Florence
Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1933.
Index
Dear Master, for this coming year
Just one request I bring;
I do not pray for happiness
Or
any earthly thing;
I do not ask to understand
The
way thou leadest me,
But this I ask: Teach me to do
The
thing that pleaseth thee.
I want to know thy guiding
voice,
To
walk with thee each day,
Dear Master, make me swift to hear
And
ready to obey;
And thus the year I now begin
A
happy year will be,
If I am seeking just to do
The
thing that pleaseth thee.
Sun.
Jan. 1
And
now 1933 has begun! Where will we be when it ends. Course
I’d
like to be wherever the boys are - but wish most awfully it
would be
out here. We drove to Narok as usual. I’m not a bit nervous.
I
only wish the girls weren’t but they really are very kind.
Miss
Glover handles the brake - it helps a lot.
Mon.
Jan. 2
Wanjeri
& Susana washed together. Takes less water & less
time. Had
an awful storm this P.M. of hail & rain. At first the
hail was
very large. Then got smaller & more of it. I go to class
from
10-12. Am trying to get some letters off too.
Tues.
Jan. 3
Mulungit
is here again. Spoke to us & came here & sat on
veranda &
talked with Jno some. Has been sick in Nairobi hospital for
3 mos.
he said. How well I remember a year go. [visit from Rainbow
family] Class is very interesting. I need the grammar review
much.
Wed.
Jan. 4
Nolmisheni
is not well. Susana is helping her some. Wanjeri still
ironing
today. Prayer mtg tonight. Getting more letters ready. Got a
few
off this morning.
Thur.
Jan. 5
Thot
Nolmishenis baby would be here before this but not yet.
Prayer mtg
this P.M. Sent Morima for letters but post didn’t come in
time. Guess we’ll let it go til Sat. tho there might be
something
important.
Fri.
Jan. 6
Remember
last yr. so well. [camping, low on food] Fear we should take
Nol. to
hospital nothing doing yet. Took Christmas decorations down
. Went
swimming. Girls are trying so hard to get me onto
it. I was
quite stiff from last nights go. Skoda will be here
tomorrow.
Sat.
Jan. 7
Had
tea by 10. Miss Glover made scones. Then went below the
falls
fishing. I wrote Lora & lost my nice pen. Went back
& lookt
but didn’t find it. Telegram that Skoda isn’t coming now at
all. The Bridge builder. Piece of
bacon came
from Farnsworth. I sent order to Duncans.
Sun.
Jan. 8
Meetings
as usual. Communion not many took. Went to hosp. Tameno is
getting
better - asked ab’t Nol - as she is still in pain. She
doesn’t
want to go there. Mail came too late we couldn’t wait for
it.
Mon.
Jan. 9
Jack
went for mail. Nothing much. Wanjeri & Susana did not
wash. Dr. wrote he & F’s might be out on Wed. We wish
for word from
Buxton, ab’t his coming.
Tues.
Jan. 10
Today
we washed but had trouble getting it dry - as it kept
showering. Today while in class Mr. Clarkes things came to
his place & we
expected him tonight but he hasn’t come.
Wed.
Jan. 11
Dr.
& F’s drove in just after rest. Glad to see them. They
brot
peaches. Yum! & butter etc etc. Mrs. was pretty tired
& all
went to bed early. Mrs Probst arrived on Sat. alright. They
brot
our letters - nice lot.
Thur.
Jan. 12
Mrs
F’s birthday but I didn’t bake a cake but a lemon pie.
Boiled
some of the very ripe peaches. The 3 men went to Narosero -
are very
tired tonight it was so windy & dusty. I made
out the
annual report for Dr. to fix up. Every body to bed early.
Glad we
didn’t go with them.
Fri.
Jan. 13
Folks
got away by 8:30. Jack brot mail. Mended sewed up lavender
sweater. Miss Grindley finished the sleeves. Now I can put
away the brown
one - it is rather ragged looking. Jno working at the bridge
to old
log. Mr. F. helpt get it started. Most done now.
Sat.
Jan. 14
Baked
bread & pie & peach things & boiled the rest of
the soft
ones. We still have lots to eat raw. Jno finished the bridge
&
they all fished there but Jno only caught 4 tiny
shenzis. Girls went to the pier & caught some talapia.
Wanjeri went to
see the Dr. A car drove into Clarkes we suppose it was he.
We ate
at pond. Peach fritters.
Sun.
Jan. 15
No,
Mr. C. did not come in. We went to Narok as usual & this
time
brot the mail & the boxes of groceries. but not yet the
one
Scudder got before Xmas. The fruit is lovely & we are
already
enjoying it. We like the peaches too. boiled up most now as
they
were going. Good Keswick reading.
Mon.
Jan. 16
Morima
& Susana washed. All dry & ready to iron. I’ll help
a
bit. It’s strange we have no word from Buxton. Tho Housdens
say
he was then at Lotome. He may not get here at all.
Tues.
Jan. 17
Ironing
all done. Wanjeri hasn’t returned yet. just Morima &
Jack in
kitchen. Quite a good rain today - but tank isn’t full yet.
Girls
caught nice lot of small talapia.
Wed.
Jan. 18
Lots
of threatening clouds but no rain. heavy dew. keeps things
from
dying. Jack took letters. Cutting rug rags for women to sew
next
week. Will ask the baptized ones.
Thur.
Jan. 19
Sent
Morima for mail but he hasn’t returned. We told him to stay
if it
didn’t come. Thin white cat is missing & her 2 kittens
are
orphans. Hope she will return. She has never staid away very
long. 8 out to prayer mtg.
Fri.
Jan. 20
Getting
Jnos things together. We had prayer service this P.M. by our
selves. Mr. Clarke came home about 5 & came up for
supper. We went down
for music. We 3 knitted. Miss Glover is doing a cap. Miss
Grindley
a sweater of green. Grindley got all the mail.
Sat.
Jan. 21
Took
Jno to juncture of the 2 roads where we waited for Hajee
Aboo lorry. Had tea & it came ab’t 11. Had a bad head
all day. Don’t
feel like eating nor thinking even. Better this eve. Rested
&
wrote this P.M.
Sun.
Jan. 22
Sitoya
spoke here to a fair crowd - 34. Then we went to Narok. Had
to
refuse rides to several. It was so black threatening we
divided our
forces. Grindley & Susana to hospital & we 3 to
school. 40
children there. Had only short mt’g. No rain there &
almost
none here!
Mon.
Jan. 23
Susana
& Morima washed. Rained a bit this eve. The tire that is
jagged
has the tube bulging thro again so asked Mr. Clarke if I
better
change it & he says yes. I want to get wood this week so
need it
fixed. Wrote Aunt Lorene birthday letter.
Tues.
Jan. 24
One
surely never can tell what a day may bring forth - for ab’t
4 P.M.
Mr. Scudder came in - having walked from the plain. Says he
came to
get us. He just felt we should be there. J. said he doubted
if we’d
leave but perhaps its best for the girls as well as me. So
we are
going in our car tomorrow.
Wed.*
Jan. 25
Up
at day & off by 8:20. At top of long grade tire came
down. Worked hard for 1 hr. 15 min. then on to the big tree
for lunch. At
Holmans a bit after 2. Very bad head. Girls are at R.V.A.
Jno &
Holman to Stevensons for birthday supper. I went to bed
after taking
10 grs of asperin - had taken 10 grs genasperin earlier.
Thur.
Jan. 26
Went
to 9 A.M. meeting. Rev. Pitt Pitts spoke so good. So
nice to
see every one. I stay at Holmans Jno sleeps here & eats
at
R.V.A. He is glad we brot the car. I’m not peppy today
didn’t
go to biz. but to hear Pitt Pitts tonight. Devitts for
supper. us
all 5 & Miss Rheinhart from Congo. Holman had us all to
dinner.
Fri.
Jan. 27
Shaffers
came this eve. Holman had our family to supper again. Innis
had
A.M. mtg. No one yet has been found for Sun. Holman &
Dr.
served tea. Afterwards the 5 young folks rode mules up to
the
gardens. Womens mtg tonight. Letter from Buxton. He can’t
come
for another week at least. So Scudder can take us home if
Skoda
can’t.
Sat.
Jan. 28
Mr
Barnett A.M. Biz PM & after tea I took B.C.M.Sers &
Janzens
to the girls home. MBI mtg tonight but Jno did not want to
go so we
both staid home. Bathed & to bed early. I was at R.V.A.
to
dinner yesterday. Mrs Knapp here. Also Mrs Keller.
Sun.
Jan. 29
As
no one offered for the meeting Jno took the sermon part
&
Reynolds the Communion - and it was very good &
impressive. Devitt had the say so service this eve. It was
good too. Holman &
I ate lunch at R.V.A. & Innises & Johnston were with
us for
supper. Now Conf. is over. What has been accomplished?
Mon.
Jan. 30
Dr.
Davis arranged with Dr Jex Blake to exam Mrs Barnett &
me at 10. We got a nice early start. Scudder Glover Jno
& I but just thro
Limuru our back wheel came off. I was a bit late. Shopped
& on
way up to Mission got stuck in mud at edge of road. Mr.
Farnsworth
had to come pull us out but we worked for 1 ½ hrs before he
came. Jno has cold so we walked up thro mud.
Tues.
Jan. 31
Jno’s
cold wasn’t improved by wading & working in the mud. Had
sup
last night at 10. Got off in fair time. Jno & I walked
to
station along R.R. made us think of old times. Heavy rain on
the Mau
before us so we put on chains all the way home. Mr Randall
brot
loads to juncture of roads & then we loaded all onto the
car. Every thing all OK here. Glad to get back.
Thot
last year Jan. had been hectic. Well it wasn’t very quiet
&
regular this yr either. Conf. was good. No printed programs
but
just a day at a time. Only Pitt Pitts & Kirkpatrick
& N.H.A.
man - as outside speakers. Most of the time spent in prayer.
Wonder
if all was accomplished that should have been God
knows.
Wed.
Feb. 1
Mr.
Scudder got down 3 big loads of wood & put a tube into
the new
tire for a spare & worked at the chain. Milaun helping
him. Mr.
Clarke here for supper & evening. Jno not feeling at all
well. Heavy rain today.
Thur.
Feb. 2
Mr.
Scudder went to Narok hoping to get a lorry but he got away
so late
he missed one & there was no other so he returned - was
all in
when he got here for he hurried. I took prayer mtg. Jno was
in &
out of bed - but mostly in. Were to have prayer mtg tonight
but
every one tired.
Fri.
Feb. 3
Head
began to ache & so took a dose of Salts and lots of
water &
no food all day. Got worse & by 6 P.M. was very sick
&
vomitted a bit. Jno in bed too most all day - couldn’t drink
any
tea even. Abt 2 A.M. wakened & took 5 grs. asperin. Dr
Jex-Blake said 15 but 5 was enuf to settle my head. I drank
lemon
juice in water early & it staid in my stomach all day -
also
breakfast.
Sat.
Feb. 4
Mr.
Scudder left this morn. in good time. My head is better but
feel
rather weak kneed. Jno was up most of the day too - but
every body
ready for music at Clarkes tonight. He was here to supper.
Boys
cleaned. otherwise not much done. Took care of peaches.
Sun.
Feb. 5
A.M.
meetings as usual & went to Narok. Began to rain when we
got
half way & poured. Got stuck near hospital on new grade
but
backed & got out. Skidded a bit on way home. Rained
while at
hospital then walked to school & had service there. Was
so dark
we hustled a bit . Got mail. Chas sent check for $990. We
are
thankful for it.
Mon.
Feb. 6
Milaun
washed. Only a little shower this eve! I really believe that
rain
yesterday was allowed to test us. Answered Chas’s airmail
with an
airmail. Milaun goes in the morning for meat. My tan dress
is
stained from my brown coat. So nothing to do but to dye it.
Ironing
all done too.
Tues.
Feb. 7
Milaun
went for meat. We had a swim - first in almost 3 wks. Lovely
day
all day. Why did it rain so hard on Sun. P.M. & not
before &
not since. Girls fished & Miss Grindley caught a big
one. 8 oz.
& one 4 oz. the rest were small. Have asked the women to
come
tomorrow P.M. for bandages & sewing.
Wed.
Feb. 8
Had
asked the 7 baptised women to come help me sew this P.M. 6
came. Mrs Tagi hasn’t come to a thing since she is here this
time. Made
bandages & tied a cot pad for safari bed. Girls caught
such a
large fish last eve - 8 oz but none so large tonight. Prayer
mtg.
Thur.
Feb. 9
Mr.
Clarke was to come up for supper but got company. Morima
went for
mail but it didn’t come by 4:30 so he returned. Milaun
grated
carrots for salad only he didn’t know & put them into
the soup! Had a swim & a walk. I can get on a bit now in
the water.
Fri.
Feb. 10
Kinyanjui
seems to be teaching the class in this room & it’s
alright. I’m glad he is tho I go over every day. We drove to
Narok today -
got the basket of veg. and the mail. Letter from boys.
They’re so
glad we are coming! tho R. is going to be busy on the trip
all
summer. We are sorry to disappoint them if we go to S.A.
Sat.
Feb. 11
Can’t
help but feel we are right in planning for S.Af. since R. is
busy all
sum. & all year & couldn’t be with us anyway - &
he
decided that not knowing our changed plans. Now we hope Cl.
can soon
come out. Perhaps meet us at Cape town & come up with
us. That
would be great. God knows best. Bad head tonite. Clarke went
to
Nairobi. Milaun got meat.
Sun.
Feb. 12
A
lovely day & had good crowds at both services and the
mail came
too just as we were ab’t ready to come. Sitoya was rather
provoking in being slow ab’t coming and then because I
wouldn’t
let Kinyanjui ride he walked too. Took Wanjeri to the hosp.
He
looks very bad. Rained this eve.
Mon.
