Journal and Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian: A Plantation Tutor of the Old Dominion, 1773-1774.
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Title: Journal and Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian: A Plantation Tutor of the Old Dominion, 1773-1774.
Author: Philip Vickers Fithian
Editor: Hunter Dickinson Farish
Illustrator: Fritz Kredel
Release date: June 20, 2012 [eBook #40044]
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Language: English
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*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JOURNAL AND LETTERS OF PHILIP VICKERS FITHIAN: A PLANTATION TUTOR OF THE OLD DOMINION, 1773-1774. ***
Transcriber's note:
Archaic spelling and variations in spelling, punctuation and
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[Illustration: cover]
_JOURNAL & LETTERS_
OF PHILIP VICKERS FITHIAN
_Journal & Letters of_
Philip Vickers Fithian
1773-1774:
_A Plantation Tutor of the
Old Dominion_
[Illustration: logo]
EDITED, WITH AN INTRODUCTION, BY
HUNTER DICKINSON FARISH;
ILLUSTRATED BY FRITZ KREDEL
The University Press of Virginia
Charlottesville
COPYRIGHT 1957 BY COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, INCORPORATED
_Previous editions copyright 1943, 1945
by Colonial Williamsburg, Incorporated_
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Library of Congress Catalogue Card Number 57-13498
The University Press of Virginia
First printing for Dominion Books
October 1968
Fourth printing 1990
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
_Preface_
Once in a great while historians find a firsthand account that
provides striking insight into a past era. Only rarely is such a
document written with the perception and charm that make its readers
feel as if they had participated in the incidents described and shared
the experiences related. The journal and relevant correspondence of
Philip Fithian constitute this kind of source.
Fithian was reared in New Jersey and attended the College of New
Jersey in Princeton, receiving his degree in 1772. Before entering the
Presbyterian ministry, he followed the advice of President Witherspoon
of Princeton and became a tutor in the family of Robert Carter at
"Nomini Hall" plantation on the Northern Neck of Virginia. The
reactions of the somewhat austere young man to the rich, warm life of
a Virginia plantation are always instructive and often amusing. The
Carters and their seven children were a fascinating family, liberal in
their sentiments and deeply interested in books and music. Fithian
sets forth truthfully, yet with lively touches, the family's
assessments of the society in which it moved, the institution of
slavery, and the dispute developing with the mother country.
Throughout his experiences Fithian remained true to his "fair
Laura"--Elizabeth Beatty in far off New Jersey.
The journal, with certain of the letters, was first published in 1900,
in somewhat abbreviated form, by the Princeton Historical Association.
Dr. Hunter Dickinson Farish, in his edition of _The Journal and
Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian_ (Williamsburg Restoration
Historical Studies, III; Williamsburg, Va., 1943), included the
complete journal, added other relevant letters as well as Fithian's
catalogue of Carter's library, and supplied a thoughtful Introduction.
Dr. Farish was Director of Research at Colonial Williamsburg from 1937
until ill health forced him to retire in 1944. He broadened the
program there by bringing young research associates to the staff,
making grants-in-aid to scholars in the field of early American
history, and establishing and editing the Williamsburg Restoration
Historical Series. He also taught at the College of William and Mary
and helped to work out the organizational plans for the Institute of
Early American History and Culture, which since 1943 has been jointly
sponsored by Colonial Williamsburg and the College of William and
Mary.
Dr. Farish's edition of the _Journal_ had been out of print for a few
years when, in 1957, Colonial Williamsburg reissued it, with pen and
ink illustrations by Fritz Kredel designed to interest new readers.
The present edition by the University Press of Virginia reproduces the
1957 one, but in convenient paperback form. Young Fithian's revealing
picture of Virginia plantation life will always be a key source for
the historian and an absorbing human document for the general reader.
EDWARD P. ALEXANDER
Director of Interpretation
_Colonial Williamsburg
September 1967_
_Contents_
INTRODUCTION
1. Virginia During the Golden Age xiii
2. Philip Fithian and the Carter Family xxv
JOURNAL AND LETTERS OF PHILIP FITHIAN 3
APPENDIX 221
NOTES 237
INDEX 249
_CHAPTER ONE_
Virginia During The Golden Age
In the "Golden Age," or half-century immediately preceding the
American Revolution, a remarkable civilization reached its zenith in
the broad coastal plain of eastern Virginia. Gradually, during a
century of colonization and expansion, the heavily wooded tidewater
had been converted into a land of settled order and accumulated
wealth. Vast estates had been carved out of the wilderness and large
plantations were everywhere the rule.
Embraced by numerous arms of the Chesapeake and covered by a network
of wide rivers and creeks, this sylvan Venice abounded in safe and
convenient water routes. Pressing through the mouths of the deep
estuaries, the ocean tides reached the "fall-line," beyond which the
streams were inaccessible to shipping owing to the rapids. Ocean
vessels could penetrate to the plantations in every part of the
lowlands and carry cargoes thence straight to the wharves of London
and the outports. Despite the distance and rigors of the voyage, the
colonists of the Tidewater had maintained a constant intercourse with
the mother country from the time of their earliest settlement.
The hope had long persisted that this coastal plain might yield the
ores, timber, ship stores and other products England needed, and for
which she then largely depended on foreign potentates. Lacking an
ample supply of cheap labor, however, colonial industries could not
compete with well-established ones of the Old World. For well over a
century tobacco proved the one commodity which the colony could
profitably produce for the home market in large quantities.
A notable result of the method of tobacco cultivation was a rapid
depletion of the soil. Intent only upon reaping quick returns, men
customarily neglected the most ordinary precautions to preserve
fertility. Since the tobacco plant required the richest loam to
produce the leaf in its perfection, fields were usually abandoned
after three or more crops had been harvested, and "new grounds" were
cleared. Thus there developed an ever recurring need for fresh lands.
Under so wasteful a system, Virginians had soon realized the necessity
of acquiring many times the quantity of land they could cultivate at
any one time. Farseeing men, realizing a day would come when fertile
soil could no longer be had for a song, wished also to provide
sufficient elbow room for their children at a future day. The
appreciation in land values in a new country provided a further
incentive to the accumulation of large holdings. As a result,
enterprising persons everywhere competed to secure the best tracts.
Towards the close of the seventeenth century the practice of
engrossing lands gained increased momentum. African slavery was
rapidly superseding white indentured servitude as the principal source
of labor supply. The price of tobacco had steadily declined owing to
overproduction, the burdens of the Navigation Acts, and the effects of
European wars. As a result of these conditions, the margin of profit
from the leaf had so decreased that the cheaper labor of slaves and
large-scale production had now become virtually essential to economic
survival. After he had served his indentureship, the white servant
could no longer establish himself as an independent farmer as he had
once done, and the small yeoman now usually felt obliged to sell his
lands to his wealthier neighbor and either become his tenant or
migrate to some other section or colony. Political developments
likewise favored the accumulation of large estates. Through repeated
intermarriage certain families had acquired a very extensive
influence. Members of these families were active in the Governor's
Council or the House of Burgesses and held other high offices as a
matter of course. Their official position often aided them as private
individuals in acquiring lands. Through the presentation of "head
right" certificates, compensation for military services, purchase from
private proprietors, and other ways they obtained domains comprising
thousands of acres. Some carved out what resembled small
principalities. William Fitzhugh of Stafford County owned over 50,000
acres, and by 1732 Robert or "King" Carter of Lancaster County held
some 333,000 acres.
The estates of such men, far from consisting of one compact property,
generally comprised many separate and sometimes widely scattered
tracts, perhaps in half a dozen or more counties. They ranged in size
from a few hundred to thousands of acres. The individual owner
acquired his holdings over a period of years, in what often appeared a
haphazard manner. Not infrequently, a planter, foreseeing the
depletion of his Tidewater lands, engrossed large tracts in the
Piedmont and Valley sections.[1]
[1] Cf. Morton, Louis, _Robert Carter of Nomini Hall: A Virginia
Tobacco Planter of the Eighteenth Century_, pp. 62-87.
Life in the Tidewater during the Golden Age was dominated, to a
remarkable extent, by families possessing vast estates. Not everyone,
it is true, owned such princely domains as the Carters or Fitzhughs,
but men in their station were imbued with a deep sense of their
obligation to society. They sat as justices in the county courts,
served as sheriffs and as colonels of the militia in their counties,
and acted as vestrymen and church wardens in their parishes. They
accepted seriously their duty to preserve the peace and watch over the
less fortunate classes. Because of their wealth and position, their
education, resourcefulness and keen sense of public responsibility,
they were able to influence and to impress their ideals and tastes
upon the community in a measure rarely equalled by a similar
aristocracy.
The great landed proprietors operated their estates in either of two
ways or a combination of the two. They might take full responsibility
themselves, planting tobacco and secondary crops; they could lease
tracts to others to cultivate; or they might do both. Sometimes a man
leased more of his arable lands than he reserved for his own use.
Though disturbed conditions in Europe and the burdens imposed by the
British regulatory system led to repeated attempts to develop other
staples for export, tobacco continued to be the mainstay. Aside from
money crops, however, the great landowners had to supply numerous
foodstuffs and other commodities needed on their plantations.
A proprietor customarily resided on what was generally known as the
"manor plantation."[2] This seat usually served as the nerve center of
the activities of his entire estate, with the other units subordinate
to it. Not infrequently some of the outlying properties were devoted
to producing commodities needed by the manor plantation and by such
other plantations as were engaged in raising tobacco and other
marketable staples. Overseers or stewards managed the units over which
the owner found it difficult to exercise personal supervision. These
men reported to him at regular intervals to receive instructions and
give an account of their stewardship.
[2] In the issue of the _Virginia Gazette_ for May 24, 1751, Thomas
Eldridge of Prince George County advertised the sale of his "Mannor
Plantation" and three other plantations. Such references to manor
plantations appeared frequently in the _Gazette_ and in the wills of
the period.
Though the basis of life was agricultural, the great landowners
discharged a wide variety of other economic functions. They served as
factors for their neighbors, buying their crops, selling them
supplies, and providing them with credit facilities. Many sent vessels
regularly up and down the Chesapeake and the Virginia rivers,
purchasing the produce of others for later marketing. In like fashion
they brought manufactured goods from overseas for sale in the
plantation stores. When European conditions interfered with the import
trade, enterprising men frequently set up grist mills, textile
factories, foundries, and other manufactories on their plantations, to
supply their own and their neighbors' needs.
The great Tidewater proprietors of the Golden Age were, then, no
perfumed courtiers spending their days in idleness and diversion and
consciously seeking to avoid all "taint of trade." In a very real
sense they were capitalists, acute men of business, seriously
concerned with managing their estates, tilling their lands and
disposing of their produce, and eager to reap a profit through trading
with their neighbors. Their ledgers and their correspondence reveal
their energy, shrewdness, and enterprise. In a similar way the
constant stream of letters they wrote the factors who served them in
London, Bristol, and other ports of the mother country show their
vital interest in conditions in the world market.
The planters' preoccupation with such matters does not signify that
they lacked grace of living, nor that they were deficient in
aristocratic ideals. They were determined they should not revert to
barbarism in the wilderness. At no time did they allow themselves to
forget that they were inheritors of British civilization.[3] Taking
the English gentry as their model, they tried, insofar as colonial
conditions would allow, to follow the ways of the country gentlemen of
the homeland. On that pattern they fashioned their manners, their
homes, their diversions; and with a similar aim they sought to
acquire, and instruct their sons in, every branch of knowledge useful
to a gentleman.
[3] Cf. Wright, Louis B., _The First Gentlemen of Virginia_, _passim_.
That it was a constant concern of these planter-businessmen to see
that their children should acquire "polite" accomplishments is clearly
revealed in their papers. In a letter in 1718 Nathaniel Burwell of
"Carter's Grove" deplored his son's inattention to his studies, not
only because an ignorance of arithmetic would hamper him in "the
management of his own affairs," but also because, lacking a broad
basis of knowledge, he would be "unfit for any gentleman's
conversation and therefore a scandalous person and a shame to his
relations, not having one single qualification to recommend him."[4]
In a like spirit William Fitzhugh of "Bedford" in Stafford County
asserted in 1687 that his children had "better be never born than
illbred."[5]
[4] _William and Mary College Quarterly_, Vol. VII, series 1, p. 43.
[5] Stanard, Mary Newton, _Colonial Virginia_, p. 271.
Though a parent sometimes specified that his sons be taught languages,
philosophy, dancing, fencing, and other such "polite" subjects,
practical studies were not neglected. Such subjects as mathematics,
surveying, and law prepared a youth for managing the estate he would
one day inherit and for discharging the obligations to society imposed
by his position. The goal was not professional specialization, but,
rather, an education which would develop fully every side of a
gentleman's character. George Washington expressed this ideal in
referring to plans for the education of his ward, young "Jacky"
Custis, in 1771. Admitting that "a knowledge of books is the basis
upon which other knowledge is to be built," he explained that he did
not think "becoming a mere scholar is a desirable education for a
gentleman."[6] Thus, also, Robert Beverley, father of Harry Beverley
of "Hazelwood" in Caroline County, directed in his will that his son's
guardians should continue the boy's education until he should be
taught "everything necessary for a gentleman to learn."[7]
[6] Hornsby, Virginia Ruth, "Higher Education of Virginians," p. 10.
Typed M.A. Thesis, Library of the College of William and Mary.
[7] _William and Mary College Quarterly_, Vol. XX, series 1, p. 437.
Books provided a ready means of transmitting English standards of life
to the colony. The carefully selected volumes in the manor houses
clearly reveal their owners' aspiration to become "compleat
gentlemen." It was not unusual for the collection of a prosperous
planter to number as many as one or two thousand. Works providing
guidance in the mode of life they admired greatly predominated, though
works of literature were not absent. English "courtesy" and "conduct"
books were on every gentleman's shelves. Richard Allestree's _A
Gentleman's Calling_ and Henry Peacham's _The Compleat Gentleman_, and
other works which portrayed fortitude, prudence, temperance, justice,
liberality, and courtesy as cardinal virtues appear again and again in
the inventories of the period, along with the writings of Castiglione
and other Italians of an earlier day from whom English authors had
derived ideas of courtly conduct.
Most numerous were works stressing a gentleman's religious
obligations. Duty to God and Church was set forth in devotional works
of various kinds, collections of sermons, and theological treatises.
Then came books on historical subjects which offered actual examples
of men of great deeds. There were also many volumes on politics and
statecraft and military manuals, all of them useful in teaching the
larger obligations which a man of wealth owed to society. Guidance in
the practical duties of a great estate was furnished in treatises on
various phases of farming and gardening, manuals of medicine and
surgery, books on surveying and engineering, commentaries on law and
legal procedure and handbooks of architecture.[8]
[8] Cf. Wright, _First Gentlemen_, _passim_.
Naturally, the character of the schooling provided for the growing
generation greatly concerned the Virginia gentlemen. Many, eager to
give their children direct contact with the traditional learning and
culture of the mother country, sent them for a period of years to
English schools.[9] Not infrequently, mere infants were placed under
the protection of relatives and friends in the mother country. As
early as 1683 William Byrd II, then nine years old, and his sister
Susan, about six, were being watched over in English schools by their
Horsmanden grandparents, and plans were making to send over their
little sister, Ursula, aged four. Each of the great "King" Carter's
five boys was sent overseas at an early age. In 1762 John Baylor of
Caroline County, who had received his own education at Putney Grammar
School and Caius College, Cambridge, sent his twelve-year-old son to
Putney, and about the same time put his four young daughters at a
boarding school at Croyden in Kent.[10]
[9] An Englishman visiting Virginia at the close of the eighteenth
century stated, with reference to persons he met who had been educated
abroad before the Revolution, that he "found men leading secluded
lives in the woods of Virginia perfectly _au fait_ as to the literary,
dramatic, and personal gossip of London and Paris." Bernard, John,
_Retrospections of America, 1797-1811_, p. 149.
[10] Stanard, _Colonial Virginia_, p. 290.
The high value placed upon schooling in England is well illustrated in
the attitude of Robert Beverley of "Blandfield" when he prepared to
send his young son, William, abroad in 1773. Confiding the lad for a
season to a tutor in the home of his father-in-law, Landon Carter of
"Sabine Hall," he carefully explained his purpose. "I would recommend
to Mr. Menzies the Latin Lillies Grammar," he wrote Carter, "because,
as no other rudiments are used in any Schools of Eminence, when he
goes to England, he may in part have gotten over the Drudgery of
Education. All I wish to learn him in Virginia is, to read, write, &
cypher, & do as much with his Grammar, as the Time will admit
of...."[11] Planters frequently provided in their wills that their
young sons and daughters be educated abroad. It is likely that an
even larger number of small children would have been sent "home," as
the planters fondly called the mother country, had their parents not
feared the dangers of an ocean voyage and the mortal effects of the
smallpox which was raging in England during the eighteenth century.
[11] Letter of Robert Beverley to Landon Carter, Blandfield, May 19,
1772, in possession of Mrs. William Harrison Wellford of Sabine Hall.
Cf. "Extracts from Diary of Landon Carter in Richmond County,
Virginia"; _William and Mary College Quarterly_, Vol. XIII, series 1,
pp. 160-163.
As an alternative to sending children overseas, the traditional
learning of the English schools could be brought to Virginia by
English-trained tutors and governesses. Well-to-do planters
customarily engaged such persons to instruct their children at home,
even when it was planned to send the youngsters abroad later. They
also employed dancing and music masters to visit their households at
regular intervals. A building near the mansion was generally set aside
as a schoolroom. There the master's children and perhaps those of some
neighboring planters were taught. The young men and women who came
overseas to teach the children of Virginia were honored members of the
households in which they lived. Great care was taken in selecting
them. After a number of young Scotchmen had come to the colony as
tutors during the eighteenth century, it was feared they would "teach
the children the Scotch dialect which they can never wear off."[12]
Throughout the period one finds frequent mention of the need of
suitable instructors in the letters of the planters to their factors
in the mother country. After the middle of the century, tutors were
sometimes secured from Princeton and other American colleges.[13]
[12] _William and Mary College Quarterly_, Vol. XIX, series 1, p. 145.
[13] Robert Andrews, a Pennsylvania youth educated at "the College of
Phileda," served as a tutor at "Rosewell," the Page home in Gloucester
County, for several years, and two young men from Princeton taught the
Carter children at "Nomini Hall." Cf. letter of John Page, Jr., to
John Norton. "Rosewell," September 18, 1772, in Mason, Frances Norton,
_John Norton & Sons_, p. 271. See also page 160.
A goodly number of the youths sent to the English schools enrolled
later at the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge, and others who had been
educated by private tutors were also sent there. Certain families sent
generation after generation of sons to these universities. At
intervals from the time that Ralph Wormeley, the second of that name,
had matriculated at Oriel College, Oxford, in 1665, until the outbreak
of the Revolution, his kinsmen were found in English colleges. Not a
few young Virginians attended the Inns of Court.
In his domestic establishment the planter sought to reproduce as
nearly as he conveniently could the residence of the English gentry
with its gardens, lawns, and parks. Plans of English homes and
gardens, which intelligent workmen or even a layman might adapt, were
accessible in the handbooks of architecture and gardening found in
many of the planters' libraries. In some instances the striking
similarity of detail leaves little doubt that the plans for a
planter's residence derived directly from plates in these books. All
the forms common to the English country architecture of the period
were employed in the plantation residences. Sometimes English master
builders and gardeners were imported to supervise the construction of
the residences and the planting of the grounds.
The vogue for formality in English architecture and landscaping was
mirrored in the arrangement of the Virginia estates. The mansions were
generally placed according to carefully preconceived plans in a formal
setting which nonetheless managed to achieve an air of ease and
naturalness. Balance and symmetry were observed everywhere, with the
buildings, gardens, and extensive lawns forming component parts of one
composition. Walks of brick or oyster shell crossed the grounds in
geometric pattern. If a bowling green or formal garden flanked one
side of the mansion, an orangery or perhaps a park stocked with deer
flanked the other.
English box and other ornamental plants were used with fine effect.
Terraces, elaborate parterres, sunken panels, canals, and dramatic
vistas gave variety to the scene. "Falling gardens" were popular at
the residences situated on high eminences overlooking the great rivers
and marshes.[14] Not infrequently, as at "Blandfield," a ha-ha
provided a note of pleasant surprise for one walking on the lawns.[15]
Graceful garden houses, dovecots, and other miniature structures,
carefully placed, sometimes imparted a fanciful atmosphere to the
whole. Every estate had its orchard, the fruit of which surpassed the
choicest specimens of the homeland. Wildernesses or preserves of
transplanted trees might be found at some distance from the residence,
and sometimes serpentine drives and walks invited one to explore
hidden retreats.
[14] A "falling garden" consisted of a series of very broad terraces,
usually connected by ramps covered with turf, oyster shell or other
surface material to prevent erosion. In some instances the successive
levels were planted in elaborate patterns. In others the whole was
covered with turf. The "falling garden" at "Sabine Hall" retains its
eighteenth-century design intact.
[15] A ha-ha is a boundary to a garden, pleasure-ground, or park of
such a nature as not to interrupt the view from the mansion and may
not be seen until closely approached. According to a French
etymologist, the name is derived from _ha_, an exclamation of
surprise, uttered by one suddenly approaching such a boundary. The
ha-ha consists of a trench, the inner side of which is perpendicular
and faced with a wall; the outer being sloped and turfed. The ha-ha
permitted grazing cattle and sheep to appear on the landscape, and at
the same time held them at a distance from the mansion. In his diary,
George Washington refers, on several occasions, to the ha-has on the
grounds at "Mount Vernon." Cf. Fitzpatrick, John, _The Diaries of
George Washington_, Vol. II, _passim_.
Situated amidst such attractive surroundings, the residences appeared
to fine advantage. Their architectural arrangement contributed much to
their impressiveness. At the same time it was admirably suited to the
peculiar needs of plantation life. The mansion or "great house" was
but the central unit, about which, at carefully spaced intervals,
stood numerous smaller structures, all subsidiary to it. Spoken of
indiscriminately as "offices," these dependent buildings all served
some useful purpose or function in the domestic economy.
The mansion was usually a substantial two-story, rectangular building
of brick, though sometimes it was built of stone or wood. The rather
low-pitched roofs were generally shingled with cypress or slate. Since
many of the activities of the household were carried on in offices
under separate roofs, a central structure approximately seventy-five
feet long and forty-two feet wide was usually regarded as commodious.
The exteriors of these houses were often characterized by an elegant
simplicity achieved through perfection of line and proportion. The
severity of a facade might be relieved by a handsome wooden cornice, a
pedimented hood over the doorway, a string-course and water table of
molded brick, and window and door facings of rubbed brick. Sometimes
pilasters of finely molded brick framed the doorways.
Not infrequently the principal offices, set in advance or in the rear
of the mansion, served as foils to impart greater dignity to it.
Sometimes, as at "Blandfield" and "Mount Airy," the major offices were
connected with the central building by straight or curved lateral
passages. The great house and its dependent structures were generally
placed in such a relation as to form one or more rectangular
courts.[16] The principal offices were often large and contained a
number of rooms.
[16] At "Mount Vernon" the mansion and its wings together composed
three sides of an open square, the main house and its wings closing
the side opposite the open end. At "Stratford Hall" four dependent
structures formed a square court, inside of which the great house
stands. Two offices are set twenty-eight feet in advance of the main
house on the land front. On the water front two others are placed in a
similar relation to it. At "Shirley" the great house and four
principal dependent buildings form a long rectangular court, the
mansion closing the side facing the river.
To one unfamiliar with plantation life, the number and diversity of
the offices about the manor house occasioned astonishment. A Huguenot
exile who visited "Rosegill," the home of Ralph Wormeley, as early as
1686, recorded that the master's residence comprised at least twenty
structures. "When I reached his place," this Frenchman wrote, "I
thought I was entering a rather large village, but later on was told
that all of it belonged to him."[17]
[17] _A Huguenot Exile in Virginia_, ed. and tr. by Gilbert Chinard
(New York, 1934), p. 142. In writing of Maryland early in the
eighteenth century, Sir John Oldmixon said: "Both here [Maryland] and
there [Virginia] the _English_ live at large at their several
Plantations, which hinders the Increase of Towns; indeed every
Plantation, is a little Town of itself, and can subsist itself with
Provisions and Necessaries, every considerable Planter's Warehouse
being like a Shop...." Oldmixon, John, _British Empire in America_
(second edition, 1741), Vol. I, p. 339. Cf. Kimball, Fiske, _Domestic
Architecture_, _passim_.
Offices near the great house were utilized as counting-rooms,
schoolrooms, and sleeping quarters for the sons of the family as well
as for a variety of other purposes. The kitchen, wash-house, dairy,
smoke-house, and other offices intimately connected with the processes
of housekeeping were usually set farther away in order to keep the
mansion cool in summer and free it of the noise and odors of
cooking.[18]
[18] A historian who described the Virginia residences at the
beginning of the eighteenth century stated that "All their Drudgeries
of Cookery, Washing, Daries, &c. are perform'd in Offices detacht from
the Dwelling-Houses, which by this means are kept more cool and
Sweet." Cf. Beverley, Robert, _The History and Present State of
Virginia_, Book IV, p. 53.
Within the manor house the lower floors were usually devoted entirely
to social purposes. Halls and chambers were generally finely panelled
in native pine or walnut, and the symmetry of the paneling, the deeply
recessed windows, and the excellent proportion of the doors and
mantels imparted dignity and beauty to the rooms. Frequently the
effect was heightened by fine carving, and occasionally the pink or
orange tones of mantels of sienna marble lent a pleasing touch of
color.
In many of the apartments there were fine cornices, modillions, and
dentils. Delicately fluted pilasters often flanked windows and doors.
Elaborately carved cornice and mantel friezes and frets represented
the most skilled craftsmanship of the period. Sometimes, as at
"Carter's Grove," the miniature carving of the friezes was of
exquisite beauty. Motifs such as the egg and dart, the Wall of Troy,
and the Tudor rose were employed with fine effect.
In the halls ornamentation was frequently given freer scope than
elsewhere. The wide passageways which extended through the houses were
customarily broken midway by arches of fine proportions. The usual
focal point of interest in the hallways, however, was the stairs, the
sweep of which was often majestic. Carved and hidden newel posts were
common, and sometimes the pattern of the posts reappeared in elaborate
friezes below the landing. Twist-carved balusters were placed on the
steps, and running floral and foliated carving decorated the risers or
step-ends of many of the stairs.
For these homes the Virginia aristocrats imported furniture, china,
plate, and other furnishings from England and France. Their letters to
factors in the homeland were filled with descriptions of the articles
wanted, and frequently specified that items must be in the latest
London fashion. Choice pieces of walnut and mahogany, expensive
mirrors, and carpets and hangings of the best quality graced their
drawing rooms. Harpsichords, spinets, and other fine instruments stood
in many homes, and portraits of members of the family, some by the
best artists of the day, hung on their walls. In the dining rooms,
fine crystal and plate emblazoned with the family crest gleamed on
polished sideboards and tables.
Though they sometimes maintained residences at Williamsburg for the
court season, the Virginia great were rarely absentee landlords in the
sense that planters in other colonies were. Rather, they were country
gentlemen residing on their manor plantations, and, as we have seen,
seriously interested in improving their homes and domains. A family
was customarily identified by reference to its seat. "Epping Forest,"
"Marmion," "Berkeley," "Chelsea," "Elsing Green," and the other
musical names by which the homes were called, impart a romantic and
picturesque flavor to the literature of the region, and reveal the
strong hold retained over men's affections by the mother country.
Since no land in the Tidewater was cleared until it was to be
utilized for tobacco culture, and since discarded fields were allowed
to grow up in thickets, the plantation establishments were generally
located at a considerable distance from one another and separated by
heavily wooded tracts.[19]
[19] The Tidewater plantation economy had spread into the Piedmont
section prior to the American Revolution. A paroled British officer
writing of his situation in Albemarle County in 1779, said: "The house
that we reside in is situated upon an eminence, commanding a prospect
of near thirty miles around it, and the face of the country appears an
immense forest, interspersed with various plantations, four or five
miles distant from each other; on these there is a dwelling-house in
the center, with kitchens, smoke-house, and out-houses detached, and
from the various buildings, each plantation has the appearance of a
small village; at some little distance from the houses, are peach and
apple orchards, &c. and scattered over the plantations are the negroes
huts and tobacco-houses, which are large built of wood, for the cure
of that article." Cf. Anburey, Thomas, _Travels Through the Interior
Parts of America_, Vol. II, p. 187.
Set in a land abounding in excellent house sites, the planters' homes
generally stood near the bank of one of the great rivers or upon some
natural eminence. In the former case these houses had two fronts, a
land and a water entrance. The approach from the public highway
generally led through a wide avenue of trees, perhaps a mile or more
in length, or the house might be shielded from the public gaze by a
park of stately beeches or poplars. Since overland routes often
presented serious difficulties, the Virginians made highroads of their
rivers and creeks, and the side of the mansion facing the water
generally constituted its true front. This is evidenced by the fact
that one usually ascended the stairs from the water side. Isolated as
the homes were, the Virginians were able to enjoy the seclusion so
greatly prized by the gentry of the mother country, and they developed
to a high degree the hospitable and generous traits and the love of
outdoor sports that have usually characterized country squires.[20]
[20] A British observer reported in 1779 that "... before the war, the
hospitality of the country was such, that travellers always stopt at a
plantation when they wanted to refresh themselves and their horses,
where they always met with the most courteous treatment, and were
supplied with every thing gratuitously; and if any neighbouring
planters heard of any gentleman being at one of these ordinaries, they
would send a negroe with an invitation to their own house." Cf.
Anburey, _Travels Through the Interior Parts of America_, Vol. II, p.
198. This same traveller described the hospitality shown the guests at
one of the James River plantations. "I spent a few days at Colonel
Randolph's, at Tuckahoe, at whose house the usual hospitality of the
country prevailed," he wrote. "It is built on a rising ground, having
a most beautiful and commanding prospect of James River; on one side
is Tuckahoe, which being the Indian name of that creek, he named his
plantation Tuckahoe after it; his house seems to be built solely to
answer the purposes of hospitality, which being constructed in a
different manner than in most other countries; I shall describe it to
you: It is in the form of an H, and has the appearance of two houses,
joined by a large saloon; each wing has two stories, and four large
rooms on a floor; in one the family reside, and the other is reserved
solely for visitors: the saloon that unites them, is of a considerable
magnitude, and on each side are doors; the ceiling is lofty, and to
these they principally retire in the Summer, being but little
incommoded by the sun, and by the doors of each of the houses, and
those of the saloon being open, there is a constant circulation of
air; they are furnished with four sophas, two on each side, besides
chairs, and in the center there is generally a chandelier; these
saloons answer the two purposes of a cool retreat from the scorching
and sultry heat of the climate, and of an occasional ball-room. The
outhouses are detached at some distance, that the house may be open to
the air on all sides." _Ibid._, p. 208.
The constant activity that centered about the great house is clearly
reflected in the journals, letters, and account books of the day.
Through their pages may be seen the great planter-businessmen, the
members of their families, the overseers and stewards, the free white
artisans, the Negro slaves, and the indentured servants moving about
their daily tasks. The master of the plantation in a counting room
near his mansion balances accounts, writes letters to his factors in
England, or converses with the overseers and stewards from his other
plantations who have come for instructions regarding their work. The
children of the household and their tutor pass to and from the office
used as a schoolroom. A ship from the homeland touches at the
plantation landing and its captain comes ashore to bring letters and
the latest news from the mother country, and perchance to dine at the
planter's table. Visitors from neighboring plantations or from
adjoining counties arrive in sloops or in coaches or sedans. Rooms
reserved for guests are rarely empty and almost any event serves as
the excuse for a celebration. A peripatetic dancing master arrives,
the children of the neighborhood gather, and an informal dance is held
after they have been singly instructed. Even passing strangers are
accorded hospitable entertainment and treated as welcome guests. The
planter and his family frequently ride out in a coach or chair for "an
airing" or to call upon neighbors or relatives. On Sunday, if the
weather be good, he takes his family by water to attend services at
the parish church. Not infrequently a neighbor's servant arrives
bearing venison or some other delicacy for the master's table.
Countless articles are bought or taken from the plantation stores. In
the smith's shop nails and other articles are forged for plantation
use, and the chair of a neighbor is mended or his plows pointed.
Provisions are sent to the outlying plantations and supplies needed
for the home place brought from them. In buildings near the mansion,
tobacco is cured and prized. Hogsheads are rolled to the wharf to be
shipped.
Such was the nature of the world about "Nomini Hall," the manor house
of Robert Carter III in Westmoreland County, to which Philip Vickers
Fithian, a young Princeton-bred theological student, went as a tutor
to the children of the household in 1773.
CHAPTER TWO
Philip Fithian And The Carter Family
During his residence at "Nomini Hall" from October, 1773, to October,
1774, Philip Fithian recorded his impressions of the life about him in
a daily journal and in letters to relatives and friends. These
impressions constitute a detailed and illuminating account. The
civilization he described differed in many respects from that he had
known in New Jersey. His austere Presbyterian training caused him to
look with disfavor or misgiving upon many of the gay diversions and
other social customs of Virginia. Yet he was open-minded to an unusual
degree and not unsympathetic to the people among whom he lived. His
freshness of viewpoint led him to comment upon various features of
Virginia civilization which would doubtless have escaped the attention
of one more familiar with them. He admired many aspects of Southern
life and for the members of the Carter household Fithian developed a
genuine and lasting fondness. The account possesses both vivacity and
charm.
At "Nomini Hall" Philip Fithian found himself in an excellent
observation post. Robert Carter, its owner, was the scion of one of
the wealthiest and most influential Tidewater families. His
great-grandfather, John Carter, had emigrated to Virginia from England
in 1649. Acquiring some 13,500 acres in the Northern Neck, the fertile
region between the Rappahannock and Potomac rivers, John Carter had
established his home "Corotoman" on the Rappahannock in Lancaster
County. Becoming ere long a successful planter and businessman, Carter
served first as a Burgess and then as a member of the governor's
Council.
Robert or "King" Carter, son of the emigrant, so eclipsed his father
that he has usually been regarded as founder of the family in
Virginia. Bold, capable, and acquisitive, "King" Carter strove
ceaselessly to expand the family fortunes. By strict attention to
business and a close regard for his prerogatives as agent of the
Fairfaxes, the proprietors of the Northern Neck, he ultimately became
the richest and perhaps the most powerful man of his day in
Virginia.[21] First as a Burgess and then as a member and President of
the Council, he exerted a political influence that contributed greatly
to the management of his private affairs. Realizing earlier than most
the need future generations would have for fresh lands, he obtained
for his progeny altogether some 333,000 acres.
[21] Cf. Wright, Louis B., _Letters of Robert Carter, 1720-1727_ (San
Marino, 1940), p. viii.
Under the custom of primogeniture, Carter arranged that the bulk of
his lands, including "Corotoman," should go to his eldest son, John
Carter II. He, nonetheless, saw to it that his other sons, Robert,
Landon, Charles, and George should have ample estates. Robert Carter
II, however, died a few months before his father, leaving a young son,
Robert III, and a daughter, Elizabeth. A short time after "King"
Carter's death his surviving sons procured a special legislative
enactment investing the share of the estate intended for the dead son
in the young grandson. When Robert Carter III reached his majority,
therefore, he would become master of more than seventy thousand acres.
The young boy's uncles, John, Landon, and Charles Carter, acted as his
guardians. As a result of his mother's early second marriage to
Colonel John Lewis, he lived at the latter's manor plantation, "Warner
Hall" in Gloucester County. When the lad was nine, he was sent to the
College of William and Mary. Nothing further is definitely known of
how his youth was spent.
On reaching twenty-one Robert at once began preparations for a trip to
England where he remained two years. The purpose of this visit is not
known. It is probable, however, that he was following the example of
his grandfather, his father, and the other sons of "King" Carter who
had all completed their education in the mother country. Indeed the
records of the Inner Temple reveal that he was admitted to the
privileges and assumed the agreeable duties of a member of that august
legal society a few months after he arrived there.[22] Whatever his
motives, though, it is unlikely that a spirited young man, possessed
of ample means and free of parental restraint, would bury himself
entirely within musty college walls. Reports at home had it that he
spent his time in idleness and gay diversions. A portrait painted at
this time by a fashionable artist, probably in the studio of Sir
Joshua Reynolds, shows him arrayed in a fine doublet of silk and a
high lace collar, with a mask in one hand as if to indicate he was
about to hasten away to some masquerade.
[22] Cf. Jones, E. Alfred, _American Members of the Inns of Court_, p.
41.
Whatever his youthful follies may have been, Robert Carter possessed a
gentle and thoughtful nature. As he matured, he became increasingly a
serious man of business and of scholarly and cultivated tastes.
Returning to Virginia in 1751, he soon married and settled down to the
life of a country squire at "Nomini Hall," the manor house his father
had built in Westmoreland County.
On a visit to Maryland, Carter had met Frances Anne Tasker, the
sixteen-year-old daughter of one of the foremost citizens of that
colony. Struck by the beauty, good sense, and fortune of the young
girl, he had secured her consent to become his wife. Frances Tasker
Carter was an uncommon person. Notwithstanding the numerous children
she had already borne her husband when Philip Fithian entered her
household, she was still beautiful, elegant, and youthful looking. She
was also well-informed and frequently surprised Fithian with the
breadth of her interests. Ever cheerful and agreeable, she managed the
household with fine success and carefully trained her seventeen
children.
Besides a handsome dowry, Frances Tasker brought her husband a family
influence that proved of great assistance in both his public and
private career. Benjamin Tasker, her father, who had wide commercial
connections, had served for thirty-two years as a member and President
of the Council of Maryland, and for a period as acting-Governor. Her
mother, Anne Bladen Tasker, was the daughter of William Bladen who had
been successfully Secretary and Attorney-General of that colony.
Thomas Bladen, her mother's brother, a former governor of Maryland,
had removed to England and become a member of Parliament for Old
Sarum, where he was now in an excellent position to promote the
interests of his American relatives.[23]
[23] Sisters of Anne Bladen Tasker and Thomas Bladen had married
Daniel Dulany, Samuel Ogle, and Christopher Lowndes, all men of
important political and financial connections in their world.
Robert Carter led a busy life at "Nomini Hall." To utilize profitably
the resources of an estate of seventy thousand acres was a task that
demanded foresight and planning. He customarily cultivated as many as
a dozen large plantations at once, and it was necessary that the
operations on the several units be carefully integrated. Though
tobacco constituted the crop of first importance on his estate, entire
plantations were sometimes devoted to producing grain stuffs and
supplies needed at "Nomini Hall" and on the other plantations. From
time to time, too, Carter sought to develop other money crops which
might supplement the constantly dwindling profits from tobacco. The
preparation of new grounds to replace discarded fields constituted a
laborious task that had to be coped with at intervals. He set up and
equipped so many plantations that he resorted at one time to the signs
of the zodiac for names for them.
Apart from the lands he himself cultivated, Carter rented or leased a
large proportion of his estate to others. He developed an elaborate
system of tenancy reminiscent in its principal features of the modern
lien system and "share cropping." Lands were leased for varying
periods under specific agreements as to the uses to be made of them,
the provision of tools and other supplies by the landlord, and the
proportion of the crops to be paid as rent. Other tracts were leased
for a fixed money rental.
To Carter's interests as a planter and a landlord he added those of a
manufacturer. When conditions made it economical or necessary to
furnish his own supplies, he operated textile factories, salt works,
grain mills, and bakeries to fill his own and his neighbors' needs. In
his smiths's shops the simple farm implements of the time were forged
and repaired, and work was also done for near-by planters. Through his
wife's relations he received a one-fifth share in the Baltimore Iron
Works. As part owner of this firm he produced bar and pig iron in
large quantities on a commercial basis, and incidentally supplied raw
materials needed on his plantations. He also carried on extensive
operations as a merchant and factor. From his stores at "Nomini Hall,"
European manufactures and merchandise of every sort were dispensed. He
owned a number of vessels which regularly carried supplies to the
landings of other planters on the Virginia rivers and the Chesapeake
and took their produce off their hands. Sometimes he provided these
men with banking and credit facilities.
The scope of Carter's activities is indicated by the fact that at one
time his slaves numbered over 500. In addition, he employed numerous
white stewards, overseers, clerks, skilled craftsmen, and artisans. In
a labor force so numerous and diversified the most careful adjustments
in human relationships were necessary. In a very real sense Carter
acted as a protector, father, physician, and court of last resort for
all his people. No complaint was too insignificant to receive the
master's consideration.
As part of the obligations of his station, the master of "Nomini Hall"
served as a vestryman and a warden of his church in Cople Parish and
performed other public duties. At the age of twenty-eight he was made
a member of the governor's Council. His large estate made him eligible
and his wife's uncle, Thomas Bladen, supplied the influence in England
necessary to secure his appointment to this highest governing body in
the colony. By virtue of belonging to the Council he also served as a
colonel in the militia. As was customary, he was henceforth known as
Colonel or Councillor Carter. In the latter capacity, he went twice a
year to Williamsburg to advise the royal governor and to sit as a
member of the General Court. For a decade after 1762 he found it
pleasant and convenient to live at the Capital the greater part of the
time. He acquired a residence in the town and established his wife and
children there. With the outbreak of the disturbances which led to the
Revolution, however, he returned with his family to "Nomini Hall"
where he lived during the remainder of his active years, devoting his
time to the development of his estate and the promotion of his
commercial interests, the rearing of his family, and the quiet
enjoyment of his scholarly and cultivated tastes. Despite his many
duties, he spent much time in reading and in scientific investigation.
An accomplished musician, he practiced daily on some of the numerous
instruments at his home.
The social life of the family at "Nomini Hall" was of the most
agreeable sort. Situated on a hill overlooking the Potomac and Nomini
rivers, the mansion was admirably suited to the hospitable tradition
of the region. A large rectangular structure of brick, covered with
stucco, the great house was surrounded by more than thirty dependent
structures or offices and presented an attractive and imposing
appearance. The four principal offices were set off at a distance of
one hundred yards from the corners of the house, and within the
rectangle formed by these buildings was a long bowling green.
Extensive and well-tended gardens provided agreeable promenades for
members of the family and guests. One approached the mansion from the
public highway through a wide avenue of poplars which terminated in a
circle about the house. Viewed through this avenue from a distance,
Fithian asserted, "Nomini Hall" appeared "most romantic, at the same
time it does truly elegant."
The lower floor of the great house contained the master's library, a
dining room, used also as a sitting room, a dining hall for the
children, a ballroom thirty feet long, and a hallway with a fine
stairway of black walnut. The upper rooms were used as sleeping
quarters for members of the family and for guests. The older boys and
their tutor slept above-stairs in one of the large offices that was
also used as a schoolhouse. During the time Fithian was there Carter
arranged to convert one of the lower rooms of this office into a
concert or music room. Here he proposed to place the harpsichord,
harmonica, forte-piano, guitar, violin, and German flutes which were
in the great house, and to bring up for that purpose from his
Williamburg residence, the organ which had been built for him in
London according to his own specifications.
Seven of the nine surviving Carter children[24] and the Councillor's
nephew, Harry Willis, were placed under Fithian's care. Benjamin, the
eldest son, was a quiet, studious boy of eighteen. Robert Bladen, two
years younger, loved the out-of-doors and cared little for learning.
John Tasker, only four, was too young for instruction. Priscilla, the
eldest daughter, was an attractive girl of fifteen. Anne Tasker,
called Nancy, and Frances or Fanny, whom Fithian thought the "Flower
of the Family," were thirteen and eleven respectively. Betty Landon
was ten, and Harriot Lucy, a "bold, fearless, merry girl," was seven.
Sarah Fairfax, the baby, was only a few months old at the time Fithian
arrived.
[24] Four of the seventeen Carter children were born after Fithian had
left the family.
Apart from the members of the family, the tutor, and the numerous
domestics, various other persons maintained a more or less permanent
connection with the household. Among these were Miss Sally Stanhope,
the housekeeper, Mr. Randolph, who served as clerk and steward for
Carter, Mr. Christian, a peripatetic dancing master who visited most
of the great manor houses of the Northern Neck, Mr. Stadley, music
master to the children, and Mrs. Oakley, who had nursed several of
them at Williamsburg.