Feb. 13
Milaun
wanted to go to Narok to a cattle sale - so didn’t wash.
Kinyanjui
also went & I took his class. Jno working so hard again
at the
spring & trying to get the water down. It is coming now
but will
be way below the house & garden. I’m tempted to feel all
upset
ab’t it - but pray I may have peace. Rained pretty hard.
Wrote
Mrs W. air mail via Miss Harland.
Tues.
Feb. 14
Washed
today. Had a nice swim this eve & no headache. Kinyanjui
did
not come for work at school. He makes a big splash but
doesn’t
keep it up.
Wed.
Feb. 15
Had
sewing this P.M. but the machine wont stitch properly so
didn’t get
much done but 7 children were there. Mashipei went with the
letters. Awful hard day mentally. Am so troubled because
John is so
determined to bring that water down.
Thur.*
Feb. 16
Had
a talk ab’t the water & he seems to think he is doing
just the
right thing. Not much mail - card from Shaffers to say they
may be
here next week. She plays at the Senff-Welty wedding in
Nairobi on
Mon. 12 out to prayermtg.
Fri.
Feb. 17
I
feel somewhat quieter ab’t it all but O it is still so hard
not to
harbor horrid thots. Haven’t had such a struggle in a long
time. Milaun returned today to Narok & brot the rooster
& my watch. The latter has a bill with it of Sh. 19!!!
Prayer day - but tho I
thot of & prayed for others we had no time together. Jno
not
feeling well.
Sat.
Feb. 18
Walked
up to spring with Jno & talked ab’t where it would come
- &
I hope he will consent to putting a ram in wherever it comes
to. The
garden needs it badly. Worked in kitchen all A.M. Had hot
baths &
cut Jno’s hair. Wrote some.
Sun.
Feb. 19
Usual
meetings. Had 53 boys out at the School. Good attendance at
hospital too. Got mail & boxes of butter & peaches
from
Kijabe. Wonder if Shaffers will be here next sun. Jno had 15
to his
class today.
Mon.
Feb. 20
Did
so hope it would rain but it is just hazy & not rainy at
all. Mr. Clarke came from Nairobi & came up to supper.
Milaun will go
to Narok tomorrow with letters & for meat. Wrote some
tonight.
Tues.
Feb. 21
Shaffers
did not come. May get here tomorrow. It’s very warm &
rainy
like but doesn’t rain. Jno is getting the water down toward
where
it crosses the road. Milaun got meat & took letters.
Wed.
Feb. 22
Mr.
Clarke here to supper. Jno & I went for swim. Will have
prayer
mtg tomorrow night. Didn’t rest well last night. Will surely
hear
from Shaffers tomorrow for they’ve not yet come. Sewing this
P.M.
Thur.
Feb. 23
Shaffers
came just as we were beginning our mtg. for we had had
supper early. They brot kittens from Mrs. Farnsworth. We’ve
been chatting like
magpies. Letters from Co & Lo to say how glad they were
we were
coming home!
Fri.
Feb. 24
Went
to school this morning. Lots to talk ab’t. Nice swim this
eve &
the girls & Mr. S. fished. They want to go picnicking
tomorrow. There was partial eclipse of the sun this P.M. but
we forgot about
it.
Sat.
Feb. 25
Went
to Ngosor falls. Nice time every one tired. Some had a swim.
Jno
has the water down to the road & hopes to get it thro
the pipe &
then into a reservoir from where we can pump it to the
garden &
kitchen. It’s so dry these days. The corn is not growing
properly.
Sun.
Feb. 26
Services
as usual. Mrs S. went with us to Narok & played the
violin. Good crowd at both places. Rained some while at mtg.
Had a good
sing here tonight. Read a Keswick address.
Mon.
Feb. 27
We
washed our things today. Mrs S. will wash hers tomorrow.
Didn’t
get to class at all. Thot I’d have extra school work to do
but
Sitoya did not leave as he had planned. only for 2 days.
Tues.
Feb. 28
Paid
all milk bills & Morima & Mashipei - but not Milaun.
So
thankful we had the money for all. Told Mashipei I’d give
him only
Sh 8. next month & I gave Morima Sh 7- & may add
another if
he comes early. Grace is quite sick got Govt Dr.
Have
had more or less regularity this month. Had so hoped Jno had
dropt
the notion of getting the water down - but he is at it hard
as ever &
as determined as ever not to have a ram. so I’ll try
to be
quiet & let him go on but I’m very sure in a very short
time
he’ll regret it - tho he may not tell me so.
Wed.
Mar. 1
Grace
is still quite ill. In sort of stupor much of the time
today. Mrs.
S. is quite worried. Milaun is leaving to see his people.
Jno got
water permit thing to fill out. Prymtg tonight. No word of
Senffs
yet.
Thur.
Mar. 2
Jno
& S. went to Narok this P.M. Mr S. brot Dr. back to see
Grace. She is better but coughs so hard. Mr. S. put fish
trap in & we
had 10 nice large ones for supper. Mr Clarke came up. I took
pray
mtg. Telegram from Senffs - coming Sat.
Fri.
Mar. 3
An
awful hard day. Clarke surveyed the land. Jno with
him most
all day. He & Mr. S-. down there for music tonight.
Girls are
getting things into shape to have their own suppers there
tomorrow
night. I wrote Miss Smith. We had a nice swim.
Sat.
Mar. 4
A
very full program but got everything done I had on the list.
Boys
worked well. Expected Senffs before this but haven’t come.
Girls
ate over there. Every one tired. Had a go of headache but
better
this eve. Mr. S. hauled 2 drums of water.
Sun.
Mar. 5
Head
not good today either but had all mtgs as usual. Rained
pretty hard
at Narok but not much here. Hope we’ll get more tomorrow.
Only
the Nairobi paper - nothing else in mail. We wonder where
Senffs
are. Etta says she’ll help wash tomorrow. Nice mtg this eve.
Mon.
Mar. 6
Etta
didn’t come but went to Narok so I helpt Susana - &
didn’t go
to school at all. This eve every one had gone to bed &
girls
were just going when Senffs came in. Didn’t leave Kjb til 2
P.M. Just couldn’t get packed earlier. Such a load! Got a
sprinkle of
rain.
Tues.
Mar. 7
Visiting,
eating & drinking - is the program these days. Every
body busy. The men helpt Jno get the elevated tank moved to
back of house for
rain water. another obstacle to putting a ram back where it
was! The
water is running thro the pipe just below the school.
Wed.
Mar. 8
Senffs
got away by 10- for Litein. We wanted them to wait another
day. but
they thot they couldn’t. Shaffers want to go on Fri. May go
to
Kjb to get Mrs. Farnsworth. She needs to get away. Started
to move
S’s guest house up into the woods above the garden. Quieter.
P.Mtg this eve.
Thur.
Mar. 9
Jno
& Mr S. went to Narok again to see ab’t permission for
water. Brot mail. Nice letters but feel very sad for they
are all full of
plans for when we come home. We had to send Charlies cheque
back
home for collection so don’t know when we’ll have the money.
P.Mtg this P.M.
Fri.
Mar. 10
Mr.
Oulton at Clarkes so asked both up for supper. Shaffers got
away
ab’t 6. Wouldn’t eat any breakfast. Dailies are full of Bank
failures in U.S.A. & earthquake in Japan - etc etc. Jno
feels
sure we’ll not get our money. The Lord knows & will do
what is
best. Went to Clarke’s for music. Fine.
Sat.
Mar. 11
Worked
all day. Jno got water ab’t to road. & has the tub
there. Fixed the back tank with cement. so we hope ‘twill
soon rain. Elders came up at noon. Wanted to know why we
didn’t call them
when we had the land measured last week. Jno thinks they
will kick
about the water. He went to C’s again for more music.
Sun.*
Mar. 12
Mr.
Clarke & a sick man of his rode in to Narok with us. All
mtgs as
usual. My head has been bad but not so I had to give up.
Miss
Grindley is not well. She staid home this P.M. & as all
were
tired tonight we had no service.
Mon.
Mar. 13
Mr.
Clarke left his key with Jno so we all walked down to see
what is in
the garden & then Jno & I staid for music but there
were no
needles left out. so we didn’t get much played. Very trying
day,
mentally!
Tues.
Mar. 14
Jno
moved S’s little guest house back of the garden among the
trees. Wambogo helpt him a bit. Still no rain. but hot wind.
Milk thickens
quickly & flies are awful. Wrote the boys last eve &
the
girls tonight.
Wed.
Mar. 15
Not
so bad today inside my head. Miss Grindley still not feeling
well. They caught some fish. will try sousing them for
dinner. Jno not
very peppy tonight. Sewing today. I fixed the machine so
used it. Prayermtg. Started F.B. Meyer’s “Future Tenses”
Lora sent.
Thur.
Mar. 16
Not
a word from Shaffers nor the things they were to get. Prayer
mtg
this P.M. Miss Glover not feeling very well. This awful heat
&
wind. If it would only rain. Jno not well at all. Same
trouble as
Miss Grindley. Think it must be from the heat.
Fri.
Mar. 17
Paper
says Banks here wont transact biz with USA banks til things
are more
settled. Don’t know what that means about our money. God
knows. Miss Glover has same trouble as Grindley & Jno -
but these both
are better. Caught 2 large fish in the trap.
Sat.
Mar. 18
Again
so very hot & tho a bit cloudy no sign of rain. Cooked a
chicken
today but all are rather choisey as to eats. Got beef from
Sitoya. Girls caught lots of fish - one very large. Lots of
excitement
getting its “throat cut”. J & I went to Clarkes for some
music this P.M.
Sun.
Mar. 19
Paper
tells of an awful earthquake at Long Beach. Thousands
injurd, some
killed & 62,000 homes gone - etc. How we do wonder how
Harrys
fared. May it help many to realize there is a God to fear as
well as
to love & worship. Last wks paper told of Japan
earthquake. “Look up”.
Mon.
Mar. 20
Wambui
came to help wash. Got started rather late. So hot again tho
cloudy
this eve & a tiny sprinkle. Now since the pump is on the
way Jno
is working at the foundation for the tank. I feel somewhat
more at
peace ab’t it all but O it is hard to bear.
Tues.
Mar. 21
John
cleaned out the rain water tank. It was quite cloudy all day
&
sprinkled a bit. Tho there was hard rain on several sides.
We hope
‘twill soon be here. Boys very late all day. Wrote Mrs Brown
tonight. Girls caught 3 nice large fish last eve. had ‘em
for
breakfast.
Wed.
Mar. 22
Rained
pretty fast for awhile so the tanks both have water in them
now. Jno
trying to get the pipe placed. He fears it will be more than
15 ft.
to the top of the tank but perhaps not. Had a nice chap.
from Meyers
book tonight.
Thur.
Mar. 23
After
praymtg Wambogo & Sitoya came & had lots of words.
They told
Jno it was a bad affair to put down stakes & also the
water
ditch. Then the mail came - a nice lot. Letters from boys -
also
remittance. Also word from Kjb that Downings all &
Teasdales
have sailed on the 8th. We do praise God.
Fri.
Mar. 24
Jno
doing nothing more at the pipes today til he hears what the
elders
say ab’t it. The pump is at Narok. We had a talk this A.M.
&
I feel better since but don’t know ab’t Jno. I talked with
Sitoya too. He agrees it is K.C.A. that is making trouble
here. They wanted Jno this eve but he didn’t come in til
late.
Sat.
Mar. 25
Didn’t
do much baking but busy all A.M. Mashipei went to Narok.
Girls had
us to supper there. Jno & I went to Clarkes for a good
play on
the phono. I crocheted at the rug. Got nice lot done. The
people
haven’t said a word to Jno.
Sun.
Mar. 26
Jno
told them at mtg this morn that we’d help with the
collections and
if they wanted him to take up the water pipes he would. Then
Wambogo
had a long talk to the elders. He doesn’t want Jno to move
the
pipes - neither do some others - but not all agreed. We brot
pump &
parcel of things Mrs S. got for us.
Mon.
Mar. 27
Last
eve the girls called us to see a dead cat some one had hung
in one of
the trees behind the house. Ollenaisho said Sendeo is
cursing the
Reserve & putting these dead cats all over. Jno buried
it this
morn. He said something large was in the kitchen last night.
I
heard nothing. He took up pipes
today. Hope the folks are satisfied now.
Tues.
Mar. 28
Now
the shauri is ab’t the ram. We want a signed permit from
these
folk - & they wont sign; so don’t know what we can do.
Writing
Shaffers about June. Jno still hangs for that month. but I
think
only if we go on south.
Wed.
Mar. 29
There’s
nothing very unusual. Jno worked a bit digging potatoes -
just
little ones. good for chicks. F.B. Meyers book “Future
Tenses”
is very good & helpful. These days are so strange hot,
dry
weather & opposition on all sides.
Thur.
Mar. 30
Mail
brot letter from the Bank to say they had a cable saying
they
couldn’t collect our draft!!! So no S. Af. or
anything
else. My, I’m glad we didn’t plan to go to U.S.A. Dr. wrote
funny ab’t something might be happening out here – but left
us
guessing. Downings all & Teasdales on the way.
Fri.
Mar. 31
Course
we are disappointed ab’t the money - but I believe I feel
worse
because I had hoped it would help to bring Claudon. But what
is that
little money to the Lord. He can send C. heaps more. The
elders met
Jno today & some positively refuse to sign an agreement
so don’t
know what we can do ab’t it.
What
a month this has been! Have never had such a time with
depression
and unable to control my thot’s. I hope it’s overwith. It’s
been awfully hard to be without water here - and it has
seemed so
unnecessary but suppose it will all work out somehow.
Perhaps we’ll
get out & go somewhere else.
Sat.
Apr. 1
Not
very much to do in kitchen. Got no meat; too late. Went to
Clarkes
for music & to the girls’ for supper. very nice. It
tried so
hard to rain. Got black on all sides but only a bit of
sprinkle. We
fear there will be no rains this season. Had one of the hens
for
dinner. Am feeding a young rooster for Apr. 14.