In no section of the colony were the great planters more numerous than
in the Northern Neck; in none did they dominate society more
completely. The families on the manor plantations associated on terms
of intimacy. Gay assemblies, dances, balls, and banquets brought them
together frequently. Dancing masters held their classes in rotation at
the great plantation houses. At these homes their pupils assembled in
turn, frequently accompanied by parents and friends. After the master
had instructed the young men and women on these occasions, an informal
dance was generally held. These families customarily congregated about
the parish church before and after services to enjoy social exchanges.
Attendance at county court provided another regular opportunity for
commingling. Boat races, barbecues, "Fish-feasts," and horse races
brought friends together at intervals. Sometimes elaborate private
entertainments were given at which music, feasting, and dancing
continued for several days. Rarely a day passed but found some guest
at the Councillor's table. Members of the Carter household constantly
exchanged visits with the plantation families of their neighborhood
and with relatives and friends in adjoining counties. They dined
frequently with the Turbervilles at "Hickory Hill," the Washingtons at
"Bushfield," the Lees at "Chantilly" and "Stratford," and with the
more distant Tayloes at "Mount Airy."
With all these persons the young Princeton tutor was familiar. He
accompanied the Carters frequently when they dined at their friends'
tables, he attended banquets and balls with them, conversed with the
people of the vicinity at the parish churches, met them at races, and
observed their conduct as guests at "Nomini Hall." The sprightly
interest with which Fithian comments upon these men and women and
their way of life makes them seem as real today as then.
For more than a century the manuscript of Fithian's journal and the
letters he wrote home remained unpublished. During that time, some
years apparently after Philip's death, his brother, Enoch, assembled
the letters and papers and the various sections of the journal kept
over a period of years and copied them in several bound volumes from
the loose and various-sized sheets upon which they were written. It is
from this transcript that the journal is known today, and the
irregularities in punctuation, spelling, and capitalization in the
form in which it has been preserved are doubtless due largely to this
fact.
The journal kept at "Nomini Hall" and a group of letters written by
Fithian during his residence there were finally published in 1900 by
the Princeton University Library, into whose custody had come seven
manuscript volumes of Fithian's papers in Enoch Fithian's hand. This
publication was edited by John Rogers Williams, a member of the
Princeton Historical Association.[25] A small part of the journal and
certain letters which the editor regarded as "of too intimate and
personal or too trivial a character" were omitted, his object being
"in general to present such as have some bearing on historic places
and personages, together with representative ones showing" Fithian's
"character and circumstances."[26] The editor, moreover, was
interested in Fithian's manuscripts primarily from the standpoint of
the tutor's association with Princeton.
[25] Some extracts from the Journal were published in the _American
Historical Review_ of January, 1900.
[26] Cf. Philip Fithian's _Journal_, edited by John Rogers Williams,
p. xiv.
In the present edition the manuscripts have been treated with special
reference to the light they throw on life in the Old Dominion. The
journal kept at "Nomini Hall" and all the letters written by Fithian
from Virginia are given in their entirety. Several letters written
after his departure from "Nomini Hall," but which relate to matters
and persons in Virginia, are now printed for the first time.
The journal and letters of Philip Fithian are so revealing of his
personality that one inevitably becomes attached to the young tutor,
and the reader today may well be curious to know his subsequent
career. Having prepared himself for the Presbyterian ministry, Fithian
left the Carter household late in 1774 despite the strong ties of
friendship and gratitude which now bound him to the family. His
decision to return to New Jersey was influenced both by a sense of
duty and his growing attachment for Elizabeth Beatty, the "fair Laura"
of his journal. In December, 1774, he was licensed to preach by the
Presbytery of Philadelphia. That winter he filled vacancies in West
Jersey and the following summer served as a Presbyterian missionary in
the Valley of Virginia and Pennsylvania. He married Elizabeth Beatty
in October, 1775. Early in 1776 he enlisted as a chaplain in the
Revolutionary forces. Shortly after the battle of White Plains he died
as the result of an attack of dysentery and exposure in camp. Though
his promise to visit the family at "Nomini Hall" again was never
fulfilled, the letters he wrote to members of the Carter household
after his departure reveal the tender regard in which all were held.
_JOURNAL & LETTERS_
OF
Philip Vickers Fithian
[ANDREW HUNTER,[27] JR., TO PHILIP VICKERS FITHIAN]
Nassau-Hall June 26th 1773.
SIR.
I expected notwithstanding your small offence you would have let me
know before this time whether you had made any determination different
from what you designed when I left you. If you design teaching before
you get into business, there are now several considerable offers made
to young men who are willing to go to Virginia by some of the first
gentlemen in the colony; one particularly who will give as good as
60£, the best accomodations, a room to study in and the advantage of a
library, a horse kept and a servant to wait upon you.
[27] Philip Vickers Fithian had left his home at Cohansie, New Jersey,
in 1770, at the age of twenty-three, to enter the College of New
Jersey at Princeton. Nassau Hall was the principal structure of the
college, and the institution was often familiarly referred to by that
name. Fithian was graduated there in September 1772. His parents had
both died suddenly during the previous February. Andrew Hunter, Jr.,
of Cohansie, who wrote this letter, was the nephew of the Reverend
Andrew Hunter, Sr., of Greenwich, New Jersey, under whom Philip was at
this time studying Hebrew in connection with his preparation for the
ministry.
Dr Witherspoon[28] is very fond of getting a person to send him. I
make no kind of doubt but if you were to write to the doctor but he
would engage it to you, the terms are exactly as I write you as I have
informed myself that I might let you know--
[28] Dr. John Witherspoon (1723-1794), a Scottish Presbyterian
clergyman, served as president of the College of New Jersey at
Princeton intermittently from 1768 until his death in 1794. A staunch
Calvinist, Witherspoon exerted a strong influence on American
educational, religious, and political development. Owing largely to
the labors of his former students, a number of whom went as clergymen
and tutors to the Southern colonies, his influence was very extensive
in that region.
There are a number of our friends and class-mates getting into
business as fast as possible, whether they are called or not I cannot
pretend to judge, this much I would say that I think it is not any
ones duty to run too fast. No less than four Debow, Reese, McCorkle,
Allen, under trials by a presbytery, and Bryan[29] trying to get
license to plead law in some of the best courts on the continent, if
infamy were law or lies were Gospel he might get license either to
plead or preach.
[29] John Debow, Oliver Reese, Samuel McCorkle and Moses Allen, and
Andrew Bryan. With the exception of Andrew Bryan of Baltimore who was
admitted to the bar, all of these young men were licensed as
Presbyterian ministers.
We have had the pleasure of Laura's[30] company here for some weeks
past, I hope you will not envy us considering that continual pleasure
is too much for such mortals as we to bear.
[30] Elizabeth Beatty, Fithian's "Laura," frequently visited in the
home of her brother, Dr. John Beatty, who lived at Princeton. Fithian
had known Elizabeth earlier in the home of her sister, the wife of the
Reverend Enoch Green, a Presbyterian minister of Deerfield, New
Jersey, under whom he had prepared for college. Cf. Williams, John,
ed., _The Journals and Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1767-1774_,
p. 55, fn. 3.
I beg that you may no longer refrain from writing, as I should be very
glad to hear many things from you and other of my friends in Cohansie
which you can relate with little trouble. If you have been trying with
me who could keep from writing longest, I own fairly beat. The number
of our students are considerably increased, and our school consists of
thirty-nine--I have heard there are some disagreeable stories going
through your country I wish you would let me know something about
them. Doctr Ward spent part of yesterday with me in his return.
My love to Mr and Mrs Green.
I am, Sir,
Your very friend,
ANDW HUNTER.
[JOURNAL]
_July 1. [1773]_
Rose at five. Read in the greek Testament, the third Chapter of the
Acts. Breakfasted at seven. Busy the greater part of this Day in
coppying off some loose miscellanous Pieces. P. M. Read the Spectator
in my Course. Received in the Evening, by the Stage, a Letter from Mr
and: Hunter jur In which he invites me to remove, & accept a School,
of very considerable Consequence, in Virginia. He also informs me that
four of our Class-Mates, are on Trial, under a Presbytery, for
Preachers; & one has applied for Licence to plead Law in Maryland;
Poor Boys! hard they push to be in the midst of Tumult, & Labour.
[PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ANDREW HUNTER, JR.]
Deerfield July 3. 1773.
SIR
I am sorry you impute neglect of writing in me to so wrong a cause, as
an old trivial offense, I confess that I am to blame, and am willing
to stand reproved by you, for having been so long silent. If I should
offer any thing in excuse it would be great hurry arising from the
duty of my station, on which account I have wrote only two or three
letters since you left us. The school in town, which I had in view, as
I make no doubt you know, is now occupied by Mr _Lynn_. And the terms
of the school at _Blandensburg_ are I think too low, to divert me from
the course of my business. I would not however forego a good offer in
a school abroad, for some short time. What you write concerning the
offer of a Gentleman in Virginia, is, I think of considerable
consequence, provided the conditions of teaching are not over
burdensome; I should speedily agree to go and apply for the place,
were I made satisfied as to this.
I shall however, beg the assistance of your friendship, to enquire in
what county the school is; what number and degrees of scholars there
are; and if you think the place suitable, and if the Docter shall
think proper to appoint me to it, I am not unwilling to remove and
accept it. Please to mention this to the Docter; and if he has not
engaged a teacher, and is pleased to accept me, I hope you will
acquaint me as speedily as may be, with what you can learn as to the
time of beginning, the custom of the school, &c. You mentioned four in
your last, who have applied to Presbytery, and are on tryal, I can
tell you another, Mr Heith; he applied to the Philadelphia Presbytery;
but came to town, I understood so late, that before he made
application the Presbytery was dissolved, some of the Members however,
being still in town, at his request, gave him sundry pieces of
exercise, which it is expected the Presbytery will acknowledge, so
that he is the fifth out of our class who is designing soon to appear
in public!
I am Sir yours, &c.
PHILIP. V. FITHIAN
[JOURNAL]
_Fryday july 30._
Rose pretty early. Breakfasted with Mrs _Buck_. Wrote a Note, after
Breakfast to Holinshead. Soon after which, I set out for Home, & by
the favour of a young man who lodges at Mr Bucks I rode to the Ferry,
& was home by eleven.
Received several Letters by the Stage to Day; One especially from Mr
Hunter, in which I am pressed to accept the proposal by the Gentleman
in Virginia. The Offer is very proffitable; Colonel _Carter_ has four
Sons. To a private Tutor for which he proposes to give sixty-five
Pounds pr Year; find him all Accomodations; Allow him a Room for his
own Study; And the Use of an eligant Library of Books; A Horse to
ride; & a Servant to Wait. I am inclined to go, but dont meet with
much Encouragement from those who have the Direction of my Studies.
We had Company in the Afternoon; & expected Miss _Grimes_, & Miss
Ewing, til Evening, but they never came.
_Saturday july 31._
Rose early. After Breakfast rode to Deerfield, & consulted with Mr
Green[31] but he gives only his usual Indifference; Dined at Mr
_Nathan Leeks_, the Day excessive hot; Drank Tea at Mrs _Pecks_.[32] &
returned in the Evening to Greenwich.
[31] The Reverend Enoch Green.
[32] Mrs. Peck was the mother of Fithian's friend, John Peck of
Deerfield. The two boys had studied together under the Reverend Enoch
Green, and had later been classmates at Princeton. John Peck succeeded
Fithian as tutor of the Carter children at Nomini Hall in 1774, and
later married Anne Tasker or "Nancy" Carter, and settled in Richmond
County, Virginia.
_Sunday. August 1:_
Rose pretty early. Attended the Funeral of Mr _Hugh Stethern_. who
died yesterday morning. Many are now ill of what is called the _Fall
Fever_.
Mr _Hunter_[33] preached both Parts of the Day.
[33] The Reverend Andrew Hunter.
_Monday August 2._
Concluded, this Day, with the Concurrence of Mr _Hunter_, to set of
for Princeton, & know of Dr Witherspoon something more particular
concerning the Proposal for my going to _Virginia_. Busy all the
Afternoon in preparing to go.--Evening very hot. Went on foot to the
Stage.--Drank a Bowl of Punch with Mr _Richard_ Howel, & to bed by
ten.
_Monday August 9_
Waited on Dr Witherspoon, about nine o Clock, to hear his Proposal for
my going to _Virginia_--He read me a Letter which he receivd from Col:
Carter, & proposed the following Terms--To teach his Children, five
Daughters, & three Sons, who are from five to seventeen years Old--The
young Ladies are to be taught the English Language. And the Boys are
to study the English Language carefully; & to be instructed in the
Latin, & Greek--And he proposes to give thirty five Pounds Sterling,
which is about Sixty Pounds currency; Provide all Accommodations;
Allow him the undisturbed Use of a Room; And the Use of his own
Library; find Provender for a Horse; & a Servant to Wait--
[Illustration: Man in nightcap?]
--By the Advice of the Dr & his Recommendation of the Gentleman, & the
Place, I accepted the Offer, & agreed to go in the Fall into
_Virginia_--
I took this morning, from Dr Wiggins, a Balsam that has removed the
Pain wholly from my Breast; he called it the Balsam of _Cappewee_.
Probably I spell it Wrong.
_Teusday August 17._
Rose at seven--Very much fatigued with yesterdays Ride--Found the
Students well; & the Seniors in particular In high Spirits on their
Expectation of speedy Liberty--I begin to grow sick of my Virginia
Voyage; But sick or sorry I must away--I waited on the Dr, But he has
yet received no Intelligence.
After Evening-Prayrs, by particular Requests, I attended in the
respectful Whigg-Society[34]--The Members are Orderly--Their
Exercises are well chosen--And generally well-conducted; & as to
speaking, & Composition well-performed--
[34] The American Whig Society and the Cliosophic Society were rival
literary organizations at the College of New Jersey at Princeton.
They conferrd Degrees formally on Six who are to be graduated in the
College the ensuing Commencement. The Moderator for the Time being
confers the Degree; The Formula is short & eligant, & pronounced in
latin--They give also Diploma's, in Latin likewise, which are plain &
full.
Expence of this Day.
For the Hire of our Carriage 10s.
For a Bowl of Punch 1s/6d
For a Glass of Bitters 4d Sum 11s 10d.
[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]
Prince-ton. August 17th: 1773.
TO LAURA.
If I could only tell you the Incidents of Yesterday, you would laugh
as loud & as cordially as ever--Smith did all the Oddities of Miss
Cateness.
I was, & for my Life, could not avoid, being dumpish & melancholy, in
the midst of Humour & Pleasantry--Smith[35] was in great Distress on
Account of his approaching Examination; He is in the Senior-Class, &
that Class is to be examined for their Degree tomorrow, so that he too
was sour all Day.--Directly opposite to both was your Brother; he was
noisy, & troublesome; We dined at Mr Irwin's. Your Brother kindly rode
with us to the Ferry, where we parted; he for Mr McConkey's; We for
Princeton. I am to day happy as Amusements & good-Company, in this
lovely Habitation of the Muses, can render me.
[35] William R. Smith, who was one of Fithian's classmates, was
afterwards ordained as a Presbyterian minister. Cf. Williams, ed.,
_Fithian_, p. 34, fn. 2.
There is yet, among my Acquaintances, a young Lady; & She is also, I
firmly believe, one of your most agreeable Intimates, whose Friendship
I think so valuable, & whose Manner every Way, is so peculiarly
engaging, that if you should soon see her, whom you have sometimes
heard me call Laura, give my Duty, my Love to her, & acquaint her with
what I have often told you of her, that She is, in my undisguised
Oppinion, "A Pattern for Female Excellence."
Tell her also, that a singular, & very important Occurrence, which
has lately presented itself to me, seems to make it necessary, if it
be any how agreeable to her, She should in some Way, chosen by
Herself, signify to you that I may thereby know, whether She favours
or dislikes what I have told her.
I assure you, Madam, so strong is the Esteem I have for that dear
Girl, which certainly I shall ever retain, that neither, Place, nor
Time, nor any Alteration in my Condition of Life, will blot it out.
This, however, I intrust only to you, & put so great Confidence in the
many Expressions of your Friendship for me, that I hope you will use
your Influence to persuade her that what I write is Truth.
I expect to leave Deerfield[36] & go Home next Week; But I am not
determined yet upon going to Virginia. Dr Witherspoon desires &
advises me to go--My Directors here seem backward, & rather
unwilling.--I myself Am yet in doubt--But, on the Whole, it is
probable I shall go down in October. But whether I do the one or the
other I am always
Yours,
PHILIP. V FITHIAN.
[36] Fithian was studying theology in Deerfield under the supervision
of the Reverend Enoch Green, at the same time he was being taught
Hebrew by Andrew Hunter, Sr., in nearby Greenwich.
[JOURNAL]
_Monday August 30._
Rose by half after six--Wrote a Letter to Dr Witherspoon concerning my
going to Virginia--I hear that many of my Friends in this Place are
unwilling I should go--I am indeed in a Dilimma--But I have
agreed--Well, I must away--And I hope in the Kindness of him who was
my Fathers God, & has been the Guide of my Youth, that he will save me
from being corrupted, or carried away with the Vices which prevail in
that Country--Wrote a Letter to And: Hunter--In the Evening, rode with
my Letters, to the Stage--Saw there by Chance, the famous Miss _Betsy
Elmore_: famous for _Wit_, Extensive Knowledge, but especially for
_Volubility of Tongue_--
[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO DR. WITHERSPOON]
Greenwich august 30th 1773.
_Revd Sir._
I am sorry that I may inform you of the dissattisfaction which my
friends in general since my return home seem to discover, with my
intention of going this fall to _Virginia_. However willing I am
myself to accept the proposal and go, it will not be easy to break
through the entreaties of those who are my neares[t] relations, and
who have all along, with the warmest friendship interested themselves
to procure my welfare. I do not intend by any means, abruptly to
decline the fulfilling my agreement, but only desire to know, if there
are not some to be found among the late Seniors who would willingly
discharge me by accepting the offer themselves. If not I have only
further to beg, that you would be pleased, Revd Sir, to favour me with
the proposal of the gentleman; and so soon as there is a return from
him, I shall be glad to know the time when I must leave home;
I am Revd Sir,
with great respect
your humble Servt
PHILIP V. FITHIAN
P. S. Letters come safe sent by the princeton stage, and directed to
me at Greenwich.
[PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]
Princeton. August 31. 1773.
TO LAURA.
As an old Sinner, who has been long accustomed to Mishief, cannot bear
to think of quitting his much-loved Practice; so I, from Time to Time,
with few Returns, am intruding my Epistles upon you.
I have just been reading Yorrick's celebrated Letters to Eliza: They
are familiar--They are plain--They are beautiful. I love Eliza, from
the admirable Description he has given of her: But possibly he has
been wholly romantic; & only painted the Woman he could love; or, if
has given his own candid Sentiments, & described that Woman in Truth;
There is in America an Eliza I would venture, from Yorricks own
Picture, to set against it; & let Yorrick himself be Judge, should I
venture never so largely, I am sure I should succeed--
I was, yesterday, at Deerfield, & heard News enough--I was told that a
civil, good looking Gentleman; who had been lately from N--n, told
them he saw me there with you--That I was wild, & noisy--He thinks I
shall make a damn'd droll Figure in a Pulpit, with Powdered-Hair; a
long Cue; & deep Ruffles!--I fancy myself it would appear odd!--I was
told there also every Circumstance of our Ride from Princeton to N--n.
Of my being with your Brother in Philadelphia as I went up, &
returned--Of almost the whole of my Company & Conduct while in Town.
It is something curious, tho' by no Means troublesome, that every part
of my Behaviour, is in whatever Place I go, so circumstantially
inspected.--I shall suppress all I heard of you, only that you are
soon to be married, & I should not have mentioned this, but that I
might let you know it was told in Triumph to dash me!--Yet if it had
wounded my Soul I would have sustained & concealed the Pain, to
outbrave such Insolence! I cannot help, however, when I am alone in my
Chamber, reflecting on the Danger of the Impropriety I may possibly be
guilty of in thus continuing my Intimacy with you.
But I turn it all off with a Smile, &, if the Report be true, with a
Wish, in the Language of the Poet Walter to a Lady of his Acquaintance
"That you may possess all your Wishes, as to earthly Happiness &
Comfort, in the Society of him whom you have preferr'd to the rest of
Men; & that you may feel as much for him, of that Anxiety which arises
from Esteem, as others have felt for you"--I am going, next Month to
Virginia, unless the Remonstrances of my Relations prevail with me to
decline it.
But on I go little thinking how much I may incur your Censure by
writing so freely, & so long--O Laura, I wish most ardently, that I
could with Propriety, from the present Moment, spend all my hours near
your Person.--They would then, with their purple Wings, fly along
through the Sorrows, & Tumults of Life, wholly unnoticed.
Laura, yours
PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.
[ANDREW HUNTER TO PHILIP FITHIAN]
Nassau Hall Septr 6th 1773
DR SIR.
I am very sorry that I cannot answer your letter so much to your
satisfaction as I could desire. Doctor Witherspoon is gone to
New-England to the convention and is not expected home 'till the
latter end of this week--he received no account from Virginia before
he went from home. You may trust that I will let you know when ever I
can hear any thing related to your prospect of going to the southward.
Mr Imlay[37] is gone from College and is not expected back 'till near
commencement, however I have talked with some of his acquaintances,
and they say he expects to go.
[37] William Eugene Imlay was graduated at Princeton in 1773. Cf.
Williams, ed., _Fithian_, p. 41.
I would have the spelling of your name corrected, but the catalogue is
sent off, and I suppose by this time is in the press. I must thank you
for the good news you give me concerning the young lady's health.
I was very uneasy about the account we heard before you left
princeton.
We go on pretty well in College, but I hope we shall have two or three
of the _possessed swine_ turned off when the Doctor comes home.
Do write me every week and give what news you can.
I am, Sir,
Your friend.
ANDW HUNTER.
[JOURNAL]
_Wednesday Sept: 8._
Received a Letter from Mr Hunter--No News from Princeton--Nor
Virginia--Evening Mr Paterson came home with Uncle.[38]
[38] Probably Samuel Fithian, the brother of Philip's father. Philip
refers to him as "Uncle Fithian" on other occasions.
* * * * *
[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]
Greenwich. Sept: 10th: 1773.
TO LAURA.
I hope the World is using you very well, & that you enjoy yourself in
Contentment; & the Society of your Friends with Pleasure. The Reason
of my saying this, is, because many People here are often enquiring
about you; Where you live? How you do? When you will return? The Cause
of your Absence?--And forty other things that none knows, or ought to
speak of, but yourself.
You inform me that you propose to be at the approaching Commencement:
It will not be in my Power, with any Convenience, to go--I can,
however, give you a Caution; Let not Pity so much affect you, nor Fear
so much alarm you, as again, (you remember last Fall) to excite Tears
in your Eyes, or one sorrowful Ake in your Breast, if any of Nassau's
bold Sons shall attempt once more, to support their Right by
suppressing Impertinence & Violence.
There are many going from Philada &, I am told, some Ladies of Note &
Eminence--There are many expected from the Southern Colonies--And,
because of the Connexions, many from York, & the New-England
Goverments. The Assembly, no Doubt, will be large, & splendid--And I
hope the Exercises may be worthy their Attention & Approbation.
Nothing hinders my being there but only my Purpose of going soon to
the Southward.
I may not omitt telling you that--Smith as we were returning Home,
pitied you from his Heart; An agreeable, & sensible young Lady,
separated from genteel Society, & prisoned in a Room in the Woods, in
the Midst of an unpleasant Country, like a penitent Virgin conscious
of her Sins, voluntarily retiring to a lonely Monastary!--But he
forgot, Laura, that infelt Peace, makes us always happy, even tho' our
Circumstances be apparently distressful.
I am, Eliza,
yours PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.
[JOURNAL]
_Wednesday. Sept: 15._
Rose at seven; slept but little for I was affraid--Breakfasted on
Oysters, at the Ferry-Mans, with John Holmes, Esq:--Had an Hours
Conversation with him, on Lotteries--Whether they are just &
lawful--He thinks not--At ten we came up to his Brother Benjamin
Holmes's Esq:--They mentioned to me an Intention they have to erect, &
establish a School, among them, that their Children may be taught,
Latin, Greek, & the Practical Branches in Mathematicks--They desired
to know if it would be convenient, & agreeable for me to undertake
with them, to prosecute their Plan. But I must, with Doubt, away to
_Virginia_--It would be a laudable undertaking if such a School could
be founded in this Part of our Province; & I think ought to be duely
encouraged--
I left Mr Holmes's about twelve, & came to Mr Hunters about four,
seventeen Miles--Evening walked Home. Expence 2s/0.
_Sunday. Sept: 19._
Rose half after six--Read some in Pictete--Walked to Sermon by ten;
Smith Rode in order to go home with Mr Hunter after Sermon--Dr Ward
seems very low, confined commonly to his Bed; the Disorder it is to be
feared is a Consumption, & increases in malignity almost daily--How
much will Cohansie feel his Death if by this Illness he is soon taken
of, or by the Violence of it wholly disabled to practice among us, who
has been so long successful in his Work! Received a Letter late last
Night from Mr Hunter at College, and He informs me that the Dr insists
on my Going to Virginia--
* * * * *
[WILLIAM R. SMITH TO PHILIP FITHIAN]
Philadelphia Octr 3d 1773.
FUTURUS PEDEGOG'ISSIMUS.
Fe-O-whiraw, whiraw, hi, fal, lal fal, lal de lal dal a fine
song--commencement is over whiraw I say again whiraw, whiraw.
And what is more never was there such a commencement at princeton
before and most likely never will be again. The galeries were cracking
every now and then all day--every mouse hole in the church was cram'd
full--The stage covered with Gentlemen and ladies amongst whom was the
Governor and his lady; and that he might not appear singular Lee[39]
was stiff with lace, gold-lace--
[39] Henry Lee (1729-1787) of "Leesylvania," in Prince William County,
Virginia (known later as "Light Horse Harry" Lee) was a student at
Princeton at this time. He was a brother of "Squire" Richard Lee of
"Lee Hall" in Westmoreland County. Henry Lee later became the father
of Robert E. Lee.
A band of music from Philadelphia assisted to make all agreeable and
to crown the whole the eloquence of Demosthenes was heared in almost
every mans mouth, so that the person who spoke last was always the
hero of the tale--O murder! what shall I do I want to say a great deal
to you but cannot for the girls who are almost distracting my heart--O
murder! murder, murder I say what will become of me, murder, murder--I
shall go distracted--I saw Dr Beaty[40] and Betsy--I gave your love to
them--and indeed to tell you the truth I could not for my life help
leaving my own heart, and love, and all with Besy--she is realy a
sweet soul. I wish ten millions and she were mine, I should be a happy
creature, happy indeed to the last degree--. I got cleverly up from
cohansie early in the evening--My love ten thousand times and ten
thousand kisses to all the girls of my acquaintance.
[40] Dr. John Beatty had been graduated at the College of New Jersey
in 1769. Cf. Williams, ed., _Fithian_, p. 90, fn. 1.
I cannot quit but must
WILLM R. SMITH.
[JOURNAL]
_Wednesday. Octob. 6._
Walked with _Paterson_, after Breakfast to Mr _Hunters_, where we met
with Mr _Smith_, & Mr _Irwin_ two young Clergimen, & Mr Hunter Junr.
They came down yesterday, & inform that the Commencement was the most
splendid, & honoured with the greatest Number of Strangers of any one,
perhaps, since it was founded, May it still increase, & long
flourish!--Immediately after Dinner _Smith_ & _Irwin_ set off for
_Cape-May_--Andrew brings me Word that I must by the twentieth of this
Month meet Mr _Imlay_ in New-Castle, who is going down into Virginia.
And I must at last, away--The thought is indeed hard!
_Thursday Octob: 7._
Slept but little last Night; my Mind seems troubled and involuntarily
disturbs me! Rose early--After Breakfast rode to Deerfield. Settled
all my Affairs, & took a formal, final Leave of my Friends, &
Relations there! Rode home in the Evening. By the State I received a
Letter from Mr _McCalla_,[41] with a Suit of _Cloths_. Cost £6/16/6.
Expence in the Evening for a Bowl of _Punch_ 1/6--
[41] John McCalla, Jr., was a friend of Fithian who lived in
Philadelphia.
_Fryday Octob: 8._
To Day is the Fast before our Sacrament--O that the mighty God would
teach me true Humiliation for my many Sin's, & give me Grace that
shall enable me to hate & forsake them!--Grace to keep me right in the
Path of Life, & to guide me to his heavenly Kingdom.--Mr Hunter
preached two useful Sermons, describing worthy, & unworthy
Communicants--
_Saturday October 9._
Rode to the _Bridge_, & bought a Saddle, Bridle, Spurrs, &c. for my
intended Journey--Returned before Evening, & of Saml Dennis bought a
Pr of Sadle-Bags.--
[Illustration: Lone rider on horse]
_Monday Octob: 11._
By Six up--Busy in Preparing for my Journey--Agreed with Uncle for his
Horse; I am to give him 25£.--The Money to be paid in May next.
_Teusday October 12._
Rose early; very busy--Had my Boots altered & mended--Was measured for
a Surtout-Coat--Drew up a Form to settle my Affairs before I leave
Home--Afternoon Mrs Peck, Mrs Hoshel, Johnny Peck, Stephen Ranney,
Miss Abby Peck call to see me & take a final Adieu for the
present--The Thought of Leaving Home haunts me at Times!
_Wednesday Octob: 13._
Dismissed Study, & begin to take Leave of Relations & Friends!--
Dined at Mrs Brewsters, and at two went to Mr Danl Mashells; & from
thence to Mr John Gibbon's, At all which Places I gave them my last
_Farewel_--
_Thursday Octob: 14._
Rose early--Busy in making Preparations--Had my Horse shod, Did sundry
Pieces of Writing--This Eveng Mr _Irwin_, & Smith returned from
Cape-May.
_Friday Octob: 15._
Rose early--Did sundry Pieces of Writing--At twelve Mr Irwin gave us a
Sermon, on Felix's trembling before Paul preaching--He preached
without Notes; His Sermon was easy, well-digested, plain, yet
pathetic, short, and in general much admired--
Mr Smith & Mr Hunter junr dined with me--In the Evening of this Day I
had a severe Fit of the Fever & Ague--Violent Pains in my Head, &
Back!
_Saturday. Octob: 16._
Rose at seven; feel bewildered, & unesy--Finished some necessary
Writings, & begin before noon to grow better.
_Sunday Octob: 17._
Rose early--Not well--Attended Sermon; Mr Smith preached--Before the
last Sermon was done I was obliged to come Home with my second fit of
the Fever & Ague. It kept on me violently while about seven in the
Evening; then went off in a gentle Sweat!--
_Monday Octob: 18._
My Fit is well gone off, & I feel bravely--Finished & executed some
Writings to Joel Fithian[42] for the Securing the Several Porttions to
the Children--Took my Leave of Mr _Wallings_, & Mr Ewings Families. Mr
Paterson in to see me in the Evening--In the Night we had a fine
Shower--I have through this Day taken the Peruvian Bark, to try if by
any Means I can break my Fits.
[42] Joel Fithian was the cousin of Philip Fithian, who married
Elizabeth Beatty Fithian after the latter's death. Cf. Williams, ed.,
_Fithian_, p. xv.
_Teusday Octob: 19_
Early went to Mr Hunters; took my Leave & left them by eleven--Rode &
took Leave of all my Relations--How hard is it at last? My Heart
misgives, is reluctant, in spite of me; But I must away!
Protect me, merciful Heaven, & keep me under the Wing of thy
over-ruling Providence--Make me know myself, & my constant, &
necessary Dependance on thee!
The Continuation of my Journal, &c.
_Wednesday October 20th 1773._
Left Greenwich by six in the Morning. Rode to Michael Hoshels 8 Miles.
Thence Mr Hoshel, & John Peck along, rode to Quintons-Bridge 8 Miles.
Expence there is 1s/: Rode thence to Penn's-Neck Ferry by two oClock
10 Miles. Expence at Toll-Bridge /2. Ferriage over Delaware 4s/6d.
Oats & Cordial in New-Castle 1s/2d. Rode thence to Mr Achans Tavern 12
Miles. Whole Distance 38 Miles. Whole Expence 6/10.
_Octob: 21._
Expence at Mr Achans 3s/4d. Rode thence to North-East 12 Miles.
Breakfast 1s/6d. Thence to Sesquehannah 10 Miles. Ferriage 1s/: Oats
/9d. At Bush-Town by 4 o Clock 12 Miles. Whole Distance 34 Miles.
Whole Expence 6s/7d.
_Fryday 22d_
Expence at Bush-Town _4/2_. Rode thence to a small, mean Tavern to
Breakfast, 13 Miles--Expence _1/6_. Thence to Baltimore by one O-Clock
13 Miles. Whole distance 26 Miles--Whole Expence _5/8_.
_Saturday 23d_
Expence at Baltimore _15/3_. Rode and forded Petapsko[43] to a small
Tavern 15 Miles. Expence _1/11_. Rode thence to Blandensburg 23 Miles.
Whole distance 38 Miles. Whole Expence _17/2_.
[43] Patapsco River.
_Sunday 24._
Expence at Blandensburg _5/7_.[44] Rode thence to Georgetown[45] 8
_Miles_. Expence _1/6_. Ferriage _/6_.--From thence we rode by
_Alexandria_,[46] 9 Miles--Thence to Colchester[47] 18 Miles--
Dined--Expence _3/9_. Ferriage _/6_. Rode thence to Dumfries 10
Miles.[48] Whole distance 45 Miles. Whole Expence _11/4_.
[44] Bladensburg, Maryland.
[45] Georgetown, then a small town in Maryland, was later incorporated
in the District of Columbia.
[46] Alexandria, Virginia.
[47] Colchester was a thriving shipping center on the Occoquan River,
now called Occoquan Creek, in Fairfax County, Virginia, near where
this creek empties into the Potomac. The town had been incorporated by
an act of the Assembly in 1753 to promote "trade and navigation."
[48] Dumfries, a town on Quantico Creek, had been settled by a group
of Scotch merchants, who traded in the colony. Quantico Creek empties
into the Potomac. Dumfries had been incorporated by Act of Assembly in
1749. The town had prospered owing to its advantageous position as a
center of trade in the western section of the Northern Neck.
_Monday 25._
Expence at Dumfries _4/5_. Rode thence to Aquia 10 Miles.[49] Expence
_2/4_--Rode thence to Stafford-Court-House 12 Miles.[50] Whole
Distance 22 Miles. Whole Expence _6/6_.
[49] Aquia had originated as a Catholic settlement on Aquia Creek
about the middle of the eighteenth century. A short distance from the
town were located the celebrated Aquia stone quarries which had been
opened as early as 1683.
[50] Stafford Court House, the seat of government of Stafford County.
_Teusday 26._
Expence at Stafford _5/._ Stopped at Colonel Thomas Lees,[51] only a
few Rods from Stafford Tavern. Continued there all day, and the
following Night. Expence to Day _5/_.
[51] Thomas Ludwell Lee (1730-1778) of "Bellevue" in Stafford County
was the fourth son of Thomas Lee of "Stratford" in Westmoreland
County, who had served as president of the Council of Virginia.
_Wednesday 27._
Expence to boy _1/_. Rode from Mr Lees to a small poor Ordinary 13
Miles--Expence _/8_ for Oats--Rode thence, without feeding to Captain
Cheltons.[52] on the Potowmack 32 Miles--Whole Distance 45 Miles.
Whole Expence _1/9_.
[52] The Chilton family owned plantations in Westmoreland and Fauquier
Counties. Cf. _William and Mary College Quarterly_, second series,
Vol. 10 (January 1930), pp. 56-63.
_Thursday 28._
Rode after Breakfast to the Honorable Rob: Carters the End of my
Journey; 12 Miles, by two o-Clock in the Afternoon. Both Myself, and
my Horse seem neither tired nor Dispirited--Occasional Expences on the
Road. In Baltimore for some _Buff-Ball, 1/6_. In Blandensburg for
having straps put to my Saddle-Bags _3/_. In Colchester for Shaving
and Dressing _1/3_. The whole _5/9_. So that my whole Distance appears
to be _260 Miles_, perform'd in seven Days. And my whole Expence
appears to be 3£ 6s 6d.
_Fryday 29._
Settled myself in the Room appointed me--and adjusted my Affairs after
my Ride.
_Saturday 30._
Rode with Mr Carters eldest Son[53] to a Store, about seven
Miles--Bought half a Box of Wafers for 1/--And a quire of paper for
_1/6_. Dined at three--And rode into Richmond Parish 15 Miles to Mr
Fantleroys[54]--Was introduced to Mr Fantleroy--two of his Sons--Mr
Christian[55] a dancing a dancing-Master--
[53] Benjamin Tasker Carter.
[54] The Fauntleroy family owned extensive holdings and occupied a
high social position in Richmond County and other sections of the
Tidewater. "Mars Hill" and "Crandall" were two seats of the family on
the Rappahannock River in Richmond County, and in the vicinity of the
modern towns of Warsaw and Tappahannock. A third manor plantation of
the Fauntleroys' was "The Cliffs," also on the Rappahannock, some
miles north of the other two. The name of the family was pronounced
variously as "Fantleroy," "Fantilroy" and "Fauntleroy." Aphia, Samuel
and Henry or "Harry" Fauntleroy were the daughter and sons of Moore
Fauntleroy (1716-1791) of "The Cliffs." Information supplied by Miss
Juliet Fauntleroy of Altavista, Virginia.
[55] Francis Christian held his dancing classes in rotation in a
number of the manor houses of the Northern Neck at this period. After
the pupils had been instructed an informal dance was usually enjoyed
on such occasions.
_Sunday 31._
Rode to Church six Miles[56]--Heard Mr Gibbern[57] preach on Felixes
trembling at Pauls Sermon.
[56] Nomini Church, one of the two Anglican houses of worship in Cople
Parish, stood on the bank of the Nomini River some five miles from
Carter's home.
[57] Isaac William Giberne, an English clergyman, thought to have been
a nephew of the Bishop of Durham, was licensed to preach in Virginia
in 1758. The following year he had arrived in the colony and was
serving as the minister in Hanover Parish in King George County.
Possessing a high tempered and somewhat contentious nature, Giberne
was involved in numerous sharp controversies. An exceptionally
sociable and convivial man, he spent much of his time in visiting and
gambling and tippling. Admitted by his enemies at that time to be the
most popular and admired preacher in the colony, he had been invited
shortly after his arrival in Virginia to preach a sermon before the
Burgesses. This sermon was later printed at their request. In 1760
Giberne married a wealthy widow, Mary Fauntleroy Beale of Richmond
County, a daughter of Moore Fauntleroy of "Crandall." She had
previously been the wife of Charles Beale. Removing to her plantation,
"Belle Ville," he was two years later chosen as minister of Lunenburg
Parish, and served in that capacity until 1795. He is mentioned in
numerous diaries and letters of the period. Cf. Goodwin, Edward Lewis,
_The Colonial Church in Virginia_, pp. 271-272; Jonathan Boucher,
_Reminiscences of an American Loyalist_, _passim_; letter of Miss
Juliet Fauntleroy of November 21, 1941 in Department of Research and
Record, Colonial Williamsburg, Inc.
[Illustration: Preacher expounding]
_Monday Novemr 1st_
We began School--The School consists of eight--Two of Mr Carters
Sons--One Nephew--And five Daughters--The endest Son[58] is reading
Salust; Gramatical Exercises, and latin Grammer--The second Son[59] is
reading english Grammar Reading English: Writing, and Cyphering in
Subtraction--The Nephew[60] is Reading and Writing as above; and
Cyphering in Reduction--The eldest daughter[61] is Reading the
Spectator; Writing; & beginning to Cypher--The second[62] is reading
next out of the Spelling-Book, and begining to write--The next[63] is
reading in the Spelling-Book--The fourth[64] is Spelling in the
beginning of the Spelling-Book--And the last[65] is beginning her
letters--
[58] Benjamin Tasker.
[59] Robert Bladen or "Bob."
[60] Henry or "Harry" Willis.
[61] Priscilla.
[62] Ann Tasker or "Nancy."
[63] Frances or "Fanny."
[64] Betty Landon.
[65] Harriot Lucy.
_Teusday 2._
Busy in School--begun to read Pictete[66]--
[66] Benedict Pictete had first published his _Teologia Christiana_ in
1696.
[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO THE REVEREND ENOCH GREEN]
Westmoreland. Novr 2d 1773.
REVD SIR.
According as I appointed I take this early oppertunity of acquainting
you that I am arrived safe; and I am to assure you that I find the
place fully equal to my highest expectations--I am situated in the
_Northern-Neck_, in a most delightful Country; in a civil, polite
neighbourhood; and in a family remarkable for regularity, and
oeconomy, tho' confessedly of the highest quality and greatest worth
of any in _Virginia_. I teach only Mr Carters children, and only one
of them is to learn Languages, and he is reading Salust and the Greek
grammer, is seventeen years old, and seems to be a Boy of Genius--the
other two learn writing and Arithmetic--But he has four Daughters,
young Misses that are at times to be taught writing and English--I
have the terms as I expected, and find the place wholly agreeable--and
am strongly solicited to stay many years--But money nor conveniency
shall detain me long from my most important connections at home--You
may expect me in may at the _Synod_. Please to have my compliments to
Mrs Green, to Miss Betsy if at Deerfield, and to my acquaintances that
shall enquire and accept to yourself the
Respect of your humble Servt
PHILIP V FITHIAN
[JOURNAL]
_Wednesday 3._
Busy in School--
_Thursday 4._
Busy in School--To day the two eldest Daughters, and second Son
attended the Dancing School.[67]
[67] Priscilla, "Nancy," and "Bob." This school was conducted in
rotation at a number of manor plantations of the region by Francis
Christian, a dancing master.
_Fryday 5._
Busy in School--
_Saturday 6._
Catechised in School til twelve--the Children. And dismiss'd them.
Afternoon rode with Ben Carter to the Bank of Potowmack[68]--8
Miles--Returned in the evening--Expence Ferriage _1/_.
[68] The banks of the Potomac River could be seen in the distance from
the upper floor of "Nomini Hall."
_Sunday 7._
Rode to Ucomico Church[69]--8 Miles--Heard Parson Smith.[70] He shewed
to us the uncertainty of Riches, and their Insufficiency to make us
happy--Dined at Captain Walkers;[71] With Parson Smith, his Wife; her
Sister, a young Lady; &c--Returned in the Evening.
[69] Yeocomico Church, one of the two Anglican churches in Cople
Parish in Westmoreland County. Built in 1706, this structure still
stands.
[70] Thomas Smith was the rector of Yeocomico Church at this period.
Smith was a man of large means. He had been sent as a youth to be
educated in the mother country. He first attended a school at
Wakefield in Yorkshire and later entered Cambridge University, where
he was graduated in 1763. His son, John Augustine Smith, later became
president of the College of William and Mary.
[71] Captain Walker was a friend of Robert Carter and often visited
"Nomini Hall." Fithian frequently dined at Walker's home.
_Monday 8._
Busy in School--Finished reading the first, and begun to read the
Second Book of Pictetes Theology. Expence to Boy _/4_.
_Teusday 9._
Busy in School--
_Wednesday 10._
Busy in School--The eldest Daughter taken off by her Teacher in Music;
Mr Stadley[72] who is learning her to play the _Forte-piano_--
[72] Stadley was a German music master who visited "Nomini Hall"
regularly at this period to instruct the Carter children. He also
taught in a number of other homes in the Northern Neck. Before coming
to Virginia, Stadley had taught music in New York and Philadelphia. In
one of Carter's account books the musician's name is entered as
"Strader." Cf. Waste-Book, No. 2, September 27, 1773 to December 31,
1773, p. 45.
_Thursday 11._
Rose by seven--Busy in School--Miss Carter still absent--
_Fryday 12._
Rose by Seven--Ben begun his Greek Grammer--Three in the Afternoon Mr
Carter returned from _Williamsburg_.[73] He seems to be agreeable,
discreet, and sensible--He informed me more particularly concerning
his desire as to the Instruction of his Children--
[73] Carter was doubtless returning from attendance as a member of the
General Court at this time.
_Saturday 13._
Catechised the Children and dismissed them about Eleven--Read in
Pictete--and proceeded in writing my Sermon for the Presbytery[74]--
Expence for my Horse _1/3_.