Sun.
Apr. 2
Meetings
as usual. Had tea at Mr. Dennings after school. This is
vacation
month so wont come for a few Sun. Letters from Coz. Dr.
Chas. &
from Gabbotts. Both so glad we are coming! Got the box of
butter.
but no pipes yet.
Mon.
Apr. 3
Opened
butter this morn & found letter from Mrs Probst - she
sent butter
- & in it she says Dr. Davis had air mail to say
Downings with
Herbert & family & Kenneth & Teasdales & Dr.
Klineshmidts and a new lady worker Miss Dagon are on the
way. We are
so pleased. The Lord is able even in the depression.
Tues.
Apr. 4
This
morn ab’t 10:20 Farnsworth, Dr. D. and Mr & Mrs.
Kemptner came
in. Dr. was asked to come for some sick Indian women at
Narok. My
head was bad so I took 10 grs. of aspirin & lay down
& toward
eve it cleared up. Kemptners are going to move into
Industrial house
& keep house. McK’s are going to R.V.A. til some one
else is
found for there.
Wed.
Apr. 5
Dr.
& we had a talk while Mr F & K worked at our car.
Fixed
several things that were needed. Dr asked if we’d like Ken D
out
here with us. He doesn’t know at all if he will care to come
but
asked. We said yes, if Cl. goes up to Pygmies we’d like
someone. They left ab’t 11. So glad for even so short a
visit.
Thur.*
Apr. 6
Mail
brot letters from Buxton to ask ab’t the girls going to Dr.
Irvines
in June - for a bit of med. work. I think it would be fine
but hate
to have them leave. but it may be the Lord’s provision for
them
because we hope to leave for S’s. No rain - so hot - and the
FLIES!!
Fri.
Apr. 7
Wrote
welcome letters to Downings. So nice to be able to do that.
All
writing letters tonight. Baked bread. Miss Grindley wants to
bake a
fruit cake tomorrow. Jno has two pretty good sized streams
running
now & looks like he’d get more so we may be able to have
the
ram quite high.
Sat.
Apr. 8
The
cake turned out very nice. The parcel came that had the
almond flour
for the icing. We were at Clarkes again for music & to
the girls
for supper. I dyed the sweater & dressing gown. Murima
did the
work. Mashipei went to Narok but brot only little meat.
Sun.
Apr. 9
Drove
to Dawsons to see ab’t having meeting at the jail but he
doesn’t
want us to. so we can’t. No mtg at school as the children
have
gone home. Mail came. Also 2 baskets of figs etc. from
Kijabe. After we got back it blew hard & rained some. So
glad!
Mon.
Apr. 10
Some
more rain this eve but not much. lots of threat. Got washing
all
done & dry. So nice to have rain water for it. peeled
figs &
canned 2 ½ qts. for Sambur if they want them. Girls are
translating
Ezra for Masai now.
Tues.
Apr. 11
Thot
I’d get to class but decided to make Yorkshire pudding with
the
roast so as it had to be beaten long & then baked
carefully I
didn’t get to class. Have decided to make some fondant
Easter eggs
for the girls - on the quiet. Just a sprinkle.
Wed.
Apr. 12
Not
a bit of rain - just a black cloud. Mornings are snappy cold
like
Aug. Mashipei went to Narok with letters & got cash. Had
sewing
- went swimming. Made fondant this A.M. but it sugared so
did it
over. Hope ‘twill be nice. Glover is fixing up a large egg
shaped
thing for Grindley. Jno is rather knocked out this eve.
Thur.
Apr. 13
Fixed
up a basket of things for Miss G’s birthday tomorrow. Nice
mail. Letter from Raymond. Had just rec’d the air mail &
he was
disappointed. John is still digging & the water is
increasing. Mr. Shaffer says a ram will cost [?]300/-
Perhaps we can’t get it
right away - but we hope to.
Fri.
Apr. 14 Good Fri. Miss Grindley.
Jno
dismissed class yesterday til after Easter. Miss G’s basket
looked
very pretty. I gave her book of F.B. Meyer. Miss Gl. gave
her bottle
of scent. Took walk - rim o’ the world. Thot we’d missed the
canyon but finally got there. Roast chicken - jello. I made
thin
Easter eggs today - of fondant.
Sat.
Apr. 15
Had
a hard time keeping the girls from finding the eggs - when I
put
choco. on they got soft & flattened some. but perhaps
they’ll
taste better than they look. To Clarkes & then supper
with
girls. Wrote to Mrs Gabbott. No rain & so windy!
Downings
party of 10 to land today.
Sun.
Apr. 16 Easter.
Wonder
if Downings are getting to Nairobi today. Didn’t get mail
&
basket of figs. Waited til 5 then came on. Girls enjoyed
their
eggs. Miss Gr. gave us each 3 kerchiefs. We will likely
drive over
tomorrow for there was to be a piece of pork too.
Mon.
Apr. 17
We
drove to Narok. Got mail too. Nice figs & a huge leg of
pig -
fried some for dinner. The streams where Jno is digging are
larger
than Sat. so he is sure they will be enuf for a ram. Went up
river
to the picnic place - & fished but caught only 3. back
for
supper. No sign of rain.
Tues.
Apr. 18
Every
one at work again. My head is ache-y. Are all enjoying the
pork. Susana ironed some of my things & I did the rest.
Murima is ab’t
all in with a bad chest cold. Jack went to Narok with
letters this
P.M. so aren’t sending tomorrow. Windy.
Wed.
Apr. 19
Murima
seems a bit brighter but complains much of his head. Such
windy
days- and even blows some thro the night. Girls are working
at Ezra. Such a lot of sore eyes & colds. Sewing class.
Girls fished.
Thur.
Apr. 20 [F.M.S. birthday]
52
& feel it tonight. A huge card board box was at my place
-
contain ½ doz stainless steel bread & butter knives -
huge bath
towel & soap - etc little nonsense things. then we had
hi tea
there and took pictures of the cake & us. Mr Clarke
&
another came. but will come tomorrow night for sup. I’ve
taken the
epidemic I guess for I’m all in - ache - fever – cough.
Fri.
Apr. 21
Haven’t
done much all day. Lying down mostly but feel better this
eve. Instead of men coming here they took Jno there for
supper. They were
here for tea & enjoyed the cake. Wrote boys for Dr D to
take. Finished girls’ letter. glad it’s bedtime. Still windy
& no
rain.
Sat.
Apr. 22
Still
feeling punk. Jack is doing odd jobs - plenty to do. Lay
down much
of the time today. Had music at Clarkes this P.M. Girls
looked
after supper but had it over here. They are beginning to
pack. Mr.
S. wrote they should be ready for short notice move.
Sun.
Apr. 23
I
came home & lay down during A.M. service after S.S. Then
went to
Narok as usual. Brot mail & boxes. Jno not feeling up to
much
so both of us are going to bed - 7:30. Mrs. McK asks if they
&
Hemptners can come out a wk in May. Jno says he will reply.
Don’t
feel like co. these days.
Mon.*
Apr. 24
Spent
all A.M. in bed - my head was so bad. Still aches but not so
hard. Took 10 gr. aspirin & my ears are like [?] with
quinine. Drest
this P.M. Girls are cutting up oranges for marmalade. They
got a
doz glass jars so are filling them with all sorts of things.
Sprinkled a bit last night only threat this eve.
Tues.
Apr. 25
Silole
& Susana are sick so Etta & Sermetei came to wash.
They
hustled it thro tho it isn’t done very nicely. Went to
school tho
don’t feel very peppy. Started letter to Mrs. Shaffer but
aren’t
sending til Sat. All expect to hear things in Thurs. mail.
The
girls about July & Chogoria & we ab’t Kenneth.
Wed.
Apr. 26
Dr.
hoped to get away today tho his boat doesn’t leave til Sat.
Had
last sewing class for this term. Finished up several things.
Susana
ironed some & Mashipei finished. We do so wonder ab’t
the mail
tomorrow. Hope it comes promptly - so Morima can return.
Thur.
Apr. 27
O
me O my. Africa sure! Nothing for any body. Not a scratch
for us -
a 5 cent one for Glover and one for Grindley that’s been
following
her. And that was all. We just cant understand. Jno gave the
girls
their exam questions this noon. Miss Glover makes such a
fuss ab’t
it. Several more down with colds. Mine is clearing.
Fri.
Apr. 28
Girls
did their exams. Guess they didn’t find it so hard when they
got
at it. Jno hasn’t corrected them yet. Had a good sing at
school. Miss Grindley played. They sang 2 English ones. Now
there’s a
rest for a mo.
Sat.
Apr. 29
Baked
a little but didn’t do much. Girls are taking things easy.
Had
breakfast late. Miss Glover is quite done out! Sent letters
&
for meat. but he brot very little for Sh 3/- We had music
again this
P.M.
Sun.
Apr. 30
Nice
mail today. Kenneth has been assigned to Githumu! We are
rather
disappointed for we had hoped he’d come here. Letter from
Claudon. He’s by himself at Ridgefield Park. Do hope he can
soon come out.
Now
we’ve ordered the ram by Mr. S. and O how we need it. No
rains at
all. Are bringing water with the wheelbarrow & debes.
Will
likely have it in by another month. Kuyoni is here - hope he
can get
something settled ab’t Wambui.
Mon.
May 1
Washed
down at the pond. Kuyoni helpt. Very cloudy most all day.
This
P.M. we drove to Narok & got 2 big parcels of wool. and
cash for
Kuyoni - and on way back filled the ant bear holes in the
road &
brot some “engaging” [unclear] roots for fire.
Tues.
May 2
Mashipei
ironed our things & Susana washed more of their things
curtains
etc. for they may have marching orders any day. Getting Mrs.
Andersens wool ready. 2 parcels & several local letters
off.
Wed.
May 3
Miss
Glover received a telegram today to say that the Home Com.
approved
of their marriage in July. Tomorrow we expect word as to
when they
should leave here & where go. Kuyoni took parcels &
letters. Dawson gave us permission to put in ram. Very dark
all day but no
rain.
Thur.
May 4
Rained
a bit. We got a nice mail. but nothing special for the
girls. We
keep expecting the fruit basket to upset but it doesn’t.
Jack went
but Mariapie brot the mail on bicycle & Jack will be
back
tomorrow. Heavy rain at Narok - M. said. Not many at prayer
mtg. Translating Zeph. in class. John does it & Grindley
writes it
down. I attend.
Fri.
May 5
Almost
finished kahki coat. Will get it done tomorrow. It’s going
to be
a very useful article. Jack came back at 10! Finished
translating
Zeph. and started Proverbs in class. I attend these days.
Sprinkled
a bit. Jack said it rained hard at Narok.
Sat.
May 6
Kuyoni
took letters & brot meat. Mashipei is working so well
these
days. I’m sure K. is having a good influence. He told me
this PM
that he had written Wambui to come on. I’m very troubled
&
shall see him in morning & get him to change it for it
would
never do to have her come here.
Sun.
May 7
Went
to Narok as usual & to the School. only a few children
there. Got 3 parcels - Cora, Lora & Miss Moody - all
sent dresses! Got
vegs. & figs too from Kjb. Jno not feeling well so we 3
sang &
read by ourselves. Raining a bit this eve.
Mon.
May 8
Had
a real storm this eve. Mashipei & Susana washed. M’s
father
is here & wants M. to go with him to Ngong - so he is
going. Now
it’s Jack & me for it. Kuyoni says he will help when he
can. Jno in bed most all day. Has a boil where he had one
when we were in
Brooklyn. Made hot cover.
Tues.
May 9
Jno
had a miserable night but the boil broke this morning so he
has been
up some today. Just a sprinkle tonight. Mashipei left this
morning. Kuyoni’s shauri is on today. Mbaei wants more than
he’s got
right now. Pressed all my new dresses - 6 of em - &
tried them
on.
Wed.
May 10
Kuyoni
went with letters - & brot vinegar and flour. He wanted
to
borrow shgs. but we cant draw more now. Jno was up part of
the day. Had class. but went back again this P.M. Seems to
trouble more than
usual. Dresses all fit pretty well but Lora’s jumper is too
small. Miss Moodys is lovely.
Thur.
May 11
Wambogo
went for mail but it doesn’t come til tomorrow. Jno in bed
all
day. Kuyoni led prayer mtg. Walked up to see Nyakeiru. Girls
are
cutting more oranges for marmalade. I cut & almost
finished an
old brown voile of Als. ‘Twill be good for school.
Fri.
May 12
Wambogo
brot mail & a telegram from Mr. Scudder. “Chogoria off -
will
request Kijabe” so they may go to Kijabe when we go to
Lasit. One
from Mr S. to say all is fine he will let us know when
school opens. K. says Mbaei says if he pays Sh 60- now he
can be married & pay
the 2 cows later. He has paid 4 cows. Wambui wants much to
come. I
had an awful spell of indigestion last night.
Sat.
May 13
Baked
all A.M. Instead of going to Clarkes for music we drove up
the ridge
for wood. Got a big load. Then went to Clarkes for avocadoes
&
oranges. The girls’ marmalade is so nice. I want to make
some. Of course all the talk now is “Kijabe” & when.
Sun.
May 14
All
mtgs as usual. Kuyoni went with us to Narok - only a bit of
mail. Mrs. Kemptner had appendix operation on Fri. Came thro
well. Dr
should be getting to Genoa by now.
Mon.
May 15
Went
out on the old road for sand. Got 4 bags. Ate lunch by hi
bridge
but forgot matches so had only cold water to drink. Jno
drove and we
got on very well. Kuyoni helpt Susana wash. We got back by
12 &
had tea.
Tues.*
May 16
Mr.
Clarke came in yesterday but is sick. Jno went to see him.