[74] Fithian was preparing for his examination before the Presbytery
at Philadelphia at this time.
_Sunday 14._
Rode to Nominy Church about six Miles--the day Cold--Parson Smith
preached--"What shall a man be profited" &c. Rode home after
Sermon--Dined at Mr Carters to day Mrs Turbuville,[75] Miss Jenny
Corbin,[76] and Mr Cunningham[77] a young Merchant.
[75] "Hickory Hill," the manor house of John Turberville (1737-1799)
was about a mile distant from "Nomini Hall." Turberville had married
his first cousin, Martha Corbin. One of their ten children, Letitia
Corbin Turberville, later became the wife of Major Catesby Jones.
Their youngest son, George Richard Turberville, married his first
cousin, Martha Corbin, only daughter of Gawin Corbin of "Peckatone."
Their eldest son, George Lee Turberville, married Betty Tayloe Corbin.
The Turbervilles were connected with the Lees of Westmoreland County
in a number of ways and possessed large landed properties.
[76] Jane or "Jenny" Corbin was a sister of Mrs. John Turberville of
"Hickory Hill."
[77] Cunningham was one of a number of young Scotch merchants who had
settled in the Northern Neck. He was apparently a member of a firm
referred to in the account books of Robert Carter of "Nomini Hall" as
"Messrs. Fisher and Cunningham."
_Monday 15._
Busy in School--Wrote in the Evening at my Sermon.
_Teusday 16._
In School--Writing at my Sermon.
_Wednesday 17_.
Busy in School--
_Thursday 18._
Busy in School--
_Fryday 19._
Busy in School--
_Saturday 20._
Rode to Mr Fishers[78] dined with Mr Cunningham at 3 o-Clock--Rode in
the evening to Mr Lancelot Lees,[79] a young Gentleman, who has lately
come from England; sup'd on Oysters--Rode home about nine o-Clock he
along--
[78] See fn. 51.
[79] Lancelot Lee was the son of George Lee of "Mount Pleasant" in
Westmoreland County who had died in 1761. Lancelot's brother, George
Fairfax Lee, had inherited their father's manor plantation. Lancelot
and George Fairfax Lee were cousins of the Lees at "Stratford," "Lee
Hall," and at "Chantilly."
_Sunday 21._
Rode to Church--Mr Smith preached on the Parable of the rich Man.
Dined at home--Mr Lee dined with us--Reading in Pictete--Feel very
home-Sick--Saw two Brothers quarrel--Doleful Sight.--
_Monday 22._
Busy in School--Mr Lee gave us his Company in the morning in School,
and was very chearful--he left us about twelve o-Clock--
_Teusday 23._
Busy in School--Miss Carter rode out with her Dady and Mama to the
County Court[80]--Writing at my Sermons.
[80] "Nomini Hall" was some ten miles distant from the seat of
government in Westmoreland County, which is situated in the present
town of Montross.
[POEM INSERTED IN JOURNAL]
Who knows what heaven may have in view?
What yet remains for me to do?
But knowlege here might give me grief.
Instead of pleasure and relief;
I therefore yield and peaceful wait
On Providence to rule my fate;
Nor if it long 'til' I must fly
Unbodied to my judge on high
Why need I then disturb my mind?
Why not lye humble and resign'd?--
Yet tho' 'tis wrong for me to try
Into these mysteries to pry
Sure I may sit and simply sing
(I dare not strike a lofty string)
The various scenes through which I've past
I may be now acting my last;
Here in Virginia, far from friends
Except those Heaven in pity sends!
Novr 23d 1773.
_Wednesday 24._
Busy in School.
_Thursday 25._
Rode this morning to Richmond Court-house,[81] where two Horses run
for a purse of 500 Pounds; besides small Betts almost enumerable.
[81] Richmond Court House, the seat of government in Richmond County,
now called Warsaw, is some ten or twelve miles distant from "Nomini
Hall." There were a number of enthusiastic turfmen in Richmond County
during the eighteenth century.
One of the Horses belonged to Colonel John Taylor,[82] and is called
_Yorick_--The other to Dr. Flood,[83] and is called _Gift_--The
Assembly was remarkably numerous; beyond my expectation and exceeding
polite in general.
[82] Colonel John Tayloe (1721-1779) was one of the wealthiest men in
the Northern Neck. His manor house, "Mount Airy," was located near
Richmond Court House, and overlooked the Rappahannock River, some two
miles in the distance. Tayloe was a noted fancier of fine horses.
[83] Dr. William Flood lived at "Kinsail," a plantation in
Westmoreland County. He frequently combined the pleasures of horse
racing with the practice of his profession. Cf. Blanton, Wyndham B.,
_Medicine in Virginia in the Eighteenth Century_ (Richmond, 1931), p.
379.
The Horses started precisely at five minutes after three; the Course
was one Mile in Circumference, they performed the first Round in two
minutes, third in two minutes & a-half, _Yorick_ came out the fifth
time round about 40 Rod before _Gift_ they were both, when the Riders
dismounted very lame; they run five Miles, and Carried 180 lb--Rode
home in the Evening--Expence to the Boy 7-1/2d--
_Fryday 26._
Busy in School--Robin, & Nancy at dancing-School.
_Saturday 27._
Robin and Nancy yet at Dancing-School--Mr Harry Fantleroy call'd after
dinner to see us. In the Evening Ben & I rode with him to his fathers;
I was introduced to one Mr Walker a Scotch Gentleman, lately a
School-master but has quit, and is going in the Spring for the Gown to
England.[84]
[84] Since it was often difficult to secure a sufficient number of
clergymen for the parishes in Virginia, young English schoolmasters
and tutors were frequently induced to return to the mother country and
take orders so that they might fill such vacancies.
_Sunday 28._
Rode to Church--the Parson was absent; it is indeed a little cold! The
Clerk read prayers for us--We rode home--Found at Home two young
Ladies, Miss Corbin, and Miss Turburville and Mr George Lee, brother
to the Gentleman here last Sunday, & has lately returned from
England--I was introduced by Mr Carter to the two latter--
_Monday 29._
All our Scholars present--Mr Carter has put into my hands; Tyre's
Dictionary, & the pronouncing Dictionary, to improve his Sons in
Grammar classically, both Latin and English, and he has given me
Fenning in Arrithmetic.
_Teusday 30._
Busy in School--I was solicited the other Day at the Race by one Mr
_Gordon_,[85] to take and instruct two of his Sons, Saturday also I
was again solicited by Mr Fantleroy to take two of his Sons--But I
must decline it--
[85] Robert Carter's account books reveal that he sometimes had
business transactions with one George C. Gordon of Westmoreland
County.
_Wednesday Decemr 1st 1773._
Busy in School--Wrote home by the Post, to Mr Green & _Johnny Peck_.
Afternoon Vacant.
[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO THE REVEREND ENOCH GREEN]
Decemr 1st 1773.
REVD SIR.
As you desired I may not omit to inform you, so far as I can by a
letter, of the business in which I am now engaged, it would indeed be
vastly agreeable to me if it was in my power to give you particular
intelligence concerning the state and plan of my employment here.
I set out from home the 20th of Octr and arrived at the Hon: Robert
Carters, of Nominy, in Westmorland County, the 28th I began to teach
his children the first of November. He has two sons, and one Nephew;
the oldest Son is turned of seventeen, and is reading Salust and the
greek grammer; the others are about fourteen, and in english grammer,
and Arithmetic. He has besides five daughters which I am to teach
english, the eldest is turned of fifteen, and is reading the
spectator; she is employed two days in every week in learning to play
the Forte-Piana, and Harpsicord--The others are smaller, and learning
to read and spell. Mr Carter is one of the Councellors in the general
court at Williamsburg, and possest of as great, perhaps the clearest
fortune according to the estimation of people here, of any man in
Virginia: He seems to be a good scholar, even in classical learning,
and is remarkable one in english grammar; and notwithstanding his
rank, which in general seems to countenance indulgence to children,
both himself and Mrs Carter have a manner of instructing and dealing
with children far superior, I may say it with confidence, to any I
have ever seen, in any place, or in any family. They keep them in
perfect subjection to themselves, and never pass over an occasion of
reproof; and I blush for many of my acquaintances when I say that the
children are more kind and complaisant to the servants who constantly
attend them than we are to our superiors in age and condition. Mr
Carter has an over-grown library of Books of which he allows me the
free use. It consists of a general collection of law books, all the
Latin and Greek Classicks, vast number of Books on Divinity chiefly by
writers who are of the established Religion; he has the works of
almost all the late famous writers, as Locke, Addison, Young, Pope,
Swift, Dryden, &c. in Short, Sir, to speak moderately, he has more
than eight times your number[86]--His eldest Son, who seems to be a
Boy of Genius and application is to be sent to Cambridge University,
but I believe will go through a course either in Philadelphia or
Princeton College first. As to what is commonly said concerning
Virginia that it is difficult to avoid being corrupted with the
manners of the people, I believe it is founded wholly in a mistaken
notion that persons must, when here frequent all promiscuous
assemblies; but this is so far from truth that any one who does
practise it, tho' he is accused of no crime, loses at once his
character; so that either the manners have been lately changed, or the
report is false, for he seems now to be best esteemed and most
applauded who attends to his business, whatever it be, with the
greatest diligence. I believe the virginians have of late altered
their manner very much, for they begin to find that their estates by
even small extravagance, decline, and grow involved with debt, this
seems to be the spring which induces the People of fortune who are the
pattern of all behaviour here, to be frugal, and moderate. You may
expect me at home by the permission of Providence the latter end of
april next, or the beginning of May; and as I proposed I shall present
my exercises for the examination of the Presbytery; and if they think
proper I shall gladly accept of a licence in the fall: I must beg your
favour to mention me to such of my acquaintances in Deerfield as you
think proper, but especially to Mrs Green, Miss _Betsy_, your family,
and Mrs Pecks--I must also beg you to transmit so much of this
intelligence to Mr Hunter as that my relations in Greenwich may know
that I am through the mercy of heaven in good health. I beg, Sir, you
will not fail to write, and let it be known to Mr Hunter, that a
letter will come as secure by the Post as from Cohansie to
Philadelphia; the Letters are to be directed to me thus, To Mr Philip
V. Fithian at Mr _Carters_ of Nominy, to be left at Hobes Hole[87]
I am, Sir, yours
PHILIP V FITHIAN
[86] See catalogue of Robert Carter's library in Appendix, pp.
221-229.
[87] Hobb's Hole, the present town of Tappahannock, is situated on the
Rappahannock River in Essex County. The town was a lively center of
trade and shipping at this period.
[JOURNAL]
_Thursday 2._
Busy in School.
_Fryday 3._
Busy in School. Expence to Boy for trimming my Horse half a Bit.
Evening after School walked in the fields with Mrs _Carter_, Miss
Carter, and Miss Nancy.
_Saturday 4._
About Eleven Ben and I rode to Mr Lees walked over a Part of his Farm;
from his House we see the Potowmack, and a fine River putting from it.
We returned in the Evening, found Mr Fantleroy, and Mr Walker at Home;
at Supper I had the pleasure to toast in my turn Miss Corbin--But I
meant the absent _Laura_!
_Sunday 5._
Rode to Richmond upper Church, a Polite Assembly; Mr Gibbern gave us a
Sermon on, O Death I will be thy Plague &c., a warm discourse Dined at
Home.
_Monday 6._
Mr Walker left us after Breakfast. Busy in School.
_Teusday 7._
Mr _Stadley_ Miss Priscilla's Music Master arrived this morning--He
performed several peices on the Violin. Expence for an Orange half a
Bit.
_Wednesday 8._
Miss Priscilla with her Music Master, they performed together to day--
_Thursday 9._
Mr Stadley left us. Busy in School.
_Fryday 10._
Miss Nancy is beginning on the _Guitar_. Ben finished reading Salusts
Cataline Conspiracy.
_Saturday 11._
Rode and Dined with Captain Walker--Saw and dined with Miss _Simpson_
& Mr Warden.[88]
[88] John Warden was a young Scotsman. While a student in Edinburgh,
Warden had been engaged by Dr. Walter Jones of Virginia to serve as a
tutor in the family of his brother, Colonel Thomas Jones of
Northumberland County. In the Jones home Warden had enjoyed
exceptional advantages and he appears to have read law after coming to
the colony. He later became a distinguished member of the Virginia
bar.
_Sunday 12._
Rode to Nominy-Church, parson Smith preached 15 minutes--Advertisement
at the Church door dated Sunday Decemr 12th Pork to be sold to-morrow
at 20/. per Hundred--dined with us to day Captain Walker. Colonel
Richd Lee,[89] & Mr Lanclot Lee. sat after Dinner till Sunset, drank
three Bottles of Medaira, two Bowls of Toddy!--
[89] Both Richard Lee (1726-1795), commonly called "Squire" Lee, and
his cousin, Richard Henry Lee (1732-1794), who was known as "Colonel"
Lee, lived on estates on the Potomac River in Westmoreland County.
"Squire" Richard Lee's manor plantation was called "Lee Hall." The
home of Colonel Richard Henry Lee was known as "Chantilly." A second
Richard Lee, also known as "Squire Lee," and a cousin of the above
mentioned persons, lived on the Potomac in Charles County, Maryland.
_Monday 13._
Mr Carter is preparing for a Voyage in his Schooner, the Hariot,[90]
to the Eastern Shore in Maryland, for Oysters: there are of the party,
Mr _Carter_, Captain _Walker_, Colonel _Richd Lee_, & Mr _Lancelot
Lee_. With Sailors to work the vessel--I observe it is a general
custom on Sundays here, with Gentlemen to invite one another home to
dine, after Church; and to consult about, determine their common
business, either before or after Service--It is not the Custom for
Gentlemen to go into Church til Service is beginning, when they enter
in a Body, in the same manner as they come out; I have known the Clerk
to come out and call them in to prayers.--They stay also after the
Service is over, usually as long, sometimes longer, than the Parson
was preaching--Almost every Lady wears a red Cloak; and when they ride
out they tye a white handkerchief over their Head and face, so that
when I first came into Virginia, I was distress'd whenever I saw a
Lady, for I thought She had the Tooth-Ach!--The People are extremely
hospitable, and very polite both of which are most certainly universal
Characteristics of the Gentlemen in Virginia--some swear bitterly, but
the practise seems to be generally disapproved--I have heard that this
Country is notorious for Gaming, however this be, I have not seen a
Pack of _Cards_, nor a _Die_, since I left home, nor gaming nor
Betting of any kind except at the Richmond-Race. Almost every
Gentleman of Condition, keeps a Chariot and _Four_; many drive with
six Horses--I observe that all the Merchants & shopkeepers in the
Sphere of my acquaintance and I am told it is the case through the
Province, are young Scotch-Men; Several of whom I know, as
_Cunningham, Jennings, Hamilton, Blain_;--And it has been the custom
heretofore to have all their Tutors, and Schoolmasters from Scotland,
tho' they begin to be willing to employ their own Countrymen--Evening
Ben Carter and myself had a long dispute on the practice of
fighting--He thinks it best for two persons who have any dispute to go
out in good-humour & fight manfully, & says they will be sooner and
longer friends than to brood and harbour malice--Mr _Carter_ is
practising this Evening on the _Guittar_ He begins with the _Trumpet
Minuet_. He has a good Ear for Music; a vastly delicate Taste; and
keeps good Instruments, he has here at Home a _Harpsichord_,
_Forte-Piano_, _Harmonica_,[91] _Guittar_, _Violin_, & _German
Flutes_, & at Williamsburg, has a good _Organ_, he himself also is
indefatigable in the Practice.
[90] This schooner had been named for Carter's daughter, Harriot Lucy.
[91] Carter described the harmonica as "the musical glasses without
water, framed into a complete instrument, capable of through bass and
never out of tune." Quoted in Williams, ed., _Fithian_, p. 59, fn. 1.
[Illustration: boat ride]
_Teusday 14._
Busy in School--The Weather vastly fine! There has been no Rain of
consequence, nor any stormy or disagreeable Weather, since about the
10th of last Month! From the Window, by which I write, I have a broad,
a diversified, and an exceedingly beautiful Prospect of the high
craggy Banks of the River _Nominy_! Some of those huge Hills are
cover'd thick with _Cedar_, & Pine Shrubs; A vast quantity of which
seems to be in almost every part of this Province--Others are naked, &
when the Sun Shines look beautiful! At the Distance of about 5 Miles
is the River Potowmack over which I can see the smoky Woods of
Maryland; At this window I often stand, and cast my Eyes homeward with
peculiar pleasure! Between my window and the potowmack, is Nominy
Church, it stands close on the Bank of the River Nominy, in a pleasant
agreeable place, Mr Carters family go down often, so many as can with
convenience in a Boat rowed by four Men, and generally arrive as soon
as those who ride.
The mouth of Nominy River where it falls into Potowmack is about 25
miles above the mouth of Potowmack or where it falls into the
Chessapeak-Bay. And about 12 Miles below the mouth of Nominy the River
Ucomico[92] puts up into the country, near which River, and about
three miles from the mouth stands the lower parish Church of
Westmorland County call'd Ucomic Church.[93] The River Potowmack
opposite to us the People say is 18 miles over, but I think it is not
more than 8. Afternoon Captain Grigg,[94] who arrived last Sunday
moning into the River Ucomico from London visited Mr Carter. Evening
reading Picteete.
[92] The Yeocomico River.
[93] Yeocomico Church.
[94] Grigg, the captain of an English vessel, often mingled with the
plantation families of the Northern Neck when he was in the colony.
_Wednesday 15._
Busy in School--To day Dined with us Mrs Turburville, & her Daughter
Miss Letty[95] Miss Jenny Corbin, & Mr Blain. We dined at three. The
manner here is different from our way of living in Cohansie--In the
morning so soon as it is light a Boy knocks at my Door to make a fire;
after the Fire is kindled, I rise which now in the winter is commonly
by Seven, or a little after, By the time I am drest the Children
commonly enter the School-Room, which is under the Room I sleep in; I
hear them round one lesson, when the Bell rings for eight o-Clock (for
Mr Carter has a large good Bell of upwards of 60 Lb. which may be
heard some miles, & this is always rung at meal Times;) the Children
then go out; and at half after eight the Bell rings for Breakfast, we
then repair to the Dining-Room; after Breakfast, which is generally
about half after nine, we go into School, and sit til twelve, when the
Bell rings, & they go out for noon; the dinner-Bell rings commonly
about half after two, often at three, but never before two.--After
dinner is over, which in common, when we have no Company, is about
half after three we go into School, & sit til the Bell rings at five,
when they separate til the next morning; I have to myself in the
Evening, a neat Chamber, a large Fire, Books, & Candle & my Liberty,
either to continue in the school room, in my own Room or to sit over
at the great House with Mr & Mrs Carter--We go into Supper commonly
about half after eight or at nine & I usually go to Bed between ten
and Eleven. Altho the family in which I live, is certainly under as
good political Regulations, and every way as suitable & agreeable as I
can expect, or even could desire; & though the Neighbourhood is
polite, & the Country pleasant, yet I cannot help reflecting on my
situation last winter, which was near the lovely _Laura_ for whom I
cannot but have the truest, and the warmest Esteem! possibly, If
Heaven shall preserve my life, in some future time, I may again enjoy
her good society.
[95] Letitia Corbin Turberville.
Mr Carter heard this Evening that Captain _Walker_ cannot go to
Maryland, he is thus stop'd.
_Thursday 16._
I can only to day write down my Misfortune; my poor Horse as he was
feeding in a miry Bottom, walked upon a sharp Stick, which stuck into
his Thigh on the under Side about four Inches below his Flank!--The
stick went in more than three Inches!--He is very lame, but they tell
me will recover, The Hostler, when we had lead him to the Stable,
applied Spirits of Turpentine to the part, and in the Evening is to
fill it with Comfrey Roots pounded Soft.
I had the pleasure of walking to Day at twelve o-Clock with Mrs
Carter; She shewed me her stock of _Fowls_ & _Mutton_ for the winter;
She observed, with great truth, that to live in the Country, and take
no pleasure at all in Groves, Fields, or Meadows; nor in Cattle,
Horses, & domestic Poultry, would be a manner of life too tedious to
endure; Dined at three.
_Fryday 17._
I dismissed the children this morning til' monday on account of Mr
Christian's _Dance_, which, as it goes through his Scholars in
Rotation, happens to be here to Day--and I myself also am unwell, so
as not to go out;--Mrs Carter sent me over Coffee for Breakfast; &
soon after some Spirits of _Hartshorn_ for my Head--At twelve she sent
the waiting Man to know if I was better, & what I would choose for
Dinner. I thank'd her, & desired that She would give herself no
trouble; She was careful, however, from her undistinguished kindness,
to send me before Dinner some hot _Barley Broth_,--_Ben Carter_ before
Noon introduced into my Room, Mr _Billy Booth_,[96] a young Gentleman
of Fortune, who is one of Mr Christians pupils--The two Master
Fantleroys came in also to see me--There came to the dance three
_Chariots_, two _Chairs_, & a number of Horses. Towards Evening I grew
Better, & walked down, with a number of young Fellows to the River;
after our return I was strongly solicited by the young Gentlemen to go
in and dance I declined it, however, and went to my Room not without
Wishes that it had been a part of my Education to learn what I think
is an innocent and an ornamental, and most certainly, in this province
is a necessary qualification for a person to appear even decent in
Company!--
[96] William Booth, who was a planter of considerable means in
Westmoreland County at this time, was probably the father of this
youth.
Mrs _Carter_ in the Evening, sent me for Supper, a Bowl of hot Green
Tea, & several _Tarts_. I expected that they would have danced til
late in the Night, but intirely contrary to my Expectation, the
Company were separated to their respective apartments before half
after nine o_Clock_.
_Saturday 18._
Rose by Seven, Sent for Mr Carters Barber and was drest for
Breakfast--We went in to Breakfast at ten;--I confess I have been
seldom more dash'd than when I entered the dining-Room, for I must of
necessity be interrogated by Mr _Carter_ before them all, about my
indisposition, and if I was better.--I went through the several
Ceremonies with as much resolution, and speed as possible, and soon
mixed with the Company in promiscuous conversation. There were present
of Grown persons Mr & Mrs. _Carter_, Mrs _Lee_, & Miss _Jenny Corbin_;
young Misses about Eleven: & Seven young Fellows, including
myself;--After Breakfast, we all retired into the Dancing-Room, &
after the Scholars had their Lesson singly round Mr Christian, very
politely, requested me to step a _Minuet_; I excused myself however,
but signified my peculiar pleasure in the Accuracy of their
performance--There were several Minuets danced with great ease and
propriety; after which the whole company Joined in country-dances,[97]
and it was indeed beautiful to admiration, to see such a number of
young persons, set off by dress to the best Advantage, moving easily,
to the sound of well performed Music, and with perfect regularity,
tho' apparently in the utmost Disorder--The Dance continued til two,
we dined at half after three--soon after Dinner we repaired to the
Dancing-Room again; I observe in the course of the lessons, that Mr
Christian is punctual, and rigid in his discipline, so strict indeed
that he struck two of the young Misses for a fault in the course of
their performance, even in the presence of the Mother of one of them!
And he rebuked one of the young Fellows so highly as to tell him he
must alter his manner, which he had observed through the Course of the
Dance, to be insolent, and wanton, or absent himself from the
School--I thought this a sharp reproof, to a young Gentleman of
seventeen, before a large number of Ladies!--When it grew too dark to
dance, the young Gentlemen walked over to my Room, we conversed til
half after six; Nothing is now to be heard of in conversation, but the
_Balls_, the _Fox-hunts_, the fine _entertainments_, and the _good
fellowship_, which are to be exhibited at the approaching
_Christmas_.--I almost think myself happy that my Horses lameness will
be sufficient Excuse for my keeping at home on these Holidays.--Mr
Goodlet[98] was barr'd out of his School last Monday by his Scholars,
for the Christmas Holidays, which are to continue til twelfth-day; But
my Scholars are of a more quiet nature, and have consented to have
four or five Days now, and to have their full Holiday in May next,
when I propose by the permission of Providence to go Home, where I
hope to see the good and benevolent _Laura_.
[97] "County-dances" were English dances of rural or native origin,
especially those in which an indefinite number of couples stood face
to face in two long lines. Country dances had been popular on greens
and at fairs in England long before they were introduced into polite
society. When the country dance was imported into France the name
became _contre-dance_, and it has been erroneously assumed that
"country-dance" is a corruption of the French term.
[98] Goodlet was apparently a tutor in the Fauntleroy family of "The
Cliffs."
When the candles were lighted we all repaired, for the last time, into
the dancing Room; first each couple danced a Minuet; then all joined
as before in the country Dances, these continued till half after Seven
when Mr Christian retired; and at the proposal of several, (with Mr
Carters approbation) we played _Button_, to get Pauns for Redemption;
here I could join with them, and indeed it was carried on with
sprightliness, and Decency; in the course of redeeming my Pauns, I had
several Kisses of the Ladies!--Early in the Evening cam colonel Philip
Lee,[99] in a travelling Chariot from Williamsburg--Half after eight
we were rung in to Supper; The room looked luminous and splendid; four
very large candles burning on the table where we supp'd, three others
in different parts of the Room; a gay, sociable Assembly, & four well
instructed waiters!--So soon as we rose from supper, the Company
form'd into a semicircle round the fire, & Mr Lee, by the voice of the
Company was chosen _Pope_, and Mr Carter, Mr Christian, Mrs _Carter_,
Mrs _Lee_, and the rest of the company were appointed Friars, in the
play call'd "break the Popes neck"--Here we had great Diversion in the
respective Judgments upon offenders, but we were all dismiss'd by ten,
and retired to our several Rooms.
[99] Philip Ludwell Lee (1727-1775) was the eldest son of Thomas Lee,
who had served as president of the Council. He had inherited his
father's manor plantation, "Stratford," on the Potomac River in
Westmoreland County. Like Robert Carter, Philip Ludwell Lee was now a
member of the Council.
_Sunday 19._
Early this morning, I was awaked out of sleep by two youngsters, (for
we are thronged with company, so that two slept in my Room) who were
agreeing upon a Ride the Day after Christmas, (which will be Sunday)
up to Fredricksburg, which lies upon the Rapahannock, fifty Miles
higher up the country than where we live;--Breakfasted at nine, soon
after which all our company dispersed; I had the offer of a Horse, &
was strongly solicited to go to Church, but I declined it--My Horse is
very lame, his Thigh, from the sore down to his knee is much
swell'd!--It runs however, and the Hostler tells me it is mending.
Dined at three; Miss Betsy Lee[100] dined with us--Writing to day my
Sermon for the Presbitery. Sup'd on Oysters.
[100] Probably Elizabeth Lee, daughter of John Lee of Essex County, a
nephew of Thomas Lee of "Stratford."
This is the first day I have missed Church.
_Monday 20._
Rose at half after Seven; the Morning extremely cold--We had in School
to Day as visitors Miss Betsy, and Miss Matilda Lee[101] Mr Carter
gave me for his Daughter Nancy to Read, the "Compleat Letter-writer"--
Also he put into my hands for the use of the School, "the British-Grammar."
[101] Matilda Lee was the daughter of Philip Ludwell Lee of
"Stratford." She later married "Light Horse Harry" Lee.
_Teusday 21._
Rose by Half after seven--the weather serene but sharp and cold.--To
day, before Dinner called in and stayed a short time Mr _Blain_ and Mr
_Lee_ who were going to one Mr Lanes[102] to a _Christning_, which I
understand is one of the chief times for Diversion here--Miss
_Carter_, this afternoon told me that her Mama thought of giving a
small _Ball_ at the approaching Christmas for select friends.
[102] One Joseph Lane was a prominent planter in Westmoreland County
at this time.
[PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]
Nominy-Hall Virginia. Decem: 21. 1773.
TO LAURA.
If these shall be so fortunate, as to come to your Hands, I beg leave
to acquaint you that I am as agreeably settled as I can possibly be
when so remote from the chief object of my Esteem on Earth--And, that
I am, & have been, since I left Home, through the Kindness of Heaven,
in good Health.
You will be surprized if I tell you that I should have been now in
Cohansie, had I never seen you, or had you been less uncertain of your
future Purpose! That you may not be wholly without a Reason for what I
say, I must tell you, that in your Absence last Summer I found it
difficult to restrain myself from Writing frequently to you; And after
I was compell'd, tho' unwilling, to believe that you would grant me no
Return; lest I should be troublesome or impertinent, when I had an
advantageous Offer from the Gentleman with whom I now reside, I
determined to leave Home a few Months. So far I have jested--But to be
serious, Laura, I hope to see you in the Spring as I propose to be at
Home by the Beginning of May--Perhaps the fine Air; the sprightly
Conversation; the sociable Balls; & various Pleasures so common here,
will have made so very a "Coxcomb" of musty Philander, that you will
blush to confess you ever knew him! Be not hasty to judge--Possibly,
on the other Hand, Laura; even Laura, may appear so dull &
unfashionable that Philander tho' a Coxcomb will look down & despise
her--No Laura, for tho, we have fine Ladies; Gay Fellows, charming
Music; rich & I may say luxurious Entertainment; to all which I am
almost every Week strongly invited; Yet I find greater Pleasure at
Home, where I have every genteel Accomodation I could wish, and a
Family of lovely Children to instruct--You would envy me if I was able
to tell you how kind, obedient, & beautiful the Children are which I
teach!--I have three Boys the youngest of which is about the Age &
Size of your Brother R--Also five Girls between five & fourteen years
Old. The Girls all dress in White, & are remarkably genteel. They have
been educated in the City Williamsburg in this Colony--The two eldest
are now learning Music, one to play the Harpsichord; the other the
Guittar, in the practice of which they spend three Days in the Week--I
have only further to acquaint you that every one is now speaking of
the approaching Christmas.--The young Ladies tell me we are to have a
Ball, of selected Friends in this Family--But I, hard Lot, I have
never learn'd to dance!
I am, however,
my dear Eliza, thine
PHI: V. FITHIAN.
[JOURNAL]
_Wednesday 22._
Mr _Cunningham_ came last Evening and staid the Night.--There is a
Report that he is making suit to Miss _Jenny Corbin_.
To day I finished my Sermon for the Presbitery--I read _Pictete_, The
_Spectator_, _Salust_, _History of England_, _English Grammar_,
_Arithmetic_, and the _Magazines_ by turns. Miss _Priscilla_, and Miss
_Nancy_ rode this morning in the Chariot over to Mr _Turburvills_--
Bob, every day at twelve o-Clock, is down by the River Side with his
Gun after Ducks, Gulls &c.--Ben is on his Horse a Riding, Harry, is
either in the Kitchen, or at the Blacksmiths, or Carpenters Shop. They
all find places of Rendesvous so soon as the Beell rings, and all seem
to choose different Sports!--To day dined with us Mr Cox the Gentleman
at whose House I breakfasted the Day after I came first.--Evening Mr
Carter spent in playing on the Harmonica; It is the first time I have
heard the Instrument. The music is charming! He play'd, Water parted
from the Sea.[103]--The Notes are clear and inexpressibly Soft, they
swell, and are inexpressibly grand; & either it is because the sounds
are new, and therefore please me, or it is the most captivating
Instrument I have Ever heard. The sounds very much resemble the human
voice, and in my opinion they far exceed even the swelling Organ.
[103] This song occurs in an opera, _Artaxerxes_, by Thomas Augustine
Arne, which was first performed in London in 1762. The libretto of
Arne was an adaptation of an Italian drama, _Artaserse_, by Metastasio
(Pietro Antonia Domenico Bonaventura). Metastasio was born in 1698 and
died in 1782.
_Thursday 23._
Rose at eight--Rains this morning, the weather is also warmer. Mr
Carter has sent his son Ben to his head _Overseer_, to take notice and
account of the measuring the Crop of Corn--For the Planters now have
just gathered in their Summers Crop!--To Day I write a letter to
_Laura_: Waft it, kind Oppertunity, soon to the dear Maid, and Make it
easy, & desirable for her to make me a Return!--
At Dinner Mr & Mrs _Carter_ gave their opinion concerning what they
thought pleasing and agreeable in a person; Mrs Carter said she loved
a sociable open, chatty person; that She could not bear Sullenness,
and stupidity--Mr Carter, on the other-hand, observed that it is just
which Solomon says, that there is a "time for all things under the
Sun"; that it discovers great Judgment to laugh in Season, and that,
on the whole, he is pleased with Taciturnity--pray which of the two
should I suit?--It is a custom with our _Bob_ whenever he can coax
his _Dog_ up stairs, to take him into his Bed, and make him a
companion; I was much pleased this morning while he and _Harry_ were
reading in Course a Chapter in the Bible, that they read in the 27th
Chapter of Deuteronomy the Curses threatened there for Crimes; Bob
seldom, perhaps never before, read the verse, at last read that
"Cursed be he that lyeth with any manner of Beast, and all the People
shall say Amen." I was exceedingly Pleased, yet astonished at the Boy
on two accounts.--1st At the end of every verse, befor he came to
this, he would pronounce aloud, "Amen." But on Reading this verse he
not only omitted the "Amen," but seem'd visibly struck with
confusion!--2d And so soon as the Verse was read, to excuse himself,
he said at once, Brother _Ben_ slept all last winter with his Dog, and
learn'd me!--Thus ready are Mankind always to evade Correction!--This
Evening, after I had dismiss'd the Children, & was sitting in the
School-Room cracking Nuts, none present but Mr _Carters Clerk_, a
civil, inoffensive, agreeable young Man, who acts both in the
character of a Clerk and Steward, when the Woman who makes my Bed,
asked me for the key of my Room, and on seeing the young Man sitting
with me, she told him that her Mistress had this afternoon given
orders that their Allowance of Meat should be given out to them
to-morrow.--She left us; I then asked the young man what their
allowance is? He told me that excepting some favourites about the
table, their weekly allowance is a peck of Corn, & a pound of Meat a
Head!--And Mr Carter is allow'd by all, & from what I have already
seen of others, I make no Doubt at all but he is, by far the most
humane to his Slaves of any in these parts! Good God! are these
Christians?--When I am on the Subject, I will relate further, what I
heard Mr George Lees Overseer, one Morgan, say the other day that he
himself had often done to Negroes, and found it useful; He said that
whipping of any kind does them no good, for they will laugh at your
greatest Severity; But he told us he had invented two things, and by
several experiments had proved their success.--For Sulleness,
Obstinacy, or Idleness, says he, Take a Negro, strip him, tie him fast
to a post; take then a sharp Curry-Comb, & curry him severely til he
is well scrap'd; & call a Boy with some dry Hay, and make the Boy rub
him down for several Minutes, then salt him, & unlose him. He will
attend to his Business, (said the inhuman Infidel) afterwards!--But
savage Cruelty does not exceed His next diabolical Invention--To get a
Secret from a Negro, says he, take the following Method--Lay upon your
Floor a large thick plank, having a peg about eighteen Inches long,
of hard wood, & very Sharp, on the upper end, fixed fast in the
plank--then strip the Negro, tie the Cord to a staple in the Ceiling,
so as that his foot may just rest on the sharpened Peg, then turn him
briskly round, and you would laugh (said our informer) at the
Dexterity of the Negro, while he was releiving his Feet on the
sharpen'd Peg!--I need say nothing of these seeing there is a
righteous God, who will take vengeance on such Inventions!--Miss
_Priscilla_ and _Nancy_ returned in the evening.
_Fryday 24._
Ben Rode off this morning before day to Mr Fantleroys, for Christmas I
dismiss'd the children while next Wednesday. I was introduced by Mr
Carter at Dinner, to Dr Jones[104] a practitioner in Richmond. I spent
my Day in my Room alone as agreeably as I have done any since I have
been in virginia coppying off my Sermon, & correcting it. Retirement
is as pleasing, & desirable to me here as at _princeton_, or
_Cohansie!_ & by Gods blessing I hope to make it as profitable. In the
Evening I read the two first Books of _popes Homer_. Dr Jones supped
with us, & is to stay the Night. The conversation at supper was on
Nursing Children; I find it is common here for people of Fortune to
have their young Children suckled by the Negroes! Dr Jones told us his
first and only Child is now with such a Nurse; & Mrs Carter said that
Wenches have suckled several of hers--Mrs Carter has had thirteen
Children She told us to night and she has nine now living; of which
seven are with me. Guns are fired this Evening in the Neighbourhood,
and the Negroes seem to be inspired with new Life.[105] The Day has
been serene and mild, but the Evening is hazy.
Supp'd on Oysters.
[104] Dr. Walter Jones of "Hayfield" in Lancaster County, was known as
"the luminary of the Northern Neck." He was the son of Colonel Thomas
Jones, a planter-businessman of Williamsburg and Hanover County. His
mother, Elizabeth Cocke, was a niece of Mark Catesby, the well-known
English naturalist. Dr. Jones had been educated at the College of
William and Mary and he studied medicine at the University of
Edinburgh. At the former institution he became a fast friend of Thomas
Jefferson and of Bathurst Skelton, whose widow Jefferson later
married. Jones achieved distinction both in the field of medicine and
in politics. In 1777 he was appointed physician-general of the Middle
Department, but declined the office, which was later filled by Dr.
Benjamin Rush of Philadelphia. Jones was made a member of the American
Philosophical Society in 1774. He served as a member of Congress for a
number of years. Dr. Jones' wife was Alice Flood, the daughter of
William Flood, the well-known physician and turfman of Richmond
County.
[105] The custom of firing powder during the Christmas season is one
that persists in the South today in various forms.
_Saturday 25._
I was waked this morning by Guns fired all round the House. The
morning is stormy, the wind at South East rains hard Nelson the Boy
who makes my Fire, blacks my shoes, does errands &c. was early in my
Room, drest only in his shirt and Breeches! He made me a vast fire,
blacked my Shoes, set my Room in order, and wish'd me a joyful
Christmas, for which I gave him half a Bit.--Soon after he left the
Room, and before I was Drest, the Fellow who makes the Fire in our
School Room, drest very neatly in green, but almost drunk, entered my
chamber with three or four profound Bows, & made me the same
salutation; I gave him a _Bit_, and dismissed him as soon as
possible.--Soon after my Cloths and Linen were sent in with a message
for a Christmas _Box_, as they call it; I sent the poor Slave a Bit, &
my thanks.--I was obliged for want of small change, to put off for
some days the Barber who shaves & dresses me.--I gave _Tom_ the
Coachman, who Doctors my Horse, for his care two Bits, & am to give
more when the Horse is well.--I gave to _Dennis_ the Boy who waits at
Table half a _Bit_--So that the sum of my Donations to the Servants,
for this Christmas appears to be five Bits, a Bit is a pisterene
bisected; or an English sixpence, & passes here for seven pence
Halfpenny, the whole is _3s 1½d._--
At Breakfast, when Mr Carter entered the Room, he gave us the
compliments of the Season. He told me, very civily, that as my Horse
was Lame, his own riding Horse is at my Service to ride when & where I
Choose.
Mrs Carter was, as always, cheerful, chatty, & agreeable; She told me
after Breakfast several droll, merry Occurrences that happened while
she was in the City Williamsburg.--
This morning came from the Post-office at Hobbes-Hole, on the
Rappahannock, our News-papers. Mr Carter takes the Pennsylvania
Gazette, which seems vastly agreeable to me, for it is like having
something from home--But I have yet no answer to my Letter. We dined
at four o-Clock--Mr Carter kept in his Room, because he breakfasted
late, and on Oysters--There were at Table Mrs Carter & her five
Daughters that are at School with me--Miss _Priscilla_, _Nancy_,
_Fanny_, _Betsy_, and _Harriot_, five as beautiful delicate,
well-instructed Children as I have ever known!--_Ben_ is abroad; _Bob_
& _Harry_ are out; so there was no Man at Table but myself.--I must
carve--Drink the Health--and talk if I can! Our Dinner was no
otherwise than common, yet as elegant a _Christmas Dinner_ as I ever
sat Down to--The table Discourse was Marriage; Mrs _Carter_ observ'd
that was she a Widow, she should scruple to marry any man alive; She
gave a reason, that She did not think it probable a man could love her
grown old when the world is thronged with blooming, ripening Virgins;
but in fact Mrs Carter looks & would pass for a younger Woman than
some unmarried Ladies of my acquaintance, who would willingly enough
make us place them below twenty!--We dined at four; when we rose from
table it was growing dark--The wind continues at South East & is
stormy and muddy.
Mr _Randolph_ the Clerk told me this Evening a Circumstance concerning
_Bob_ which tho it discovered stupidity, yet at the same time
discovered great thoughtfulness.--It was about his sleeping with the
_Dog_; Mr _Randolph_ told me _Bob_ asked him with great solemnity if
he thought _God Almighty_ knew it!--While we supped Mr _Carter_ as he
often does played on the _Forte-Piano_. He almost never sups. Last
Night and to night I had large clear, & very elegant Spermaceti
Candles sent into my Room;
_Sunday 26._
I rose at eight--The morning is fair; all seem quiet--I went to the
window before I was drest, having only a Gown thrown about me &
enjoy'd a beautiful Prospect of the high Banks of the River Nomini
gilded by the morning Sun--I could not help casting my Eyes with
eagerness over the blue Potowmack and look homewards.--After having
paid my morning secret Devotion to the King of Kings, I sat myself to
the correcting and transcribing my Sermon--I had the pleasure to wait
on Mrs _Carter_ to Church She rode in the Chariot, & Miss Prissy and
Nancy; Mr Carter chose to stay at Home--The Sacrament was to have been
administred but there was so few people that he thought it improper,
and put of til Sunday fortnight. He preach'd from Isaiah 9.6. For unto
us a child is Born &c. his Sermon was fifteen Minutes long! very
fashionable--He invited me very civilly to Dine & spend the Evening
with him, but I could not leave the Ladies! He made me almost promise,
however to call some Day this Week.
At the Church to day I heard an impious Expression from a young
Scotch-Man,[106] Tutor in Mr Washingtons Family; he meant it for a
Satire upon the neglect of the people in suffering their Grave Yard to
lie common--He saw some Cattle & Hogs feeding & rooting in the yard;
"Why, says he, if I was buried here it would grieve me to look up and
see _Swine_ feeding over me"!--But I understand only the lower sort of
People are buried at the Church; for the Gentleman have private
burying-Yards.
[106] John Lowe (1750-1798), a Scotsman, was the tutor of the children
of Colonel John Augustine Washington, a brother of George Washington,
at this period. John Augustine Washington's manor plantation,
"Bushfield," was located on the Potomac River in Westmoreland County,
a short distance from "Nomini Hall" and "Hickory Hill." Lowe was the
author of a number of ballads which are still popular in Scotland
today. After serving for some time as a tutor and conducting an
academy at Fredericksburg, he was ordained an Anglican clergyman, and
appears to have served as minister in both St. George's and Hanover
Parishes. An unhappy marriage is believed to have led to a dissipation
which resulted in his early death. Cf. Meade, _Old Churches, Ministers
and Families of Virginia_, Vol. II, p. 185; _Virginia Magazine of
History_, Vol. 29 (January 1921), pp. 102-105.
_Monday 27._
At Breakfast Mrs Carter gave me an Invitation to wait on her to Parson
_Smiths_ Mr Carter offered Me his riding Horse, A beautiful grey,
young, lively Colt; We sat out about ten, Mrs Carter, Miss Prissy,
Miss Fanny, & Miss Betsy, in the Chariot; Bob and I were on Horse
back; Mrs Carter had three waiting Men; a Coachman. Driver &
Postillion. We found the way muddy; got there a little after twelve;
Mr Smith was out; I was introduced by Mrs Carter to Mrs Smith, and a
young Lady her Sister who lives with them; At Dinner I was at Mr
Smiths request to "say Grace" as they call it; which is always
express'd by the People in the following words, "God bless us in what
we are to receive"--& after Dinner, "God make us thankful for his
mercies"--As we were sitting down to Table Ben Carter rode up; when we
had dined, the Ladies retired, leaving us a Bottle of Wine, & a Bowl
of Toddy for companions--Ben came with a Message for me to go to a
Ball, but poor fellow, I cant dance!--He prest me very much, but I was
forced to decline it--We returned in the Evening; & found Mr Carter &
Miss Nancy practising Music, one on the Forte-Piano, and the other on
the Guitar. Mr Carter is Learning Bedford, Coles hill, and several
other Church Tunes.