Susana
did her ironing. Kuyoni will come tomorrow and do mine.
Kinyanjui
killed so I got some meat. Jno working at making a good path
to the
big spring for that is where the ram will be put.
Wed.
May 17
Mr.
Clarke up for supper. Jack does work well these days. Kuyoni
ironed. They had an “olpul” [ritual meat-feast for Maasai
wariors]. so he was a bit late but finished before dinner,
made lemon
pie. Mr Clarke enjoyed it all. He brot a cold roast mutton
leg up. I finished pasting snaps into albums.
Thur.
May 18
Expected
big mail but only one home letter from Mr Campbell of the
office. Letter from Buxton & cheque for $100- very nice
of him. McK.
writes its OK for the girls to come to Kjb. Guess they’ll go
when
we go with Shaffer. 13 out to prayermtg this P.M. We had our
pmtg
too this eve. Miss Glover heard they are to be married in
Nairobi.
Fri.
May 19
Headache
all day kept getting worse & worse. Did some letters
this P.M.
but couldn’t do much after supper. too sick.
Sat.
May 20
Kuyoni
went with letters. brot flour etc. and a telegram from
Buxton saying
if we stay on here the girls should stay with us. Don’t know
why
he thinks we are staying on. Mr C. here to supper & we
all there
for music. His clock is slow so it was late.
Sun.
May 21
Good
mtgs all day. Just as we got started for Narok Kapirorei
came asking
to go as he was sick. I took him but it was really too many.
Kuyoni
does so well. Speaks with more pep than Sitoya. 63 at the
school
gathering. Pretty good rain this eve. Letter from Shaffers
but
nothing special.
Mon.
May 22
Kuyoni
& Susana washed. There was enuf water in tank for it.
Milaun
watched the kitchen yesterday for the fellow who has been
taking
things but no one came. I cleaned & straightened a bit
at the
library. found some more snaps to paste . Worked at rug a
bit.
Tues.
May 23
Kuyoni
left this morning for his fathers kraal. & then Kijabe.
Getting
letters ready for tomorrow. Susana & I ironed. I baked
biscuits
too. Got ½ sheep from Kinyanjui. Also Mr C’s men killed
& I
got some meat from them. Hope by 2 wks from today Shaffer
will be
coming out. Rained tonight.
Wed.
May 24
Wambogo
went with letters & brot cash for Miss Glover. Milaun is
working
on road. Lovely rain this P.M. and quite nice one last eve.
No more
water to carry for there’s enuf in the tanks to last til the
rain
comes! Cleaned library & cut out quilt blocks. Have
enough for
one side of quilt.
Thur.
May 25
No
one came to go for letters so asked Milaun to go. he is
working on
the road for us. He brot butter & sugar too. Mrs.
Downing wants
us to spend a month with them! Mr Scudder writes he still
hopes they
can be married out here! No word from Shaffer.
Fri.
May 26
Pasted
the left over pictures. Jno has foundation all done for the
tank. Jack says some one broke into Wambogo’s house
yesterday & stole
blanket & coat & food while they were at prayer mtg.
I’ll
wager it’s the same fellow that has been taking meat &
fruit
from our cupboard. Cut oranges for marmalade.
Sat.
May 27
Made
ab’t 5 qts of marmalade. Mr. Clarke returned from Nairobi
&
came up for supper- tho we’d had ours. Then we went down for
a bit
of music. Jack cleaned the floors. I baked some. Heavy storm
west
of here.
Sun.
May 28
Meetings
as usual. Jno announced baptisms would be next Sun. if
Mr
Shaffer comes. We got nice home mail but none from Shaffer
so can’t
tell the candidates what we’ll do. Rained pretty hard this
eve.
Mon.
May 29
Kuyoni
is back & will help in kitchen tomorrow. Silole helpt
wash. Jno
made steps into the pond so it is easier getting into the
water &
out too. but really for the baptising on Sun. Mr Clarke sent
up
meat. Asked him up tomorrow eve.
Tues.
May 30
Just
as we were coming up from a walk a car drove in. Andersens
and Mr
Downing & Mr Teasdale. So surprised. Hustled beds &
got all
settled in their rooms before dark. Mr. C. turned back when
they
drove in. So very thankful for Kuyoni’s help. He ironed too.
Wed.
May 31
They
got away ab’t 9. Mr A. is not at all well. a native drives
the
car. Kuyoni baked very nice bread. I’m in language class
these
days. Are going over a questionnaire from a language man in
Eng. Mr
Hunter. Fixed up brown silk dress for in car. Folks took our
letters.
Quite
a tame month. but did lots in the kitchen. Am very glad to
have
Kuyoni for a bit. Everything of the water works is ready for
Mr.
Shaffer & the ram. How we are looking for’d to June.
Thur.
June 1
Thot
we sure would hear from Shaffers but not a word. Kuyoni went
for
mail. Mr. Oulton came up for tea & supper. Mr Clarke has
gone
to Kakamega. It rained a bit just at meeting time so there
was none.
Fri.
June 2
Rained
hard this eve - but Mr. Oulton came up. Read us news notes
that he
had jotted down while listening on the radio. How we wonder
where Mr
S is. Jno & Milaun burned brush in valley by ram place.
Jno has
bad toothache tonite. Mr O. doesn’t stay long after supper
for
news hour is at 7 oclock.
Sat.
June 3
Jack
went with letters. Kuyoni works like always. It’s so nice to
have
some one who can go ahead. Mr. O. here again but left early
for
news. Jno is celebrating by having a nasty tooth - where his
bridge
is fastened. We did look hard for Mr. S. but no sign yet.
Sun
June 4
S.S.
and then baptism at the pond. 14 were baptised. Jno had told
them
yesterday to come prepared. We went to Narok as usual - but
not a
word form Shaffers. So we don’t know when he is coming. Mr.
O.
here & leaves tomorrow on safari. We gave 12 typed Bible
verses
to the School boys - 4 are new - for them to learn til we
return.
Mon.
June 5
Jno’s
tooth is very troublesome & we do wonder where Mr. S.
is. Girls
are packing some. I’m getting things together too. Kuyoni
&
Susana washed. I’ve been fighting a bad head all day. Better
this
eve.
Tues.
June 6
Just
at tea time Mr S. came but no ram. They had none - all sold
out but
would have more in by a month or 6 wks. So we are going to
Kjb
tomorrow. The girls are ab’t packed up. I’ll drive our car
&
whatever we can take. Mr S. has his car ab’t loaded now
&
still more to put on.
Wed.
June 7
Got
away by 9:20. We went ahead. Very dry & dusty. I took 2
aspirins & haven’t much of a head tonight. We are at
Downings
tho Mrs D has not yet returned from Githumu. The girls are
at Miss
Stevensons. Want to get off early for Nairobi. Called on Mrs
Myers
too, Mrs Herbert seems rather frail but practical.
Thur.
June 8
Got
away a bit after 5. Mr. S. is taking some fish in 2 debes.
Got to
Slaters for break. & shopt all A.M. I staid at S’s &
men
shopt all P.M. Had tea at 5 & left for Machakos by 6:10.
Got
there 8:15. Johnstons waited for us. They both seem in need
of a
rest. They go to the coast for July. Saw Buxton & he
says
wedding is July 10.
Fri.
June 9 LASIT [on base of Kilimanjaro]
Made
mistake & put this on next page! Got away from J’s in
good
time 5:30 but actually left the duka at 6:10. Came on fast
&
with no mishap. Got here ab’t 5. Mrs. S & Mrs. Lany were
so
surprised. Talked fast had good supper & baths & now
bed. The Mt. was clear as crystal all day. A grand sight all
the way
down.
Sat.
June 10
Unpacked
& got our room arranged to suit us. Our window opens
right onto
the mt. & it has been so clear today again. Mr. S. is
trying to
get the posho mill set up. We all slept this P.M. Didn’t
sleep
much last night. Too cold & excited. I know we are going
to
have a nice time here.
Sun.
June 11
Jno’s
tooth has troubled a lot today. I staid in bed as my head
was bad.
but got up for services. So cold & windy out there that
Jno
didn’t go. This P.M. Mr S. drove over to see Mr W. Mrs Lany
&
I went too. Mr. S examined Mondet & some one else for
baptism.
Mon.
June 12
Got
off in pretty good time 9:30. Got to Lanys by 1:30. The road
was
very rough. Mr. Lany seemed glad to see us. My head
troubled
all day. After lunch we went to the dentist. She pulled the
old
stump that has been making all the trouble for Jno &
will do my
filling & put on J’s bridge when he gets it.
Tues.
June 13
Lanys
both went to Moshi. & we to Himo - then home. Forgot our
chop
box. First part of the road - fine - to Rombo - but from
there here
‘twas awful & we got here just at dark. Tired &
hungry. I
got silky material for petticoat. & some shanting -
perhaps a
dress.
Wed.
June 14
Mail
came. letter from Chas. He says he thinks we can get the
money all
right when he gets the draft back - so we may plan something
for next
year. A big shauri out under the trees today. Mr Whitehouse
was at
it but didn’t come in here. Jno wrote Spencer Palmer for his
bridge.
Thur.
June 15
The
shauri is still going on. I wrote Chas & the girls.
Helpt with
the ironing a bit. We are surely having a lazy time of it.
Our
appetites are awful. We brot a lot of tangerines &
lemons. I
made lemon squash. and they have fallen for it.
Fri.
June 16
Wrote
Claudon today. The shauri is not yet over. There seems a
division
for now there are two groups under two trees. The mountain
clouds up
part of the time each day. but I think we have some good
pictures of
it. Mr S. started his grinder tonight.
Sat.
June 17
Went
with Mr S. about 3 miles from here & got a load of grass
- just
over the line in Chaga country. I came home with an awful
head - ate
no dinner but it’s better tonight. Wrote Mrs Myers a
birthday
letter. How fast these days fly!
Sun.
June 18
Here
it is Sun. again. haven’t accomplished very much during this
wk.
because of going to Marangu. Mr. S. baptised 2 young men
today. First baptisms here. Mondet was one of them. We then
had communion. School boys leave on vacation tomorrow.
Mon.
June 19
Boys
did a huge washing so I helpt a bit in the kitchen. Men took
posho
out on the road 20 mi. from here & then fished a bit.
Didn’t
get in til 11:30 P.M. They stopt at Whitehouse’s for supper.
Elephants were nearby this morn & Mr W. was after them.
Thinks
he got one but it hasn’t been found.
Tues.
June 20
Every
body tired & sleepy today. I helpt with ironing.
Finished
Moodys letter & wrote Gaylord. Mr. S. gone to the woods
for logs
for boards. men making brick here. The fish were very nice.
Thot we
should get mail today but none came.
Wed.
June 21
Jno
& Mr. S. went up for cedar logs - for 2 boys’ houses. I
should
have gone for ‘twas a lovely day. have not seen the mt so
clear
ever before. Jno took some pictures from the wood. wrote
Guithers.
Thur.
June 22
Wrote
Dr. Newberry-Gribble. Sent for mail. Letter from Claudon
& Lo &
Co - and Syabei folks. but I’m very sad since reading their
letters. There’s been dancing & drinking with
circumcising of
9 boys & girls. No wonder the elders didn’t want school.
Fri.
June 23
Some
of us had restless night. I couldn’t get Syabei out of my
mind. A
big triumph like baptising 15 would have a big knock from
the enemy
of souls. Mrs S played violin tonight & Jno on organ.
Sat.
June 24
Jno
made a grass screen & tried getting close to animals for
a
picture but wasn’t very successful. Baked cookies & made
fondant for candy to send to RVA children. Music tonight on
phono. Nice bath to bed early.
Sun.
June 25
Not
very many out for meeting. School boys are all gone for
their
vacation & teachers too - so it was mostly women &
children. Karioki spoke - as earnestly as tho the place were
full of Masai. Whitehouse & Oganby came for hi tea &
staid til after 8 P.M. Nice visit.
Mon.
June 26
Didn’t
wash today as helpers were not here. Made the fondant into
candy for
children. I wrote the girls and Mrs Cook. Men went for grass
&
then had another look for path up the mt. but think the
other side is
better. Didn’t sleep well last night the bites troubled me
so. Don’t know if its hives or tick bites.
Tues.
June 27
Bites
still trouble. I sponge off with soda water - that helps.
Men found
a pretty good place up - just on this side Mawenzi - along
the fire
brake. They got very black from walking thro where grass had
burned. Mr. Oganby called here. Washed. Sent 11 letters for
posting. Getting some written.
Wed.
June 28
This
A.M. men went toward Loitokitok for wood & then followed
an
elephant path way up & got to a nice stream where Mr S.
wants to
build a small hut. They can drive to there with the car.
They want
to work up from there. Came home very late for dinner. I
made
little meat pies. Knitted but didn’t write a letter. didn’t
feel
like it. Mrs. S. is not feeling well.
Thur.
June 29
Milaun
went for mail. Glover wrote they will be married at Limuru
July 10.
& after honey moon will go to Wamba just camping for 6
mo. Would
like us to attend Kijabe reception but Jno thinks we should
go to So.
Af. if possible. There are many reasons why I’d rather wait
til
next year. but none seem important to him.
Fri.
June 30
Mrs.
S & I visited Kulales yesterday. Jno thinks he got some
good
zebra pictures today. Got very close to them. Had roast
potatoes
down at the pond. Wrote the sisters. Nine years ago tonight
Mother
went to glory. Started Mrs. S. on knitting a sock.
Don’t
know how things will go in the days to come. We’re sort o’
upset
as to plans. But after figuring up accounts we find we have
very
little in the bank & still less in our pocket book. and
S’s are
ab’t the same so they can’t pay us what they owe us.
Sat.
July 1
Men
went out on the road taking posho to some workmen & then
they
went fishing - brot a nice lot all cleaned and one alive to
put into
the pond. Wrote the daughters. & did some knitting &
sewing. Washed hair & bathed. Will finish reading
“Cardinal Pole”
by Ainsworth - borrowed from Mr Whitehouse.
Sun.
July 2
Mtgs
as usual. Then ab’t 2:30 left for Marangu. Stopt ab’t 3 mi.
out
& ate supper but Mrs. Lany would make tea for us. Got
there
6:30. took over 4 hrs. and its only 38 mi. John & I are
in the
guest house we have always had. How well I remember a year
ago. [Just returned to Siyabei from Kijabe. Shaffers going
to Loitokitok.]
Mon
July 3
Went
to the dentist this P.M. She finished up Mrs Shaffer &
John
pretty quickly & put medicine in mine but I must return
for the
filling. The nerve had to be killed, so we can’t get home
til
Thur. Mrs. Lany seems glad for she is alone. Mr. L. is
working out
on the road. Went to sister Elizabeths. Mrs. S. wanted exam.
Tues.
July 4
Mr.
S & I went with Mrs. Lany & her truck to Moshi. We
got most
all shopping done before lunch at 1. but it took some time
to get
started for home. Going in there was a big load of natives
&
coming back quite a load of stuff. I got kapok - for Sh 3/-
a bag. Phono music.
Wed.
July 5
Knitted
some & went to the garden. Took Mrs S & Grace to
Reusches on
our way to dentist. Now all is done. My it feels good. She
asked
Sh 5/- for John & Sh 10/- for me & I added Sh 5/-.
We are
grateful. Went to Reusches for tea. Donuts! Jno ate… Then
saw
the drill. Got back for supper. Mrs. L. played for us.
Thur.
July 6
Got
away by 9. went to where Mr. L. is working & ate our
lunch there. Got here by 5. Men drove up to Loitokitok at
once with the pig for
Mr. W. We got 2 small ones. Had such a load of stuff. So
thankful
for the kapok. Mail brot books from Lo & Am & Digest
&
“Undaunted Hope” from Raymond but no home letters.
Fri.
July 7
So
glad to be home again. and especially glad for such a
comfortable
mouth. John too looks & feels better. Took some time to
get
every thing put away into its place. We hustled mail off
this
morning to Loitokitok. I wrote Scudders. The little pigs are
glad
to be here too. How they eat!
Sat.
July 8
John
went on a hike & tried fishing at a certain river &
caught 8
nice ones. We boiled them for supper. Ngoso baked bread
almost all
alone & it got very nice. If S’s will have language
class so
we are doing something, we have ab’t decided to stay another
month.
Sun.
July 9
It
was rainy & heavy fog all A.M. Had small meeting in the
house. Cleared some this P.M. & Jno & I had a nice
walk to the top
of a hill. Saw what he thot might have been a rhino but I
thot lookt
more like a pig. Mrs. S. wants class tomorrow. Mr S. says
wait one
week more & we’ve already been waiting 4 wks!
Mon.
July 10
Scudders
wedding day! Hope it is pleasanter in Nairobi than here.
Very heavy
fog & sprinkle but cleared enuf so the men went for
grass. We
had an hour of language class this eve. and hope after this
week to
have it in day time & longer time. Peak of Mawenzi
cleared ths
eve.
Tues.
July 11
John
went fishing. Caught 7 large ones. Boys washed. Very heavy
fog
this morning but wash got almost dry. Writing Davises. Baked
fish
for supper. Good go at language this eve. Jno is pretty
lame.
Wed.
July 12
Grand
sunny day. Today they both went for grass & left the car
with
the men & they went to see ab’t a way up to the saddle.
Got in
dense forest & most lost themselves. Didn’t get thro the
forest. Both very tired. back late but had class after
baths. Wrote
Miss Zimmerman.
Thur.
July 13
Jno
pretty lame this morn. but better this eve. I had headache
all day. Wrote Bertha Goodman & knitted. Mts were clear
til ab’t 10
oclock when fog blew in. Grace almost sick with cold. Got
things
ready for mens lunch tomorrow. They want to leave early.
Fri.
July 14
Men
got off in good time & as they haven’t come back they
must be
someplace on the mt. for they said if they returned to the
car they
would come back. Karioki brot mail. Grindley writes no women
allowed at Wamba. Scudders were married Fri. the 7th.
so
she could be bridesmaid before going to Mareno.
Sat.
July 15
Men
came back ab’t 11:30 A.M. the car gave them a lot of trouble
or
they’d have been here last eve. Got very near to some
elephants. Von Stadens are already in Kenya. Miss Des Forges
comes later. I
wrote to Scudders to come on down here & get us &
we’d all
go to Syabei together. Whitehouse & Oganby here to tea.
I baked
orange cake for R’s bithday.
Sun.
July 16
Cold
& cloudy most all day. Mrs S not feeling so well so I
played at
mtg. Talked long this A.M. ab’t plans. If Miss Des Forges
comes
early in Aug. & stays with Mrs S. we can leave then any
time. Our regular remittance hasn’t come yet so can’t do
much of
anything til we get money.
Mon.
July 17
Jno
working at list of questionably spelled words. When all are
listed
Mr Whitehouse will go over them & put down as he thinks.
Didn’t
wash today. A few cattle around & a good many Chaga.
Kajiado
Indian is here. He is auctioneer and also has a duka in a
tent. Wrote Mrs Guilding. Hammonds, Whitehouse etc all 8
came to tea at
11.
Tues.
July 18
Washing
took long but there wasn’t very much. S’s hope to get a fat
ox
to butcher. Lots of people around & a good many cattle
but are
selling pretty high. Jno & I took a walk around there.
Jno
finished the list of words. Today Raymond is
25!
Wed.
July 19
Sale
closed today. Jno, Milaun & I went fishing. Caught 4
nice ones. Mr. S. had hoped to buy some more cattle but
hasn’t his fence done
yet & all are selling too high. so killed the fattest of
the 4
he bot before & sold 2 & one ran away & hasn’t
been
found. There is quite a nice lot of fat from this one &
course,
nice meat.
Thur.
July 20
Men
left ab’t 9:30 for the Gorge leading into the Mawenzi
crater. 3
porters carried their blankets etc. Milaun carried gun &
lantern. It’s been quite clear today so hope they have nice
weather. Frying out fat & salted a lot of meat. Shall
try
canning some. Finally sold the runaway ox but it wouldn’t be
led. Was very wild & angry.
Fri.
July 21
It’s
been quite cloudy all day today. Do wonder what the men have
accomplished. We canned meat. boiled soup. baked bread &
date
cookies. Ngoso about sick for the ox knocked him down
yesterday. Gave Mago a big piece of meat. Usere Indians wife
called this eve. Rather rainy tonight. Hope men are enjoying
their stay out. Mr S.
had a bad toe & finger.
Sat.
July 22
Men
got in just after we finished our dinner. Mr. S. came first.
They
had a fine time but so cold at night. Went into the smaller
gorge &
climbed up & looked into the larger one. Quite clear
this morn.
& they said ‘twas clear yesterday where they were.
Music.
Sun.
July 23
Rainy
& cold all day tho we worked in 3 short walks - just to
get warm. Mail this P.M. Remittance & Chas send $190/-
of our draft -
keeping 800. We are getting excited about going home. Mr
Whitehouse
wrote he is going to Simba tomorrow so we look for more mail
& do
hope Scudders will come to get us.
Mon.
July 24
Dreary
cold day again. Boys washed clothes but not all day. An
Indian went
to Simba & will be back tomorrow. Mail goes Wed. Made
each of
the boys an Americano shirt. & sewed some for Mrs. S.
Don’t
know yet at all what we’ll do ab’t going home.
Tues.
July 25
Mr.
Whitehouse came after tea. We hustled supper. He brot mail.
Letter
from von Stadens to say they will come here ab’t Sat. &
then
next week go to meet Miss Des Forges at Simba. Nothing form
Scudders
so don’t suppose they are coming. Letter from Sitoya 1 cat
missing.
Wed.
July 26
Mr.
W. & John went over the list of questionably spelled
words &
decided on what they thot they should be. Several, I know,
Sitoya
will object to. John is going over the vocabulary now &
respelling them.
Thur.
July 27
Made
drop cookies. Did some mending. Wrote Chas. Men went fishing
this
P.M. so, we had fish for supper & more for tomorrow. Are
having
2 hrs. of language evenings. Sitoya did not get my last
letter. Wonder if that mail didn’t get to Simba.
Fri.
July 28
John
worked all day at words & vocabulary and may go to
Loitokitok
with it tomorrow as Mr. Whitehouse did not come to any
shauri today. Mrs S. has room ready for von Stadens tho they
haven’t come yet. Long language class tonight & will
finish Hebrews tomorrow. Boy
forgot to bring in dried meat so most was eaten by animals.
Sat.
July 29
John
went to Loitokitok right after breakfast & Mr W. brot
him back &
we had tea & then work on words. Have changed several
spellings. A little after 5- Mr. Downing & von Stadens
came. It is so nice
to see them. Mrs von Staden is a tiny body. Mr. D. says a
nurse
from Calif. is coming & may work here - don’t know what
will be
done with Miss Des Forges who comes next week.
Sun.
July 30
Just
such a few people out today but we among us had a good time.
Mr. von
Staden spoke at 4 - so very helpfully. She sang &
played. Quite
cloudy all day. hardly got a peep at the mt. Mr. W. went to
Simba so
we expect mail tomorrow.
Mon.
July 31
Went
to a nearby kraal this P.M. Milaun at washing but not
finished. Mr
Downing spoke this eve - very good. Mr. von Staden is not
very
strong as yet. Must still eat bran with his food. Jno
working at
vocabulary.
Can’t
think where this mo. has gone. and we not home yet. Have
done quite
a lot of letters & some knitting - but seems I should
have more
to show for this month.
Tues.
Aug. 1
Baked
Grace’s birthday cake. She helpt til we got to the icing
then Mrs.
von S. took her for a long walk. But tho we hid it pretty
well, she
spied it this eve. We are enjoying the folks so much. They
went to
another kraal.
Wed.
Aug. 2
We
had the cake this noon. I stuffed some dates & gave her
some
gum. Folks want to get off early. Mr. Downing said a Miss
Steiner
is to come here for nursing & Miss des Forges arrives
this week.
so it may be both will come. Took picture.
Thur.
Aug. 3
Mts
clear this morning. so took another of the group. Jno &
I left
right after they went. Mr. S. took us along the road
opposite a
village where we expected to get porters but got none til 4
P.M. But
got on a bit toward the forest. Lovely moon & nice camp
fire. Milaun & 3 others are carriers.
Fri.
Aug. 4
Got
away in good time & after wading some high grass &
no path we
got to fire break. Then a bit thro the forest into the big
gorge by
9 A.M. Stopt several times for tea & by 2 P.M. reached a
Waterloo boulder we couldn’t get up. So turned back &
camped
near the place we entered. Lovely sand & lots of fire
wood. Grand day wonderful as fairy land.
Sat.
Aug. 5
Started
down gorge but after 15 min. got to another Waterloo.
Returned &
were over the divide into small gorge & down to junction
by 11. Then Jno went up large gorge 10 min. only to
Waterloo. Came on &
while following the furrow met a well educated Chaga who
asked us to
his house for tea. From there we sent Milaun in with note
for Mr S.
to meet us at stoney crossing for we have blisters &
rubbed
paces. He came. We had nice baths. Glad to be back.
Sun.
Aug. 6
A
few school boys out. We are very stiff & sore - so did
not
exercise much. But we did have a grand time. The gorge is
wonderful. and could easily be gone up with the help of a
short
ladder in a few places. Ferns & vines & wild flowers
&
over hanging rocks - all along.
Mon.
Aug. 7
Some
mail yesterday. Mr Whitehouse & Mr Oganby called. They
had a
break down coming from Kajiado. John started the fire place.
&
Mr S. tried sawing but didn’t go very well. Don’t know of
what
they will make the walls. Still stiff but it goes better.
Wrote
Mrs. Leasure. No class tonight.
Tues.
Aug. 8
Ab’t
3 P.M. Norman Johnsons & Bretta J. drove in on their way
from
Mombasa. Came from Lanys. Boys got all ironing done. by our
helping
& pushing them. J’s want us to come to Kangundo instead
of
going to Machakos.
Wed.
Aug. 9
Very
heavy fog all day. Jno & Mr. J. went fishing but got
lost til
noon when it lifted. Mr S went to School to teach class
& then
bot stones for grinding corn!!! We knitted & chatted
&
froze. Mr. W. called for tea, after a shauri with Masai.
Wrote
Machakos we are going to Kangundo.
Thur.
Aug. 10
Washed
sweater & blue skirt. Not very peppy - but head achey.
didn’t
knit as much as yesterday. Started a letter to Mrs.
Bischoff. Violin music tonight. Boys in kitchen say they’ve
not been paid &
Mrs. S. says she has pd. them. Reading “Eugenie Grandet”. by
Balzac. Mr S sawing boards.
Fri.
Aug. 11
Folks
got away by 7. We were all up early. Hope they got to
Mulango all
right. They were awfully loaded. Jno was going to put the
stove
pipe up from fire place but Mrs. S. objects so he stopt. Mr.
S. made
doors for garage. Boys in kitchen are acting better. Karioki
spoke
to them.
Sat.
Aug. 12
Shaffers
13th anniversary. I baked a cake yesterday &
buns &
bread today. Mt. was so pretty this morn. Lots of snow on
this
side. Mr. W. came for hi tea. Talked language. Jno is not
satisfied about “aiyero”. He thinks it should be “aiyoro”.
Swim suit ab’t ready for arm holes.
Sun.
Aug. 13
Good
crowd of boys out to mtgs. John spoke at main mtg & we
had
communion. Otherwise the day was as usual. quiet &
restful. Took a long walk as usual. Wrote Mrs Hoyt.
Mon.
Aug. 14
Washed
- and puttered around. John wrote the boys. I started one to
the
girls. Some of the clothes have to be washed over again.