[Illustration: horse-drawn coach]
_Teusday 28._
Last Night there fell a Snow, which is about half Shoe deep, the Air
is sharp, the wind at North, & Snows yet by turns. I finished and laid
by my Sermon for the Presbytery this morning--Breakfasted at ten: Ben
staid last Night at Mr _Turbuville's_ & got Home to day about twelve
from his _Christmas Jaunt_.
Spent most of the Day at the great House hearing the various
Instruments of Music. Evening, at Miss Prissy's Request I drew for her
some Flowers on Linen which she is going to imbroider, for a various
Counterpane.
_Wednesday 29._
This Morning our School begins after the Holidays. Bob seems sorry
that he must forsake the Marsh & River when he is daily fowling, &
never kills any Game. At Dinner we had the Company of Dr Franks[107]
who has been all along Mr Carters Clerk; but is now leaving Him. We
had a large Pye cut to Day to signify the Conclusion of the Holidays.
I drew, this afternoon more Flowers for Miss Prissy.
[107] Dr. Henry Francks of Westmoreland County.
_Thursday 30._
Dr Franks is moving, he has lived in the House adjoining our School.
The morning is fine, I rose by eight, breakfasted at ten, Miss Prissy
& Nancy are to-Day Practising Music one on the Forte Piano, the other
on the Guitar, their Papa allows them for that purpose every Teusday,
& Thursday. Ben is gone to the Quarter to see to the measuring the
crop of Corn. On his return in the Evening, when we were sitting &
chatting, among other things he told me that we must have a
House-warming, seeing we have now got possession of the whole
House--It is a custom here whenever any _person_ or _Family_ move into
a _House_, or repair a house they have been living in before, they
make a _Ball_ & give a Supper--So we because we have gotten Possession
of the whole House, are in compliance with Custom, to invite our
Neighbours, and dance, and be merry--But poor me! I must hobble, or
set quiet in the Corner!
_Fryday 31._
I rose at eight. _Ben_ gone again to the quarter--_Harriot_ to Day for
the first time said all her letters--
The Colonel shewed me after Dinner a new invention, which is to be
sure his own, for tuning his _Harpischord_ & _Forte-Piano_: it is a
number of _Whistles_, of various Sizes so as to sound all the Notes in
one Octave. At twelve o-Clock Mr _Carter_ ordered his Boy to bring two
Horses, and himself & Miss _Prissy_ rode out for an airing as the Day
is vastly fine--Assoon as the Bell rang & I had dismissed the Children
I took a walk in the Garden; When I had gone round two or three Platts
Mrs Carter entered and walked towards me, I then immediately turn'd
and met Her; I bowed--Remarked on the pleasantness of the Day--And
began to ask her some questions upon a Row of small slips--To all
which she made polite and full answers; As we walked along she would
move the Ground at the Root of some plant; or prop up with small
sticks the bended _scions_--We took two whole turns through all the
several Walks, & had such conversation as the _Place_ and _Objects_
naturally excited--And after Mrs Carter had given some orders to the
Gardiners (for there are two Negroes Gardiners by Trade, who are
constantly when the Weather will any how permit working in it) we
walked out into the _Area_ viewed some Plumb-Trees, when we saw Mr
Carter and Miss Prissy returning--We then repaired to the Slope before
the front-Door where they dismounted--and we all went into the Dining
Room. I shall in a proper time describe the great-House, & the several
smaller ones in its neighbourhood; the _Area_, _Poplar-Walk_,
_Garden_, & _Pasture_: In the mean time I shall only say, they
discover a delicate and Just Tast, and are the effect of great
_Invention_ & _Industry,_ & _Expence_. At Dinner we were conversing on
the seasons of the Year, & giving our different opinions of which of
the Seasons we each thought most agreeable: Mrs Carter chose the
Months of October, November & December, her reasons were, that we are
always most sensible of pleasure when it succeeds Axiety & Pain;
therefore because these months immediately follow those in which there
is usually Thunder & Lightning & intense Heat, She thinks them most
pleasant: The Colonel agreed with her as to the Months but gave a
different Reason; He supposes that in these Months the Air is more
uniform and settled than at any other so long time in the year. I
preferr'd May, June, and July, because our Bodies at that Season are
generally sprightly, vigorous and healthy, and the world around us is
beautiful & growing to necessary perfection. Miss Prissy & Miss Nancy
were on my side.
Mrs Carter told the Colonel that he must not think her setled (for
they have been for a long time from this place in the City
_Williamsburg_, and only left it about a year and a half ago) till he
made her a park and stock'd it; while these and many other things were
saying, I was surprized at a Remark which Miss _Prissy_ made, "Why
Mama says she, you plan and talk of these things as tho' you should
never die"!
_Saturday January 1. 1774._
Another Year is gone! Last New years Day I had not the most remote
expectation of being now here in _Virginia_! Perhaps by the next I
shall have made a longer and more important Remove, from this to the
World of Spirits!
It is well worth the while, for the better improving of our time to
come to recollect and reflect upon the Time which we have spent; The
Season seems to require it; it will give entertainment at least,
perhaps much substantial pleasure too, to be able to make with a
considerable degree of certainty a review of the general course of our
Actions in the course of a year. This shall be my employment, so far
as I am able to recollect, when I shall have suitable time for the
fixing & laying my thoughts together--
In the mean time I observe that the Day is most pleasant, the wind is
West, not fresh; the air is void of clouds, but near the Earth is
smoky; the Ground is clear of Frost and setled, what can be finer? Mr
Carter Miss Prissy and myself were to have rode out for an Exercise at
twelve, but we were prevented by the coming of a Gentleman, Dr
_Fantleroy_,[108] to whom Mr Carter introduced me--
[108] Dr. Moore Fauntleroy (1743-1802) was the son of William
Fauntleroy of Naylor's Hole in Richmond County. Fauntleroy, who had
studied medicine in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, practiced in Essex County
after his return to Virginia in 1770.
After Dinner was finished which was about four o-Clock, Miss Prissy &
Myself, together with a Servant (for Mr Carter would not trust us
alone he said) rode on Horse-Back to Mr Turbuvilles, about three
quarters of a Mile distance; It is the first time I have been there,
the House is near, & in Sight, and the families intimate. I rode my
Horse for the first time since his misfortune. When we returned about
Candlelight, we found Mrs Carter in the yard seeing to the Roosting of
her Poultry; and the Colonel in the Parlour tuning his _Guitar_.
_Sunday 2._
The weather warm and Damp--The Family rode to Church to-day and are to
dine out. Mr Carter at my request, gave me the Keys of his Book-Cases
and allowed me to spend the Day alone in his Library.
The place seems suitable for Study, & the Day ought to be spent in
serious contemplation; therefore, as I proposed Yesterday, I shall
collect together and write down what I have been doing in the last
Year. But will my Life bear the review? Can I look upon my Actions and
not Blush! And shall I be no less careful, or have no better Success,
in the prosecution of my Duty the Year to come, if I shall be kept
alive to the Close of it?--
In the Beginning of the last year I was in Deerfield, in Cumberland
County New-Jersey, with the Rev'd Mr Green; Under him I studied the
Hebrew-Language and Divinity. I left the college the last of September
1772. After having setled my business at Home, I entered upon the
Study of Divinity with the Rev'd Andrew Hunter; I was with him about a
Month, and on the first of December I went to Mr _Green_ with a design
to acquaint myself with the Hebrew Tongue; he put me to the Grammar,
which I learn'd through, and read some Chapters in the Psalter in the
Course of the Winter: In Divinity, he advised me to read Ridgeleys
body of Divinity for a System: And he gave me several separate
treatisses on Repentance, Regeneration, Faith, &c, & towards spring
gave me subjects to consider in the Sermon-Way. Yet how barren am I
still? It is an arduous task to bring the Mind to close application; &
still greater to lay up and retain useful Knowledge. I continued with
Mr _Green_ & pursued my studies, I hope with some Success till August
1773. when I was solicited by Dr _Witherspoon_ to go into _Virginia_ &
teach in a Gentlemans Family--The Offer seem'd profitable; I was
encouraged by the Dr and was to have his Recommendation--I had
likewise myself a strong inclination to go--Yet I was in great Doubt,
& Wholly undetermined for some Weeks, because many of my friends, and
some of my near Relations opposed my leaving Home, and all seem'd
utterly unwilling to advise to go--It is time, according to the Course
of my Life they said that I was settling to some constant Employment,
and they told me I ought especially to enter with as great speed as
convenient into that plan of Life for which I have in particular had
my Education--That Virginia is sickly--That the People there are
profane, and exceeding wicked--That I shall read there no Calvinistic
Books, nor hear any Presbyterian Sermons--That I must keep much
Company, and therefore spend as much, very probably much more Money
than my Salary--These considerations unsettled for a while my mind--On
the other hand I proposed to myself the following advantages by
going--A longer opportunity for Study than my friends would willingly
allow me If I should remain at home--A more general acquaintance with
the manners of Mankind; and a better Knowledge of the Soil, & Commerce
of these neighbouring Provinces--And a more perfect acquaintance with
the Doctrines, & method of Worship in the established Church in these
Colonies, & especially with the Conduct of the Clergy of which there
have been so many bad reports--All these however when I had laid them
together, seem'd to overbear the others, so that I determined at last
to break through and go!--Here now I am in a strange Province; But I
am under no more nor stronger temptations to any kind of vice, perhaps
not so great as at Cohansie,--unless sometimes when I am solicited to
dance I am forc'd to blush, for my Inability--I have the opportunity
of living with Credit perfectly retired--in a well regulated
family--With a man of Sense--May God help me to walk in his fear &
Gloryfy his Name!--
_Monday 3d._
Last Evening, by Miss Prissy, I was complimented with an Invitation
from Mr _Turburville_ to Dine with Him tomorrow--Squire _Lee_[109] is
as Miss Prissy told me, preparing to make a splendid _Ball_, which is
to last four or five Days; we are to be invited!--But I must stay at
Home and read _Salust_--Mr Carter is at Richmond-Court, which is held
monthly here in every County. In the Evening Mr Warden, a young Scotch
Lawyer came home with him. I spent the Evening in the Parlour--After
Supper when I was call'd upon for my Tost I mentioned with Pleasure
Miss _Betsy Beaty_.
[109] Richard Lee of "Lee Hall."
_Teusday 4._
Rose by eight--Mr _Warden_ breakfasted with us. Miss Prissy befor
Breakfast, as it is her practising Day, gave us sundry Tunes on the
_Forte Piano_. I kept the children while twelve then as we were to
dine out, I dismiss'd them till morning, and prepar'd to ride--Mrs
Carter, Miss Sylla, and Miss Betsy rode in the Chariot, and set off
about half after twelve with three waiting men--Mr Carter, Ben, and
myself, waited, & left Home by half after one, we rode on Horse back,
and waited on ourselves--It was two o-Clock when we got to Mr
Turburvilles where we were to dine--We found there two Gentlemen, with
their Wives, and one of them had also a Son & Daughter Mr Booth also
came in a short time after us; So that there dined to day with Mr
Turburville to day besides his usual Family thirteen Persons.--And if
I mention the Waiting Men With the Carriages they were twenty. We had
an Elegant Dinner, but it did not in any thing exceed what is every
day at Mr _Carters_ Table.
--We all returned Home before Dark--In the Evening the Colonel is busy
in transposing Music, I have not been at any house since I left Home,
which, from the appearance of its Situation, and the Economy of the
Family, or any other apparent Convenience, I would so soon choose to
reside in as a tutor, as the one in which it is my lot to be
placed--The Family is most agreeable! Mr Carter is sensible judicious,
much given to retirement & Study; his Company, & conversation are
always profitable--His main Studies are _Law_ & _Music_, the latter of
which seems to be his darling Amusement--It seems to nourish, as well
as entertain his mind! And to be sure he has a nice well judging Ear,
and has made great advances in the Theory and Practice of music--
Mrs _Carter_ is prudent, always cheerful, never without Something
pleasant, a remarkable Economist, perfectly acquainted (in my Opinion)
with the good-management of Children, intirely free from all foolish
and unnecessary fondness, and is also well acquainted (for She has
always been used) with the formality and Ceremony which we find
commonly in high Life--Ben, the eldest, is a youth of genius: of a
warm impetuous Disposition; desirous of acquiring Knowledge, docile,
vastly inquisitive & curious in mercantile, and mechanical Matters, is
very fond of Horsses, and takes great pleasure in exercising
them--Bob, the other Brother, is By no means destitute of capacity, As
Mr Marshal who was his last Tutor has asserted, & as many now suppose:
He is extremely volatile & unsettled in his temper, which makes it
almost wholly impossible to fix him for any time to the same thing--On
which account he has made but very little advancement in any one
Branch of Study, and this is attributed to Barrenness of Genius--He is
slovenly, clumsy, very fond of Shooting, of Dogs, of Horses, But a
very stiff untoward _Rider_, good natur'd, pleased with the Society of
persons much below his Family, and Estate, and tho' quick and wrathful
in his temper, yet he is soon moderated, & easily subdued--Harry the
Nephew, is rather stoical, sullen, or saturnine in his make. He is
obstinate, tho' Steady, and makes a slow uniform advance in his
Learning, he is vastly kind to me, but in particular to my Horse, of
his health or Indisposition--Miss _Priscilla_, the eldest Daughter
about 16, is steady, studious, docile, quick of apprehension, and
makes good progress in what She undertakes; If I could with propriety
continue in the Family, I should require no stronger Inducement than
the Satisfaction I should receive by seeing this young Lady become
perfectly acquainted with any thing I propose so soon as I communicate
it to her, but the situation of my affairs makes it out of my power
to stay longer than a year; She is small of her age, has a mild
winning Presence, a sweet obliging Temper, never swears, which is here
a distinguished virtue, dances finely, plays well on key'd
Instruments, and is upon the whole in the first Class of the female
Sex.
_Nancy_ the Second, is not without some few of those qualities which
are by some (I think with great ill nature, and with little or no
truth) said to belong intirely to the fair Sex. I mean great
curiosity, Eagerness for superiority, Ardor in friend ship, But
bitterness and rage where there is enmity--She is not constant in her
disposition, nor diligent nor attentive to her business--But She has
her excellencies, She is cheerful, tender in her Temper, easily
managed by perswasion & is never without what seems to have been a
common Gift of Heaven, to the _fair-Sex_, the "_Copia Verborum_," or
readiness of Expression!--She is only beginning to play the _Guitar_,
She understands the Notes well, & is a graceful Dancer.
_Fanny_ next, is in her Person, according to my Judgment, the Flower
in the Family--She has a strong resemblance of her _Mama_ who is an
elegant, beautiful Woman--Miss Fanny seems to have a remarkable
Sedateness, & simplicity in her countenance, which is always rather
chearful than melancholy; She has nothing with which we can find Fault
in her Person, but has something in the Features of her Face which
insensibly pleases us, & always when She is in Sight draws our
Attention, & much the more because there seems to be for every
agreeable Feature a correspondent Action which improves & adorns it.
Betsy next is young, quiet, and obedient--Harriot is bold, fearless,
noisy and lawless; always merry, almost never displeased; She seems to
have a Heart easily moved by the force of Music; She has learned many
Tunes & can strike any Note, or Succession of Notes perfectly with the
Flute or Harpsichord, and is never wearied with the sound of Music
either vocal or _Instrumental_.
These are the Persons who are at present under my direction, & whose
general Character I have very imperfectly attempted to describe.
_Wednesday 5._
Rose at Seven. The morning very stormy. _Bob_ & _Nancy_ before
Breakfast had a quarrel--Bob called Nancy a Lyar; Nancy upbraided Bob,
on the other Hand, with being often flog'd by their Pappa; often by
the Masters in College; that he had stol'n Rum, & had got drunk; &
that he used to run away &c--These Reproaches when they were set off
with Miss Nancys truely feminine address, so violently exasperated
_Bob_ that he struck her in his Rage--I was at the time in my Chamber;
when I enter'd the Room each began with loud and heavy complaints, I
put them off however with sharp admonitions for better Behaviour.
The morning was so extremely stormy that I declin'd going to
Breakfast--All the others went my Breakfast was sent over--Immediately
after Breakfast Ben came over with a Message from Mr _Carter_, that he
desired me to correct _Bob_ severely immediately--Bob when I went into
School sat quiet in the corner, & looked sullen, and penitent; I gave
some orders to the Children, and went to my Room.--I sent for Bob--He
came crying--I told him his Fathers Message; he confess'd himself
guilty--I sent him to call up _Harry_--He came--I talked with them
both a long Time recommended Diligence, & good Behaviour, but
concluded by observing that I was obliged to comply with Mr Carter's
request; I sent _Harry_ therefore for some Whips.--_Bob_ and poor I
remained trembling in the chamber (for Bob was not more uneasy than I
it being the first attempt of the kind I have ever made)--The Whips
came!--I ordered Bob to strip!--He desired me to whip Him in his hand
in Tears--I told him no--He then patiently, & with great deliberation
took of his Coat and laid it by--I took him by the hand and gave him
four or five smart twigs; he cring'd, & bawld & promis'd--I repeated
then about eight more, & demanded and got immediately his solemn
promise for peace among the children, & Good Behaviour in general--I
then sent him down--He conducts himself through this day with great
Humility, & unusual diligence, it will be fine if it continues. At
noon I went over to Dinner, but it was storming, & continues so bad
that I choose rather to go without Supper than venture out in the
Storm.
_Thursday 6._
To Day about twelve _Bob_ & _Prissy_ & _Nancy_ went in the Chariot to
Stratford, to attend the Dancing-School--Mr Taylor,[110] the Colonels
principal Overseer dined with us--After School in the Evening, I sat
with _Betsy_ & _Fanny_ while they sung me many songs, When they had
done I waited on them Home, & spent the Evening with Mr & Mrs
_Carter_.
[110] The account books of Robert Carter show that William Taylor was
at this period overseer of three of Carter's plantations or
"quarters," called Dicks, Morgans and Rutters.
_Fryday 7._
The morning cold, muddy and drisly--Our School seems still, and
vacant. _Betsy_ & _Fanny_ at their Leisure are constantly knitting
with small smoth stiff straws, in imitation of their Sister _Sylla_,
who knits sometimes. The Colonel told me last Evening that he proposes
to make the vacant End of our School-Room, Where Dr Frank lived a
Concert-Room, to hold all his instruments of Music--As he proposes to
bring up from _Williamsburg_ his _Organ_, & to remove the
_Harpsichord_, _Harmonica_, _Forte-piano_, _Guittar_, _Violin_, &
_German-Flutes_, & make it a place for Practice, as well as
Entertainment.
This afternoon _Dennis_, a Boy of about twelve Years old, one of the
Waiters at Table, as he was standing in the front Door which is vastly
huge & heavy; the Door flew up, and drew off the Skin & Flesh from his
middle Finger caught between, took off the first Joint, and left the
Bone of the greater part of the Rest of the Finger naked.
_Saturday 8._
Catechised the Children, and dismiss'd them about ten. The morning
pleasant--Rode before Dinner to Mr Blains Store--Was introduced to Dr
_Thompson_,[111] Mr _Balantine_,[112] Mr _Carr_ a young Scotch-Man
Clerk, to Mr Blain; dined with Mr Blain. Parson _Smith_, his Wife, &
her Sister were there--Colonel Washington, his Wife, & their Daughter
Miss Jenny a young Lady of few words, a sanguine Countenance, and as
to her Size, something below what Ladies call elegant; neat but not
_flashy_ in her Dress; Some of her Dress I admired because I have seen
_Laura_ in the like, yit strongly shewed me that it is not Dress alone
I admire in Her. All these had been at a Widding in the country and
were returning--In Dr _Thomsons_ Room there was hanging against the
Wall a Skeleton!--Balantine, either to shew himself a true
full-blooded Buck, or out of mere wantonness & pastime turned the
Bones (as they were fixed together with Wires) into many improper and
indecent postures; but this officious industry met with such reception
from the company as it Justly merited, and as I wish'd might happen;
for they gave visible signs of their contempt of his Behaviour--About
Six in the Evening the Chariot returned with _Bob_, Miss _Prissy_ &
_Nancy_ from the Dance at _Stratford_--They brought News as follows:
Miss Prissy told us, that they had an elegant Dance on the Whole; that
Colonel Philip Lee, where they met to Dance, was on Fryday, at the
Wedding of which I made mention Just now; that Mr _Christian_ the
Master danced several Minuets, prodigiously beautiful; that Captain
Grigg (Captain of an English Ship) danced a Minuet with her; that he
hobled most dolefully, & that the whole Assembly laughed!--_Bob_ told
us that there was a Race between Mr ---- And Colonels Horses--that
they run a Mile, & that _Dottrell_[113] belonging to Mr ---- won the
Race;--_Bob_ told me in private, after we were alone in my Room, that
Colonel Lee took an Opportunity, & asked him in the Hearing of a large
company at Supper, what sort of _Fellow_ he is whom your _Papa_ had
provided for your _Tutor_--_Bob_ told me that for answer he Informed
him I was good and agreeable--That Miss Jenny Corbin, (a young Lady
with whom I have had the greatest Opportunity of being acquainted, of
any young Lady in Virginia) gave him so favourable an Account of my
Behaviour, that he was pleased to say He should be glad to see me at
his House, & of my company--But after having heard this much, I shall
esteem myself pardonable, & shall always think it proper to refuse
without thanks his warmest Invitations; & will plead for my excuse
nothing else than mere inclination.
[111] Thomas Thompson was a well known physician of Westmoreland
County. Robert Carter retained the services of Thompson for the blacks
on his plantations for a number of years.
[112] Probably James Balendine of the firm referred to in the Carter
account books as "Messrs. James Balendine & Co."
[113] "Dotterell" was an English blooded horse that had been bred by
Sir John Pennington. He was regarded as the swiftest in that country
with the exception of one, called "Eclipse." Dotterell had been
imported into the colony in 1766 by Philip Ludwell Lee of "Stratford"
in Westmoreland County.
[Illustration: man at writing table in bed chamber]
In the Evening about seven o-Clock it snowed exceeding fast til Eight
when it ceased, it being the second Snow we had this winter here, At
Supper we had much conversation about the Dance. Mrs Carter & myself,
sat while ten and the Colonel read philosophy.