Don’t
know where mail is. Mr W. said he sent it.
Tues.
Aug. 15
I
helped some with ironing. Finished most every thing. Am
getting
Jno’s suit near completion Just straps to do. & took a
piece
off bottom as it was too long. Mail finally came. Wonder
where
Scudder is celebrating. [birthday]
Wed.*
Aug. 16
Mr
S. went to school. for meeting & to deliver posho.
Haven’t
much ambition. Spent all A.M. dressing up Grace’s little
doll so
she will leave her big one here. Got the car at the door
& have
boxes on side packed.
Thur.
Aug. 17
Awful
back ache all day. Guess it’s lumbago. Head aches too some -
but
not so much as yesterday. Packed our tin box & most
every thing
is on the car. Are to have tea at 11 at Whitehouses
tomorrow.
Fri.
Aug. 18 Simba
We
were an hour late in leaving so Mr. Whitehouse gave us
lunch. Then
ab’t 2 we got away. The spring was cracked before we left
& by
the time we got to Simba several leaves were loose & tho
Mr S.
worked til 9- he wasn’t sure twould go. We slept here
instead of
Emali Station.
Sat.
Aug. 19 Mboni
After
stopping many times & wiring a block of wood in place of
spring
we finally arrived at Mboni. Mrs. S. left on train at 4:30
A.M. for
Nairobi. Had a lovely dinner of chicken etc at Miss Newmans.
Mrs
Stephenson wants grace to stay til end of school. Patsy
& Grace
are having such good times.
Sun.
Aug. 20 Kangundo.
We
left Grace. First she was delighted with the idea but later
didn’t
want to but we left while she was playing tho she saw us
& cried. Mrs S. got her away. Didn’t expect to go to
Kangundo but car
rides better. took air out of front tires. Lovely evening of
music -
all kinds. & good chicken dinner again.
Mon.
Aug. 21 Nairobi.
Got
in ab’t 9:15. Met Mrs S. on the street. Jno got teeth fixed.
Can’t get cash for draft but they send it home to have it
OKed. Mrs. Harrison at Slater’s also Miss Stevenson. Dr.
Burkitt says
Mrs. S. is alright but advises her to come to Maia Carberry
hospital
but she would rather go to Kaimosi.
Tues.
Aug. 22 Kijabe.
Went
to sale all A.M. Got a lovely mirror & other things -
got beds
another place. Left for Kjb by 2 P.M. Are at Downings. So
nice to
see Mrs D. again. Scudders & Miss Holman & Miss des
Forges
came to see us. Miss Grindley went to Nairobi today to help
Mr
Pittpitts.
Wed.
Aug. 23
Nice
to have a day to visit. Called on Grandma Myers & had
tea at
Holmans & staid to prayer mtg. Scudders are going out
with us.
will drive our car. We took everything heavy off the truck
yesterday
& left at foot of hill with 2 boys to watch it. Can’t
realize
we’ll be home tomorrow night. Lovely mail here for us.
Claudon is
with the boys.
Thur.
Aug. 24 HOME [Siyabei]
We
got in by 2:30 & the truck by 3. Found every thing in
good shape
except that everything is very dry. The garden looks
desolate. The trees in front of house are brown tho perhaps
not all
dead. Got things somewhat unpacked. Scudders are in west
room &
Shaffers in east. Several have come to greet us.
Fri.
Aug. 25
Busy
cleaning & putting things away and men putting up ram.
North
made a mistake in the pipe he sent. it’s too big but we are
putting
it together temporarily & water is running
into the garden. Some of the trees
will be
saved. Got some meat. are getting 3 tins of milk. So
thankful. Wanjeri died last Fri. So sorry but he has been
ill long & it is
better.
Sat.
Aug. 26
[page
damaged] Men getting pipes running in the kitchen yet… it
rained
quite steady this … Had boys come to go over wor… they don’t
agree with us nor with … John rather discouraged about i…
Sun.
Aug. 27
[page
damaged] Meetings as usual. Scudders, ...a & I went to
Narok. Hospital ...as boys are having vacation. ...nounced
communion for
next …. Kuyoni went to Nairaq N. to see Mbaei but came back
&
said M. wouldn’t see him.
Mon.
Aug. 28
While
eating supper Mbaei & Gashisha came in - looks like M.
has gotten
frightened. Mr. Shaffer was going to the DC about it but now
they
will shauri tomorrow. Washed a big wash. Susana did most.
Shaffers
cleaning in their house. Melting & straining honey. It
is
lovely.
Tues.
Aug. 29
The
shauri came out fine. M. agreed to 4 cattle & 50 sh.
which was
pd. at once & he & K. went to Kjb with Mr. S. &
Scudders
& will settle up every thing & bring Wambui back. M.
looks
very bad. has been very sick. Ab’t 11 when we were ready for
early
lunch Mrs Dawson & Mrs. Lambert drove up. Staid to
lunch. So
glad to see Mrs D. again.
Wed.
Aug. 30
Ngoso
ironed all A.M. but didn’t finish. I baked cookies. Had
prayermtg
tonight. Are reading Murray’s “The Master’s Indwelling” very
good. Finished crocheting around arms & neck of John’s
swimming suit. He works in garden every day.
Thur.
Aug. 31
Expected
Mr. S. & children in tonight but they didn’t come. Some
one
wrote that Stephensons weren’t coming til today. That may
have
caused the delay. 7 out to prayer mtg. Gave Mulungit 1.50
& he
is bringing milk to pay it back. All have been assessed in
order to
pay Sitoya his back wages.
John
told church folks last Sun. he had communion cards to give
to those
who believed they were elegable to them. A few came on Mon.
to ask
ab’t if they could take them. Mulungit & Maringu among
them. Jno spoke with them for awhile & they said they
had done bad but
would do so no more!!!
Fri.
Sept. 1
They
got in ab’t 3. the boys came first walking - then the girls
&
Miss des Forges. finally the car. all had tea here &
then all
went there for supper. Mr. S. says the Fords & Browns
are in
Nairobi so wont come here on Mon. night. Barnetts are coming
sometime. He brot potatoes & vegs. & parts to finish
water
system - so we will soon have it in the house.
Sat.
Sept. 2
Sent
Waweru with letters & expected he’d bring the Thurs.
mail, but
George told him there was none - so he did not ask for it.
Jack
cleaned some & I baked cookies & cleaned my room.
Wrote to
Scudders Sr. Had hi tea here & then talked ab’t what to
do
tomorrow.
Sun.
Sept. 3
Largest
crowd we have had in a long time. Jno spoke very strongly on
the
awfulness of taking communion when the heart is not right -
but
several of the elders came forward for it but not the women.
Miss
des Forges & Ruth M went to Narok with me. Waited til
10:30 then
the mail came. Saw Dawsons & Lamberts.
Mon.
Sept. 4
Jack
did most of the washing. As I think of yesterdays meeting I
can’t
feel very happy about it but the Lord knows John did the
best he
thot. Took supper to the Lake & when most ready to eat
Mr.
Clarke came - he joined us.
Tues.
Sept. 5
Waweru
went with Kuyoni to take the cattle to Nairaq Ngare. We ate
dinner
at S’s. but Mr. Clarke came here for supper. John’s leg
troubles
him a lot. has a nasty sore on his shin. They worked at ram
&
pipes. It was knocking this morning so the put in the
reducer. but
its too expensive & we sent a letter of protest.
Wed.
Sept. 6
I
ironed yesterday & finished it today. Also baked lots of
bread. Sent Jack to Narok with letters so cleaned &
worked in kitchen
all A.M. Ate both meals at Ss. Kuyoni & Waweru returned.
Mbaegi received the cattle now he must get a sheep for the
mother. Prayermtg here.
Thur.
Sept. 7
Jno
staying in bed. His leg is so sore. Mr. S. took prayer mtg -
12
out. Waweru went for mail & as it came in late he ran to
get
here by dark. Brot lots of nice letters. R. wrote from Minn.
had
been at World’s Fair & Monroe. Were having a nice trip.
Fri.
Sept. 8
Mr.
Clarke here to supper. Jno trying to get around on crutches
but it
doesn’t go very well. Wrote some letters this eve. Jack will
go
to Narok tomorrow.
Sat.
Sept. 9
John
did suffer last night. The bandage seems to trouble so. Miss
des
Forges looked at it today & brot ointment - Iodex -
which seems
to be drawing well. & this eve we are using adhesive
tape. Music
here.
Sun.
Sept. 10
Had
a bad head most all day. Didn’t eat dinner but went to
Narok. Went to school & found some boys there.
They remembered
many of the verses. Harry D. played the cornet. Not much
mail.
Mon.
Sept. 11
Waweru
did most all the washing. Jno just stays in bed. tho he sat
up on
the edge & worked the type writer. Miss des F. came into
the
room for language lesson. Went for a swim. Nice but pretty
cold. Note from Mrs Lambert asking us to lunch Wed. or Fri.
Tues.
Sept. 12
Ironed
& made curtains up stairs. Waweru went to Narok with
letter to
Mrs. Lambert also for post. Mr. Clarke called just at supper
time.
but couldn’t well ask him to stay as we eat on tiny table by
bed. Jno’s leg much better.
Wed.
Sept. 13
Prayermtg
this eve. Cleaned the dining room today & it needed it.
Have
upstairs rooms about ready too. Are using only Mercurochrome
on J’s
leg now. it is not so harsh as iodex. Will post mats in next
mail
for 3/80.
Thur.
Sept. 14
Mr.
Shaffer again took the prayer mtg. 9 present. Mr. Clarke
brot mail. Mrs. Barnett has had an operation and so wont
come out here. Scudders hope to come out at end of month.
Buxton & officials
have shauri on the 25th.
Fri.
Sept. 15
Had
a pretty good shower this eve. Mr. Clarke wrote up to know
if we’d
come down for tripe supp. but Jno is not yet standing on his
foot so
asked him to bring em up & we ate it on the little table
beside
J’s bed.
Sat.
Sept. 16
Rained
hard! Parmale came. The Drs. got here just before
dark but
evidently wandered around quite a bit as they went 18 miles
after
leaving Narok before getting here. Jno was up today but his
leg
troubles him quite a bit so asked Mulungit to speak
tomorrow.
Sun.
Sept. 17
Mr
S. drove to Narok for us for I feared ‘twould rain but it
didn’t. We took Siloles bro. to hospital. Didn’t wait for
mail as
Clarke’s boy was there & said he’d bring it. All had
cafateria supper here. Then a good sing & Mr. S. read
&
prayed. Dr. spent most of the day beside Jno’s bed.
Mon.
Sept. 18
It’s
nice to have Parmale on the job again. He did most washing.
Jack
finished. Picnic supper at pond after every one had a good
swim. A
grand evening so warm & pleasant. No sign of more rain.
We wish
it would come again. Jno up to dinner but staid in bed all
PM.
Tues.
Sept. 19
Baked
squash pies for both tables & date cookies. Parmale
ironed. After dinner Mr. S. took the grownups & wanted
to go to the large
spring up the river but they didn’t find it. but went too
far -
evidently. had their supper there. Robin was so nice with
us. Grace
staid too. Bridget came.
Wed.
Sept. 20
Sent
word to Mrs. Barnett ab’t Bridget being here. Hope to hear
Sun. All here to prayermtg tonight. Jack went with letters.
Folks
talking ab’t climbing Longonot on way home. We suggest they
leave
Robin here & go to Nairobi etc & come back this way.
Don’t
know what they’ll do.
Thur.
Sept. 21
Started
letter to boys. Grownups went to Narok in Drs. car. thot
they’d
bring vegs. but the lorry didn’t come in. Will send Waweru
tomorrow for mail & see if vegs. come. Only 5 out to
prayermtg.
Fri.
Sept. 22
It
was suggested we go to hi falls today but no one seemed very
eager so
we dropt it. Shaffers came over for music. I mended
stockings. The
days pass so fast can’t get all done I want to.
Sat.
Sept. 23
Baked
some pies. Lions are greatly troubling & men want poison
from Mr
Clarke. but he has only just come in from Nairobi. & its
9 P.M. Drs. are talking of going on Mon. to Nairobi. but
nothing is decided.
Sun.
Sept. 24
Meetings
as usual. As we went to Narok School- I was speeding up to
get up
hill & got to one side of the ridge in the road & in
trying
to get to the other side I shot into the brush. Those behind
bumped
their heads. Very grateful that nothing on car seems hurt
only horn
wont toot. All at Shaffers for supper. Here for sing.
Mon.
Sept. 25
Mr.
Clarke up for supper. All but Mrs S. Miss des F. & I
went to
falls for picnic. They went into the valley to eat, &
scrambled
out the steep place. Every one rather tired. I worked all
day. Parmale washed. Trimming up the wattle trees. They are
very dry.
Tues.
Sept. 26
Olgoyai
has come & wants Bridget back but she wont so are
applying for
divorce. Went below the rapids for dinner. All went in truck
along
the road. Not Mrs. S. Roasted potatoes in the oven before we
went
& baked bread. Parmale ironed. Clarke up to supper &
we
down for music. Robin at S’s.
Wed.
Sept. 27
Sent
Waweru with letters. No picnic today but we all went in for
a swim
only not
Robin. After supper went to Ss for a sing &
prayer. & then the others played games. I started the 2nd
sock for Mrs S.
Thur.
Sept. 28
Windy. Parmale washed up all sheets etc. They got
off by 6:10. I was up
at 4:15. They hoped to reach Eldama Ravine for tonight but I
wonder
if they did for it would be all of 200 mi. Hope Mrs S.
stands the
trip alright. Letter from Andersens - they will be here Mon
night.
Fri.
Sept. 29
Awful
windy. Wonder if the folks are at Kaimosi. Doubt it.
Ironed. Baked cakes & cookies. Mended khaki. Asked Mr.
C. to
supper, then we went down afterwards to hear new records.
Fine. Got
quite a piece knitted tonight. How well I remember a yr.
ago. [At
Kaimosi, awful night, sick from lime juice, traveling in mud
with
chains on tires, beautiful Broderic Falls.]
Sat.
Sept. 30
Parmale
has decided to come back for next mo. at .50 a day & 1
bit of
soap. Jack is to get Sh 6. & if there’s much extra -
then
another. Mr. S. has decided to leave on Mon. so Ngoso washed
up &
ironed. He had a spell last night - something like a fit -
but caused
by anger. Alright today.
The
mo. passed very pleasantly. Enjoyed the guests. Sorry
Barnetts did
not get here due to her operation. Glad she is doing so
well. In a
way, it is a relief to have Mrs. S. where there is a Dr. for
she is
so uncomfortable. This mo. has simply sped too fast.
Sun.
Oct. 1
Shaffers
had dinner & sup. here. Sup. very late for we waited for
mail &
tho it came ab’t 5:15 it took long to distribute. One from
boys &
also Alice. Every one had too many letters to read so we had
no
sing. nor mtg.
Mon.
Oct. 2
School
opened. Shaffers got off by 9. Grace is upstairs with Miss
des F. Letter yesterday from Mrs Andersen said they’d be
here tonight but
haven’t come & I got very nice dinner for them &
made beds
in Shaffer house. A letter from Scudders say they will be
out Wed.
or Thur. & two guests with them making 5 & 3 boys!!!
Tues.
Oct. 3
Parmale
finished washing today. Susana cleaned up Shaffers house. So
all
there is ready for Scudders - but the guest house is not
cleaned yet. Jno has raked & trimmed cactus - so front
looks orderly. A few
clouds but no rain. Went for swim but not Miss des F for she
felt
badly. Prayermtg this eve.
Wed.
Oct. 4
Parmale
ironed part. Went to school. Cleaned & fixed up guest
house for
Mr Webster. Didn’t wait supper tonight tho & it is just
as
well, for no one has come. Finished girls’ letter. Didn’t
have
sewing class for I thot I was too busy.
Thur.
Oct. 5
They
came sailing in about 3 oclock - so Jno went over &
asked
Mulungit to take the meeting. Had tea & early supper for
they
had no lunch. The lorry came just at dark. Sitoya went for
mail. Some home mail. Nice to see Miss Bryden again.
Fri.
Oct. 6
Folks
here to meals all day. Now stove is up and they are ready to
keep
house. Asked Parmale to cut wood this A.M. but it wasn’t
wise for
he had many words tonight. Don’t think I’ll keep him after
this
mo. Lovely letter from Sara yesterday - also Lo. &
others.
Sat.
Oct. 7
Got
work all done nicely before dinner & every one in good
spirits. Have things ready for supper tomorrow night. Sent
letters by Sitoya. S’s ab’t settled - cooked & baked on
new stove & it does
very well. it was sent them straight out from home.
Sun.
Oct. 8
Scudders
& I went to Narok. Waited quite a while for post. They
took
thermos flasks of tea along. It is so warm these days. &
so
windy - like Jan. Had sing & little meeting here
tonight. After
supper Mr. S. not feeling very well.
Mon.
Oct. 9
Parmale
washed all A.M. I went to school. Took Grace along. Got very
black
in north & east but we got mostly cold wind - only a
little rain. Do hope for more tomorrow.
Tues.
Oct. 10
Jno
& Mr S. went to Narok & paid extra poll tax. Took
Grace
along. Their cook has to go to Kjb. tomorrow so wrote Mrs.
Shaffer. Got a letter from her today. Am sending the toffy
left by her to her
children by this boy tomorrow. Very warm this eve.
Wed.
Oct. 11
Had
sewing class with good attendance. School as usual. Parmale
picked
mulberries at Clarke’s. Had some for supper. Very nice. Had
picnic supper at pond. They all seemed to enjoy it. Mrs. S.
not
very well. bad cold. Praymtg here.
Thur.
Oct. 12
Tea
at the neighbors. Not many out to prayer mtg. Mulungit
killed ox. We got meat. Parmale asked to go home after work
was done. He seems
to have a go of fever. Mail came too late for Soibi to wait
for it. Have asked Morima to go tomorrow.
Fri.
Oct. 13
Elija
wanted to leave early so I finished school for him. Some
want to
come to night school if Mr. S. will teach. Morima came at
dark with
post. local only. but Miss Bryden had a lot. Went for a
swim. Wrote
Guithers.
Sat.
Oct. 14
Mulungit
went with letters. Plenty to do as Parmale didn’t come. but
got
thro with all in good time & had bath before lunch.
Sun.
Oct. 15
Mr
Scudder drew little Jetts [?] on board to tell the story of
David &
Goliath. Boys were captured by it. Ab’t 58 present. 6
others. We
thot post hadn’t come & waited over an hr. then found
out it
was in. Not much of anything. Parmale not here.
Mon.
Oct. 16
Susana
washed. Parmale came & said he wanted a wk off as he was
not
well. So asked Morima to come tomorrow. I pd. Parmale. Girls
are
going to Nairobi on Wed. with lorry. So hot & windy
these days. Susana didn’t quite finish all.
Tues.
Oct. 17
Asked
Jack to finish the bit of washing before school. at first he
refused
then did it. Susana ironed. When I got to school there was a
noise
in my room. The ink bottle had been tipped over & the
typed
paper I had taken was awfully blotted. All an accident. Hard
day
all thro.
Wed.
Oct. 18
They
left ab’t 10. Every one sort o’ upset. Guess it’s heat for
it
is hot. I had peculiar sick headache last eve. Gave up my
supper
then went to bed early. Better today. Others are upset too.
Rained
some just after dinner but stopt by sewing time. so had
class.
Thur.
Oct. 19
Morima
went so that Jethro would not need to come in by himself.
They got
here just at dark. Lovely mail. Letter from boys. Claudon
had some
money & was hoping to come with this mo. party. R. wrote
me. Other nice letters too. Kendalls are ready to come but
some one is
objecting.
Fri.
Oct. 20
Parmale
says he will come on Mon. Got cloudy but only wind. Scudders
seem
so alone - but guess they don’t mind. Opened part of sweater
&
did over. Staid in school most all A.M. Prayer day so spent
the
evening with the letter. Mrs S. not well. he in school.
Sat.
Oct. 21
Pretty
full program but got all done tho ate dinner a bit late. Jno
put new
screen on meat cupboard. Mrs. Dawson called just a bit -
asked us
there on the 7th. Wonder if I should have spoken
more
than I did to her. God bless her & help me to say what’s
helpful always.
Sun.
Oct. 22
Miss
des F. went to Narok too so Grace was left with Jno. When we
got
back there wasn’t a word of greeting - she just said “I’m
going
to bed early”. which, of course, told the story of the P.M.
Miss
Grindley writes from Nairobi that Mrs Downing is still
suffering &
Drs had not reported what was best to do.
Mon.
Oct. 23
Parmale
on the job again. Jack gets more provoking every day. It’s
high
time he is off work for a while. When I called for A.M. tea
Scudders
came marching in. The tank keeps running over so are sending
for
another “tap” which will take off more water.
Tues.
Oct. 24
Writing
Mrs. Downing & Mrs Probst. Scudders class seem to be
real
interested. Pressed Sara’s sweater & cap. and am getting
on
with the scarf. Want to send it early next week.
Wed.
Oct. 25
Everything
as usual. Sewing class. Ab’t 5 P.M. Mr. Clarke drove in
&
sent word up he’d like to come for supper. so he did. but
being
tired he didn’t stay long. so Scudders came over for pray
mtg.
Thur.
Oct. 26
Didn’t
send for mail. Jethro goes tomorrow. Jno & I went to Mr
C’s
for music. He didn’t care to come up to supper. Knitted a
lot at
the sweater.
Fri.
Oct. 27
Butter
came & some letters. Mrs Probst wrote Mrs. Downing was
being
operated on. hadn’t received any word as to outcome. She
suffers a
good deal. Hope we hear again on Sun. To Mr C’s again for
music
as he leaves tomorrow. Had picnic supper at river. S’s asked
us -
twas lovely.
Sat.
Oct. 28
Thot
we were getting off by 9 but S’s battery was run down. Mr.
C. came
up ab’t 11 for tea. We finally got away 11:30 & all went
well
til almost at the river when it suddenly would not go - not
even tho
we pushed a lot. We ate lunch & then packed & closed
it up &
started for home Mr. & Mrs S. going on fast to get
Sun.
Oct. 29
our
car & come back for us. We got to where our road leaves
Narok
Rd. & built a big fire & waited. Mr. S returned
about 8:15. We got here ab’t 9 then a bit to eat & hot
baths. Most every
one was very lame & sore from pushing car & walking.
Grace
did fine. Mr. & Mrs. S. went out early this (Sun.) morn
&
got their car in. Letter from Mrs Probst. Mrs. Downing is
failing
fast
Mon.
Oct. 30
her
trouble is cancer & she suffers so they keep her under
an opiate. We are all praying with them that she may soon be
released.
Mon. I dreamed all night ab’t her but today feel
quite calm and at
peace ab’t her. Spoke to Parmale ab’t the work for next mo.
Will give him Sh. 20 & he gets his own help.
Tues.
Oct. 31
Pd.
milk & boys. Thank God I had enuf. for all. Quite a
windy rain
this eve. but a good deal fell. hope we get more tomorrow.
Jack
feels pretty badly that he can’t work here next mo. may want
him
again by Dec. but am sure it is best to dismiss him.
Haven’t
all the milk we’d like [arrow drawn to same situation
previous
year] but have more than I expected. Still get a tea tin
& 2
Quaker Oats tins. divide with Scudders. Miss des Forges went
fishing
& caught 3 such nice large ones & several small
ones. School
keeps on tho Elija gets but Sh 8. Do wonder so if Mrs. D.
has passed
on.
Wed.
Nov. 1
Had
quite a nice shower with lots of wind. Hope we get more.
Loitam
went with letters. Nice prayermtg this eve. Jnos thigh stays
so
lame - & numb. Parmale thot he’d try it alone this mo.
Thur.
Nov. 2
Scudders
got Miss Grindley at Narok & Parmale went to see the Dr.
&
then staid so Morima is helping. P. doesn’t think he can do
it
alone - so will likely keep M. on any way. Such nice letter
from R.
& pictures of Sara. Copy of one from Campbell to Bouyse
in Congo
ab’t Claudon for pigmies. He’s abt ready to come.
Fri.
Nov. 3
Mrs.
D. was still alive at last report - no change. Parmale not
yet back. Jnos leg is sore again. The old place has opened.
Mr S. is putting
eupad on. Grace has been so trying today. Getting letters
ready
this eve.
Sat.
Nov. 4
A
week ago! Jno staid in bed all day today. Mr. S. is taking
care of
it this time. Seems sort of healed over this eve. We were
going
“rim of world” walk & started up past the canyon &
then
couldn’t find the road at top of hill & went in a circle
&
came down the same way we went up! Sprinkled tho thundered
awful &
got black.
Sun.
Nov. 5
And
now we hear Mrs. Downing went Home at 12:30 Fri. night. Was
buried
yesterday at Kijabe. Miss des F. had uncertain news of her
mother -
nothing definite as tho they were hiding something she feels
very
badly ab’t it all. Scudders & I went today. Next Sun.
Miss
Grindley will go. Jno up for services - communion - not for
sup.
Mon.
Nov. 6
Saw
Parmale yesterday. He’s not very ill but must stay awhile
yet. Susana washed today. also helpt Miss Grindley. Morima
works well but
can’t do all. Jno got up for Miss des F. class. & then
staid
dresst for P.M. class too. Grace was naughty this P.M. so
put her to
bed early & she got very spunky.
Tues.*
Nov. 7
I
ironed between times. Expect Boma folks tomorrow for tea so
had
sewing class this P.M. Will make it a hi tea & no
supper. Wrote Downings, Barnetts & Shaffer. Jno gets up
for A.M. class -
& stays til after supper. His leg still festering.
Wed.
Nov. 8
After
baking & cleaning all A.M. at noon a retainer came with
a note to
say Mrs Dawson is sick & so none will come. After
language class
we had tea here. Prayermtg this eve. Every body fished but
Jno went
back to bed his leg troubles more today.
Thur.
Nov. 9
Such
a lot out to prayer mtg that we had to have it in the big
room. If
they continue to come out so well we may have the women’s
separate
again as formerly. Had language from 2 to 3.
Fri.
Nov. 10
Only
local mail - from Mrs. Shaffer. & one from Mrs Probst
telling
ab’t Mrs. D’s funeral. It must have been lovely. Wrote late
as
Jethro wants to go early in the morning. Wrote Mrs. Dawson.
Sat.
Nov. 11
Decided
to go on a picnic below the rapids. Mr. S. drove the car
& Dad
rode. Got back ab’t 3. A retainer was here with a lovely
letter
from Mrs Dawson. Dad caught lots of beetles last eve &
the
chickens liked ‘em fine.
Sun.
Nov. 12
Miss
Grindley & Miss des Forges went to Narok with Mr.
Scudder. First
Sun. P.M. I have had at home for over a year. I enjoyed it.
Read &
wrote Al. Grace was quiet tho didn’t sleep. Had letter ab’t
Mrs. D. in with the prayer letter. Paper says 18th
Amend.
repealed. How sad.
Mon.
Nov. 13
Parmale
back on the job. Washed. Morima stays on too. Jno is kept
pretty
busy - with class from 10-12 and another 2:30-4. and
correcting
translations for typing. but there is something being
accomplished.
Tues.
Nov. 14
Parmale’s
mother & sister were cutting on the far side of the pond
&
Jno went down & stopt ‘em. When P. finished his work at
noon
he went down & cut - just for spite so Jno went again
& P.
talked so bad - Jno told him to clear out. he wouldn’t have
such
disrespect. So Morima did up the eve work alone.