_Sunday 9._
The Morning very cold--None from our Family went to church; _Bob_
beg'd of me to let him go, I refused him; he then asked to go and dine
with Mr Turburville, I gave him no liberty.--I wrote to-Day a letter
to _Laura_, I wish it _speed_ & _Success_--I wrote also a letter to Mr
_Bryan_ in Baltimore; Another to the Gentleman who keeps the "Fountain
Inn" in _Baltimore_; & one to Dr _John Beaty_--_Bob_ returned in the
Evening after having stole away and spent the day at Mr _Turburvill's_
with a Note to his Papa from Squire _Lee_, in which Mr Carter & his
Family are invited to the Ball at his House on Monday the 17th Instant
But I must stay alone.
[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]
Nominy-Hall. Virginia. Jan: 9th: 1774.
TO LAURA.
The long Distance there is between us, & Uncertainty of the
Conveyance, makes it improper for me to write what I wish to tell you.
I may not, however, neglect to acquaint you that you still possess the
largest earthly Share of my Regard; & that my Fidelity towards you is
unshaken & inviolable.
I continue this Winter, by the Kindness of Heaven, in perfect Health;
& expect to return by the last of April next, if no Accident comes
between, when I promise myself Madam, much Pleasure, much Peace in
your Company.
The Family in which I live, is so kind, & suitable to my Wish, that I
would gladly continue in it--Or, at least, provide some well-qualified
Person to succeed me since I must by previous Agreement, shortly leave
it, as I do not propose to let my coming here put off my entering on
the Great-World.
If I shall be so happy as to meet with you in the Spring, I will tell
you many curious Occurrences of this Winter; but none with greater
Truth than that I have been your constant Admirer.
PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.
[JOURNAL]
_Monday 10th_
The Morning very cold--Dined with us to-day Mr _Sanford_ a Captain of
a Sloop which trades out of _Potowmack_ to _Norfolk_--I wrote out some
Exercises for _Bob_ & _Harry_--In the Evening the Colonel began with a
small Still to distill some Brandy from a Liquor made of Pisimmonds. I
set Ben this Evening to writing. I likewise gave _Catalines_ Speech in
_Salust_ to commit to memory in Latin, which he is to pronounce
Extempore. In the Evening I borrowed of _Ben Carter_ 15s.--I have
plenty of Money with me, but it is in Bills of Philadelphia currency &
will not pass at all here.
_Teusday 11._
The morning very cold--As cold I think, and the Frost seems to be as
intense & powerful as I have ever known it either at Cohansie or at
Princeton. This morning I put Ben to construe some Greek, he has yet
no Testament, I gave him therefore Esops Fables in Greek, and Latin. I
also took out of the Library, and gave him to read Gordon, upon
Geography. Ben seem'd scared with his Greek Lesson, he swore, & wished
for Homer that he might kick Him, as he had been told Homer invented
Greek.
_Wednesday 12._
I gave _Sam_ Mr Carters Barber, for shaving & dressing me, & for
mending my Shoes, two pisterenes, which pass here for half a
Crown--The morning is serene, pleasant, but cold yet. Miss _Hariot_
this morning being over curious tasted some Mercury Mixture in Mr
_Randolph's_ Room, it made her very sick; I was frighted, the family
was frighted! she puked, & threw it off her Stomach, & was soon
relieved--
I gave _Martha_ who makes my Bed, for a Christmas Box, a _Bit_, which
is a pisterene cut into two equal parts--I gave to John also, who
waits at Table & calls me to Supper a _Bit_. So that My whole Expence
to-Day has been _3/9_. Mrs Carter invited me to Day to go to the Ball,
I excused myself, & declined it.
_Thursday 13._
Mr Cunningham came before Noon to skait--At twelve we all went down to
Mr Carters Millpond--none had skaits but Mr Cunningham--we diverted
ourselves on the Ice til two, when we went up to dinner--Immediately
after Dinner Mr _Carter_ Miss _Prissy_ & _Nancy_ rode out to Mr
_Lanes_.--Mr _Cunningham_ staid the Night, Prissy play'd for us--She
has since I came made great advances--
_Fryday 14._
The morning very foggy, & warmer--I gave to Tom the Coach-man who
cured my Horse two _pisterenes_ & half a _Bit_, which is two &
ninepence 2/9. Mr Cunningham breakfasted with us--When I went into
School there came a complaint from Miss _Sally Stanhope_[114] of _Bob_
that he was rude, swore, & quarrell'd at Breakfast, poor untoward,
unfortunate Boy he gives me great Trouble--
[114] Miss Sarah Stanhope was the housekeeper at "Nomini Hall."
_Saturday 15._
I rose at seven--The morning fair the ground muddy--_Ben_ asked me to
ride with him to Mr Blains Store I chose rather to stay at Home--Ben
is preparing for the approaching Ball--Bob urged me to let him go to
Mr Lees, but he is so unruly & mischeivous when abroad that I was
obliged to refuse him the liberty of going. I spent some hours to Day
with the Girls when they were practising Music on the Guitar, &
Forte-piano, Priscilla plays her tunes true and exceeding finely--In
the Evening _Ben_ returned from Mr Blains--He told me the Store was
thronged with company--Sup'd on chocolate, & hoe-Cake, so called
because baked on a Hoe before the fire--The Colonel and his Daughter
busy at Music.
_Sunday 16._
The morning frosty & cold--_Ben_, _Bob_, _Harry_, & Mr _Randolph_ went
to Church--I stay at Home; Read Pictete--I feel very desirous of
seeing Home: of hearing good Mr Hunter Preach; of seeing my dear
Brothers & Sister; Indeed the very soil itself would be precious to
me!--I am shut up in my chamber; I read a while, then walk to the
North window, & look over Potowmack through Maryland towards Home;
then throw myself down into my Chair again & console myself that I
have every necessary, & convenient Accommodation here, which I should
have; nay much more than I should allow myself were I at Home. I am
contented--This whole world is only a Point almost unnoticeable, when
compared with the numerous _Systems_ which compose the _universe_, &
yet they all are under the particular Direction & Government of
_Almighty God_; How insignificant therefore is it for me and how
foolish to be uneasy, & solicitous whether I live in _Cohansie_, in
_Princeton_, or in _Virgininia_; Or in _America_, or in _Europe_, so
long as I am still supported, & upheld by the Divine Agency!--I am
fully satisfied--Guide me, propitious Heaven! Help me to Glorify my
God; To honour the holy Religion which I profess; & If I shall be
fitted, & introduced to the Ministry, may I still go on and be of
advantage to my fellow Mortals!--
Evening, The Boys are returned; _Bob_ brings me the _parsons_
Compliments; Mr _Cunninghams_; & that Miss Corbin enquired If I was
well!--Bob [also] informed me that the _Parson_, Mr _Blain_,
_Cunningham_, _Balantine_, & others are to come to Captain
_Turburvilles_ Mill-Pond to Skate before they go to the Ball--
_Monday 17._
At Breakfast the Colonel gave orders to the Boys concerning their
conduct this Day, & through the course of the Ball--He allows them to
go; to stay all this Night; to bring him an Account of all the company
at the Ball; & to return tomorrow Evening--All the morning is spent in
Dressing.--Mr Carter & Mrs Carter pressed me to go; But, mindful of my
Promise when I left Home, I stay and enjoy myself in quiet.--I give
the Children a Holiday to Day--I gave Dennis the Waiter half a Bit a
Present--Mrs _Carter_, Miss _Prissy_, & _Nancy_ dressed splendidly set
away from Home at two.
_Teusday 18._
Mrs _Carter_, & the young Ladies came Home last Night from the Ball, &
brought with them Mrs _Lane_, they tell us there were upwards of
Seventy at the Ball; forty one Ladies; that the company was genteel; &
that Colonel _Harry Lee_,[115] from _Dumfries_, & his Son _Harrey_ who
was with me at College, were also there; Mrs Carter made this an
argument, and it was a strong one indeed, that to-day I must dress &
go with her to the Ball--She added also that She Desired my Company in
the Evening when she should come Home as it would be late--After
considering a while I consented to go, & was dressed--we set away from
Mr Carters at two; Mrs _Carter_ & the young Ladies in the Chariot, Mrs
Lane in a Chair, & myself on Horseback--As soon as I had handed the
Ladies out, I was saluted by Parson _Smith_; I was introduced into a
small Room where a number of Gentlemen were playing Cards, (the first
game I have seen since I left Home) to lay off my Boots
Riding-Coat&c--Next I was directed into the Dining-Room to see Young
Mr _Lee_; He introduced me to his Father--With them I conversed til
Dinner, which came in at half after four. The Ladies dined first, when
some Good order was preserved; when they rose, each nimblest Fellow
dined first--The Dinner was as elegant as could be well expected when
so great an Assembly were to be kept for so long a time.--For Drink,
there was several sorts of Wine, good Lemon Punch, Toddy, Cyder,
Porter &c.--About Seven the Ladies & Gentlemen begun to dance in the
Ball-Room--first Minuets one Round; Second Giggs; third Reels; And
last of All Country-Dances; tho' they struck several Marches
occasionally--The Music was a French-Horn and two Violins--The Ladies
were Dressed Gay, and splendid, & when dancing, their Silks & Brocades
rustled and trailed behind them!--But all did not join in the Dance
for there were parties in Rooms made up, some at Cards; some drinking
for Pleasure; some toasting the Sons of america; some singing "Liberty
Songs" as they call'd them, in which six, eight, ten or more would put
their Heads near together and roar, & for the most part as
unharmonious as an affronted--Among the first of these Vociferators
was a young Scotch-Man, Mr _Jack Cunningham_; he was nimis bibendo
appotus; noisy, droll, waggish, yet civil in his way & wholly
inoffensive--I was solicited to dance by several, Captain Chelton,
Colonel Lee, Harry Lee, and others; But George Lee,[116] with great
Rudeness as tho' half drunk, asked me why I would come to the Ball &
neither dance nor play Cards? I answered him shortly, (for his
Impudence moved my resentment) that my Invitation to the Ball would
Justify my Presence; & that he was ill qualified to direct my
Behaviour who made so indifferent a Figure himself--Parson Smiths, &
Parson Gibberns Wives danced, but I saw neither of the Clergymen
either dance or game[117]--At Eleven Mrs Carter call'd upon me to go,
I listned with gladness to the summons & with Mrs Lane in the Chariot
we rode Home, the Evening sharp and cold!--I handed the Ladies out,
waited on them to a warm Fire, then ran over to my own Room, which was
warm and had a good Fire; oh how welcome! Better this than to be at
the Ball in some corner nodding, and awaked now & then with a midnight
Yell!--In my Room by half after twelve; & exceeding happy that I could
break away with Reputation.--
[115] Colonel Henry Lee of "Leesylvania."
[116] Apparently George Fairfax Lee of "Mount Pleasant."
[117] Parson Giberne was not so fortunate in escaping criticism on
other occasions. Fithian, himself, notes his gambling several times,
and the Reverend Jonathan Boucher, Landon Carter and Robert Wormeley
Carter all comment upon it in their journals.
_Wednesday 19._
Rose at Nine while the Bell was ringing--Breakfasted at ten, Mr
_Carter_ and I alone, the Ladies yet in Bed--I gave the Children the
third Holiday; _Bob_ _Ben_ & _Harry_ are yet at the Dance--Mrs Carter
declines going to Day, I took a Walk out before Dinner, & with my
Pen-knife carved _Laura's_ much admired Name, upon a smooth beautiful
Beech-Tree--Towards Evening Mrs Lane left us & rode home--_Bob_ came
Home about six, but so sleepy that he is actually stupified!--
_Thursday 20._
_Ben_ came Home late in the Night--This morning he looks fatigued out.
We began to study to Day but all seem sleepy and dull. Dined with us
to-day Mr _Lee_ a Gentleman from Augusta County, who has lately been
to the Settlements on Ohio.
Evening I began some Verses on Miss Carter for a present at the
approaching Valantine[118]--But I drew the Picture from Laura.
[118] See this valentine in Appendix, pp. 230-233.
_Fryday 21._
All seem tolerably recruited this morning; we hear, the company left
the Ball last Evening, quite wearied out; tho' the Colonel intreated
them to stay the proposed Time.
To Day about twelve came to Mr _Carters_ Captain _John Lee_, a
Gentleman who seems to copy the Character of _Addisons Will Wimble_.
When I was on my way to this place I saw him up in the country at
Stafford; he was then just sallying out on his Winters Visit, & has
got now so far as here, he stays, as I am told about eight, or ten
Weeks in the year at his own House, the remaining part he lives with
his waiting Man on his Friends.--
_Saturday 22._
Captain Lee with us to Day--The Weather cold; I set in my Room all Day
working at my Verses for Miss Carter.
_Sunday 23._
None went to Church on account of the Cold--Afternoon the Sun shone
fair--I took my Horse & rode about a Mile & returned--Captain _Lee_
left us this Day.
_Monday 24._
Still very cold snows some--Dined with us Colonel _Frank_ L.
_Lee_,[119] & Colonel _Harrison_ of Maryland--Miss _Nancy_ unwel of a
cold.--There are great Professions of Liberty here expressed in Songs
Toasts, &c. Yesterday News came of the Arrival of Ships with Tea; into
_Boston_, _New-york_, _Philadelphia_. & of the New-Yorkers burning the
House of his Excellency Governor _Tryon_. for having said that, if
orders concerning the Tea had been transmitted to him he would have
landed it tho' under the mouths of the Cannon!--Gentlemen here in
general applaud & honour our Northern Colonies for so manly, &
patriotic Resistance!--
[119] Francis Lightfoot Lee (1734-1797) of "Menokin" in Richmond
County was the fourth son of President Thomas Lee of "Stratford." His
wife was Rebecca Tayloe, a daughter of Colonel John Tayloe of "Mount
Airy." Lee served as a member of the House of Burgesses from Loudoun
County and later from Richmond County.
_Teusday 25._
Still sharp & cold--Miss Nancy much indisposed with a sore
throat--Dined with us Mr _Cunningham_. Toasts the _King_, _Queen_,
_Governor_ & _Colonel_, of _Virginia_. Northern Sons of Liberty. & a
good price for our comodities.--This Day the Person who carried my
Letters to Baltimore returned without any Letters or Intelligence.
_Wednesday 26._
The weather this morning seems to have moderated--Miss _Nancy_ is
poorly but better--In the Evening I ran a Foot Race with Ben & Harry
fo exercise, & a prize of ten Apples to the winner. We ran from the
School-House round the stable, & Kitchen & Great-House which Distance
is about 70 Rod--I came out first about One Rod; but almost wholly
spent; I went to my Chamber and lay down, sick, fainty, & quite
distressed. I puked several times; after having rested a while,
however, I revived & went well to Supper, & Spend the Evening in
Writing. At Supper from the conversation I learned that the slaves in
this Colony never are married, their Lords thinking them improper
Subjects for so valuable an Institution!--
_Thursday 27._
The morning mild Serene and moderate--The Colonel is making
preparations for a Journey to _Anapolis_, where he Designs next Month.
In the Evening, (for here they call the time between Dinner and
day-light-End Evening,) He & Mrs Carter shewed me their House; the
original Design, the present form; & what is yet to be Done--Miss
_Nancy_ came down stairs to Day--
_Fryday 28._
Snows this morning Briskly--Ben in a great Fever lest the Weather
shall stop him from a Ride he has alloted for tomorrow--At twelve the
Snow ceased, Depth about five Inches--I corrected _Harry_ for the
first time to-day for expressing himself indecently to _Prissy_.
[Illustration: room full of smoke]
_Saturday 29._
_Ben_ is preparing himself to go out--while we were dining about three
it began to Snow briskly--After Dinner when I went over to my Room I
was very much surprised to find my Room full of Smoke & Flame!--A kind
Providence only prevented the total Loss of our School-House & all its
Furniture, & our own Clothes Books &c!--A Coal of Fire had by accident
(as the Hearth is very narrow) fall'n on the floor, it took fire, &
when I entered it was burning rapidly--It had burnt three Boards about
eight Inches from the Hearth, & most certainly in a short time would
have been inextinguishable--I put it out however speedily, & had all
the fire removed--
The Weather is as wintry here in every Respect as I have ever known
it in New-Jersey--Mr Carter has a Cart & three pair of Oxen which
every Day bring in four Loads of Wood, Sundays excepted, & yet these
very severe Days we have none to spare; And indeed I do not wonder,
for in the _Great House_, _School_ House, Kitchen, &c. there are
twenty Eight steady fires! & most of these are very Large!--After
Supper, when all had retired but Mrs Carter, Mr Carter & Myself, the
Conversation being on serious Matters, Mr Carter observed that he much
dislikes the common method of making Burying Yards round Churches, &
having them almost open to every Beast--He would have them at some
small distance from the Church, neatly & strongly inclosed, and the
Graves kept up decent, & plain, but would have no splendid, nor
magnificent Monument, nor even Stone to say "Hic jacet."--He told us
he proposes to make his own Coffin & use it for a Chest til its proper
use shall be required--That no Stone, nor Inscription to be put over
him--And that he would choose to be laid under a shady Tree where he
might be undisturbed, & sleep in peace & obscurity--He told us, that
with his own hands he planted, & is with great diligence raising a
_Catalpa_-Tree at the Head of his Father who lies in his Garden--Mrs
Carter beg'd that She might have a Stone, with this only for a
Monument, "Here lies _Ann Tasker Carter_."[120] with these things for
my consideration I left them about ten and went to my cold Room, & was
hurried soon to Bed; Not however without reflecting on the importance
of our preparation for this great Change!
[120] Frances Ann Tasker Carter died in 1787 and was buried in the
family graveyard at "Nomini Hall." Her husband, who died seventeen
years later, was buried in Baltimore.
_Sunday 30._
Very stormy this morning with Rain and Hail which instantly freezes;
the trees hang bending with Ice, & the ways are all glassy &
slippery--None think of going to Church this day--Mrs Carter & I after
Breakfast had a long conversation on religious affairs--Particularly
on differing Denominations of Protestants--She thinks the Religion of
the established Church without Exception the best of any invented or
practised in the world. & indeed she converses with great propriety on
these things, & discovers her very extensive Knowledge; She allows the
Difference between the Church, & Presbyterianism to be only exceeding
small, & wishes they were both intirely united! Through this whole Day
it storms but the Evening is terrible! almost an Inundation of Rain;
The wind violent at North-East; The Snow, Hail, and Rain freezing
together on the Ground! This Evening the Negroes collected themselves
into the School-Room, & began to play the _Fiddle_, & dance--I was in
Mr Randolphs Room;--I went among them, _Ben_, & _Harry_ were of the
company--_Harry_ was dancing with his Coat off--I dispersed them
however immediately.
_Monday 31._
Excessive sloppy--Miss _Nancy_ came to School to Day--I finished my
verses which are to be presented as a Valantine to Miss _Prissy
Carter_.
_Teusday February 1st 1774._
Fair & mild but vastly muddy--About twelve Squire _Lee_ & young _Harry
Lee_, who was a College-Fellow, came to see us. They staid while about
five. The Toasts at Dinner were as usual--The Colonel & Mrs Carter
seem Much pleased with Harry, & with his manner.
_Wednesday 2._
The weather vastly fine. At twelve o-Clock the Colonel & Miss _Prissy_
rode out for an airing--_Prissy_ This day began Multiplication. We had
also a large elegant Writing Table brought to us, so high that the
Writers must stand.
_Thursday 3._
Prissy, & Nancy practising music--We had last night Thunder,
Lightning, & a very great shower.
_Fryday 4._
I put Ben this day into virgil--We had our Room mended & came into
it--at twelve I rode out to Mr Taylors about two Miles, in again by
Dinner-Time--Dined with us one Mrs Hut--This Evening, in the
School-Room, which is below my Chamber, several Negroes & _Ben,_ &
_Harry_ are playing on a _Banjo_ & dancing!--
_Saturday 5:_
I spent the morning in my Room, _Ben_, & _Bob_ are gone out. About
twelve came on a visit Mr _Goodlett_, & _Saml Fantleroy_;[121] I spent
the remainder of the day with them.--At Dinner when call'd upon for a
Toast I gave Miss _Sally Hollinshead_. Mr Goodlett told me he has had
an Invitation, to accept a School in _Leeds_,[122] a town on the River
Rapahannock, about 25 Miles from this up & across the Country.
[121] Samuel Griffin Fauntleroy (1759-1826) was the son of Moore
Fauntleroy of "The Cliffs" in Richmond County.
[122] Leedstown was a thriving center of trade and shipping. It had
been incorporated in 1742.
_Sunday 6._
I rode to Church; Mrs Carter & Miss Prissy & Nancy were out--Mr Smith
gave us a Sermon 14 Minutes long on Charite--But poor Fellow he seem'd
Cold as his Subject! Mr Fantleroy; & Mr Goodlett dined with us and set
off for Home as soon as we rose from Dinner--This day two Negro
Fellows the Gardiner & cooper, wrangled; & at last fought; It happened
hard however for the Cooper, who is likely to lose one of his Eyes by
that Diabolical Custom of gouging which is in common practise among
those who fight here--Evening Ben returned; he has been into
Northumland to see one Mr _Jones_. Mr Goodlett, to Day, shewed me a
piece of his own performance, a paraphrase on part of the Book of Job,
done in Lattin-Verse.
_Monday 7._
The Day pleasant, & seems to have some appearance of Spring--Mr Blain
call'd this Affternoon, & told us that by a Letter he hears Lady
_Dunmore_ is arrived from New-York[123]--and that many good & wealthy
Families arrived in the same Ship--It is indeed amazing, & it will
soon astonish the whole World, to consider the Rapidity of the growth
of these Colonies--
[123] John Murray, Earl of Dunmore, served as Governor of the colony
from 1771 to 1775. Lady Dunmore did not arrive in Virginia to join him
until the latter part of February of 1774.
At Supper, Mr Carter informed me it is his purpose to manifacture
30.000 Bushels of wheat in his New-Mill which is yet scarcely
finished.
_Teusday 8._
Before Breakfast _Nancy_ & _Fanny_ had a Fight about a Shoe Brush
which they both wanted--Fanny pull'd off her Shoe & threw at Nancy,
which missed her and broke a pane of glass of our School Room. they
then enter'd upon close scratching &c. which methods seem instinctive
in
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