Wed.
Nov. 15
Parmale
came to me at sewing class & wanted his shs. said he’d
not come
to the house. He owned he was very angry but that they were
only
taking the dry brush & Bwana doesn’t own that place!!!
So
Morima will carry on & I’ll hire help for wood &
washing.
Thur.
Nov. 16
Hurra! O boy! A letter from Claudon says he is
booked to sail Nov. 9. That means he is Eng. now. He comes
with Winsors who stopt in
Belgium for French. He’ll land here in time for Xmas. if not
for
his birthday. We’ll likely go to Nairobi to meet him.
Fri.
Nov. 17
Mulungit
got some cash for me. Miss des F. gave me Sh 40. in notes.
Mr.
Scudders night school didn’t come last night & I thot
Morima
wasn’t coming this morn. he came so late but everything
seems as
usual. Had a shower this eve. Hope for more.
Sat.
Nov. 18
How
well I remember a yr ago [At Miss Slaters in Nairobi,
shopping.] and
next mo. we’ll be going for Claudon I hope & today the
party
get to Nairobi. Shall be eager to hear if all have arrived.
Fishing
this PM. Dad & I had a swim then I almost finished my
green
dress. Guess I’ll try to make Grace one too.
Sun.
Nov. 19
Scudders
& I went to Narok. Mail was there when we got there so
after
hospital came right home. Had a load for Nyakeiru had come
& had
loads which we brot besides vegs. While at supper a sick man
from
Nairaq Ngare came & Mr. S. is looking after him.
Mon.
Nov. 20
Miss
des F. worked with the sick man too but they took him to
Narok also
Pilisila’s mother. but she returned as they had no empty
bed. Some
home mail. & word from Kjb. Winsors come Dec. 15. So we
want to
go to Nairobi on the 14th. for shopping etc.
Lunch at
Scudders.
Tues.
Nov. 21
I
ironed. Not much to do. Jethro will do Miss des F’s dress
tomorrow. Finished my dress worked at Graces. Got several
letters
ready for post. went up to see Nyakeiru last eve. She looks
very
thin. Was at Kjb a month.
Wed.
Nov. 22
While
at school Mulungit came & said he was very sick. Thot
Nyakeiru
had poisoned his food. Mr. Scudder took him to hospital but
the Dr.
said no poison symptoms. Sewing class. I don’t know what the
trouble has been between M. & N. but they aren’t very
happy to
each other.
Thur.
Nov. 23
Mulungit
came back today. Says pain is all gone. He even came to
prayermtg. Kamau brot the mail on the big cycle. Letter from
Ray & some
magazines from home. Letter from Mrs Probst asking us to
stay there.
Fri.
Nov. 24
How
excited we were a year ago. [trying to decide about going to
U.S.A.]
but I feel lots better about our excitement this year. I
just can’t
realize we’ll be seeing Claudon in about 3 more wks. That
beats
going home. God is good & we do praise him. Milaun
taught in
Elija’s place.
Sat.
Nov. 25
Work
as usual. Miss Grindley baked 2 fruit cakes for me. One
burned but
will be easily fixed up. they look good. Tried hard to rain.
succeeded a bit but mostly wind & bluster. Shut up 3
hens for
Xmas.
Sun.
Nov. 26
Miss
Grindley takes the little class in S.S. every Sun. and today
Mrs. S.
took the larger girls. Misses G. & des F went to Narok.
Exhaust
pipe broke off. Mrs S. & I had tea & then a walk
when they
came.
Mon.
Nov. 27
Susana
washed. terribly windy so things dried quickly. I worked in
hen
house. Cloudy & threatening but that’s all. Every one is
laughing at Mulungit now for it is very evident there was
nothing in
his food. He says she must leave.
Tues.
Nov. 28
Other
house hard at letter writing getting them off in this mail
for Xmas. Something has gone wrong with the type writer.
I’ve written a
number at Kjb. etc.
Wed.
Nov. 29
Tomorrow
is really Thanksgiving Day but we’re not doing any thing
about it. We are thankful but we wont have a feast.
Thot sure ‘twould
rain. but no. Went for a swim. Grace went too & got
right under
the water. She said she dived but she really fell.
Thurs.
Nov. 30
Indeed
we are thankful for we had a nice letter from Claudon. air
mail from
Southampton. He’s sure enuf coming on the Watussi and 2 wks
from
tonight we will be in Kjb. Mr Devitt also wrote that he’d
take us
in. So that’s alright. Mrs. Shaffer was still right side up
on
the 25. Mr S. may go up.
Say,
don’t I feel happier this year than last. [was unsure about
going
to U.S.A.] I can’t think that we made a mistake by not going
- and
too it looks as tho we may be glad by another yr. that we
didn’t go
to So Af. tho Claudon could have come up with us alright.
Fri.
Dec. 1
Teaching
new Xmas song to School. Soaking apples for mince meat. Will
make
it tomorrow. Played tene quoit. Got very black & rained
a bit. Sewed at pongee dress. Thot there might be enuf left
for Grace but
there is not. Wrote a couple letters. Do hope we hear from
Mrs S.
on Sun.
Sat.
Dec. 2
Baked
some. Rained quite a nice shower. Wonder if they will keep
up. Made mince meat. Talked with Nyakeiru. She wants a
shauri to
vindicate herself. I encouraged her to drop it all. Don’t
know if
she will.
Sun.
Dec. 3
We
tried to go to Narok but didn’t get up hill as it slipt a
good
deal. so turned back. Heavy rain just after church. from all
directions & looks like old times. Mulungit says school
better
stop as there is work & no money for teacher.
Mon.
Dec. 4
Susana
washed. Lots of fuss ab’t school. Some want it & others
don’t
so I said let those pay who want it to go on. There was none
today
tho. We ate at Scudders. He went to Narok & got mail
&
vegs. Mrs P. sent peaches too just a taste. Miss Moody sent
cheese. Good. Sprinkle only.
Tues.
Dec. 5
Started
to rain ab’t 12 & has been at it off & on all P.M.
Lovely
quiet & soaks in fine. Every one planting. Jno put in a
lot of
seeds yesterday. I ironed today. School again but only 9
there. A
number came this morning to fuss ab’t it but I said I had
nothing
to do with it.
Wed.
Dec. 6
Jno
got some tiny pepper trees at Mr Clarkes & set them out.
Rained
again but only one shower. Set out dahlia bulbs too. Had
sewing but
most of them worked at making chains.
Thur.
Dec. 7
Sent
Ollenaisho for post but he hasn’t returned. Hasn’t rained
here
very much today. spose mail was late. Prayermtg. I didn’t go
as
my head has been bad all day. took asperin but hasn’t helpt
much.
Fri.
Dec. 8
While
at A.M. tea the mail came. card fro Miss Steiner to say Mrs
Shaffer
had an 8 lb baby girl all fine. Born the 5th. so
it is
doubtful if they can come here & surely Lasit is wholly
out of
the question.
Sat.
Dec. 9
Baked
bread but the biggest job was kalsomining the dining room
& how
nice it does look. Jno helpt with pictures & curtains so
got
thro before dinner. I’m so glad I did it. No rain today.
Sun.
Dec. 10
Mtgs.
as usual. Wamboga spoke. Letter from Mrs Hoyt said Mrs
Shaffer has
malaria so it seems still more doubtful ab’t their coming.
Shall
take Grace in to Kijabe & if they come we will bring her
back
again.
Mon.
Dec. 11
Got
terribly dark to the N.W. & we thot we’d get a down pour
but
nothing came. Susana washed. I’ve just ab’t finished my
pongee. Jno is so lame again - hard to get around. Mrs S.
was not well
yesterday but better today.
Tues.
Dec. 12
Got
so dark & threatening on all sides Jno is afraid by
tomorrow
‘twill rain hard. so we may leave after tea tomorrow A.M.
& Mr
S. drive til we see how roads are & return if we meet a
lorry.
Wed.
Dec. 13
Got
in to Kjb covered with dust. Rained in Kidong a bit. Wanted
Mr. S.
to go back with lorry but he wouldn’t. Now he goes early in
the
morning & will get there in good time. We are at
Probsts. Some
rain.
Thur.
Dec. 14
Pleasant
restful day. Long walk this morn. up the hill & down to
mill. Supper at Moodys but not Jno. he has had bad head this
P.M. This eve
at bed time word came the boat is a day or 2 days late!!!
Why, we wonder.
Fri.
Dec. 15
When
we got to Nairobi had to take the car to the garage at once.
Then
went to
Slaters. Kehreins were there had brot Gordon to hosp.
with sore eyes. Did quite a lot of shopping. How quickly one
can
spend shgs. here. Do hope we can get up to Kjb. on Sun.
Sat.
Dec. 16
Just
before coming home to Miss S’s for lunch we found the train
wont be
up til Mon. noon!! Can we possibly wait? these days seem
longer than
the 6 yrs. we’ve been separated. Shopped & got most
every
thing done. At least spent all our money.
Sun.*
Dec. 17
Quite
a lazy day of it. This P.M. we went for a walk toward the
air port -
‘twas very windy & not pleasant. Sat & talked this
eve. Dr. wont let Mrs Kehrein take Gordon home yet. not til
Thur.
Mon.
Dec. 18
Finally
at 11:30 his train came in & now he is here. So tall
& yet
the same old boy. his face hasn’t changed. Chilsons came to
Slaters too. We got to Kijabe before 6. Mrs. Probst was
already for
us. C. sleeps at Devitts. We do thank God for His goodness.
Tues.
Dec. 19
Left
Kijabe RR station at 10:10 & were here by 3:10 but the
car didn’t
go right & we feared we wouldn’t get in at all. The
timing
slipt again. Had a load but not awful large. Broke the new
thermos. So sorry.
Wed.
Dec. 20
Jno
& Claudon at the guest house. Twill be very comfy when
finished
up a bit. Trying to get money matters straight. and getting
unpacked. The house was so orderly & nice til we came.
Thur.
Dec. 21
Susana
washed large wash. Not quite finished. I made fondant &
fudge. Meeting this P.M. Mr S. & Claudon went to Narok
& brot flour
& 1 bag of potatoes. only Ramji Kanji has none. Are
wiring for
more tomorrow. Nice mail.
Fri.
Dec. 22
Baked
lots of bread & 3 pies & cookies & made candy
&
ironed. Rather a full day & am tired tonight but glad so
much is
done. Will wash my hair yet. C & I stuffed dates.
Tomorrow
the crowd come.
Sat.
Dec. 23
We
had things all moved around and were already for them when
they came
ab’t 3:30. Had tea & then supper later. Baby is a dear.
Mrs
S. looks quite well but is tired. We’re all cosy in the
guest
house & S’s are quite comfy in our room & upstairs.
Had
program this eve at school.
Sun.
Dec. 24
Services
as usual. Scudders only went to Narok. Thot they’d bring
potatoes
but the lorry broke down so brot vegs. only. Had a lovely
sing
tonight & read a Keswick address. Mr & Mrs Scudder
Sr. sent
us them. Harry D. quite sick.
Mon.
Dec. 25
Rather
busy all day but Jethro took the chickens to do. & they
were done
nicely. Mrs Scudder had the tarts done so nicely too &
the
prizes with them. Were a jolly crowd. Harry D. couldn’t be
up tho
he is better. Threatened rain but nothing came.
Tues.
Dec. 26
Have
decided to go camping tomorrow. The moon is so bright &
it is so
dry. Perhaps if we go it will rain. Wrote some letters
today. Jno
& Cl. were down river all A.M. Cl. & I had nice walk
&
talk yesterday P.M.
Wed.
Dec. 27
Got
away about 9:15. Stopt at Ngiro & Mr Surridge worked a
bit at
car. Mr Rainbow was there. Got to camp among the accacias by
noon -
had lunch & pitched tent etc & had a rest then
walked down
the valley. Saw quite fresh rhino tracks - lookt for rabbits
but saw
only pigs.
Thur.
Dec. 28
Such
a lovely camp only very dry. I wrote & knitted all A.M.
Cl. got
a few very pretty birds. Took a long walk after 3 - so my
heel got
rubbed. Sat long by fire & I read aloud. Finished
reading Paul
Patoff.
Fri.
Dec. 29
Left
camp very reluctantly by 9:15. If we weren’t expecting
Chilsons I
doubt if we’d have come back yet. Have enjoyed it so. Dad
shot at
a jackal this morn - but missed. Went up Ngiro for lunch.
Home for
tea & a nice swim. Got a lovely mail.
Sat.
Dec. 30
Morima
washed. I baked pie, cake & beans & then we all went
up to
the little stream. Drove the truck & put in about 60
talapia up
there. Brot a big load of wood down so most every one walked
back. Chilsons haven’t come so guess they wont. Wrote
Raymond.
Sun.
Dec. 31
Ruth
Marie played at Narok. All ate supper with us - cafateria
then had a
lovely sing & read from Keswick addresses. These days
are very
hot. Gets a bit cloudy but no rain & corn is up 6 in.
&
leaves are curling up.
This
year has gone so quickly. and has been so chuck full of
blessing. Perhaps the outstanding event is Claudon’s coming.
We do praise
God for His wonderful guidance in that way. and answer to
prayer.
And
now we are asking that Erik & Emily who were married
Dec. 22 be
sent out soon & also Raymond & Sara by next Xmas!
With God
all things are possible - so why not?
And
we are now anticipating a little longer visit with Claudon
by taking
him to Congo after Conf. Scudders suggested we go & they
will
look after things here. Mr. McKenrick & Mr Teasdale are
agreed
it is alright so we hope other Council members wont object.
The
fellowship in church is much improved tho not just all we’d
like to
see as yet. Every other Sun. one of the elders does the
speaking. Work at Narok still continues. We are so well,
thank God. & hope
we will not need to go home.
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