[Plymouth—Thursday, 27 June 1872]
Thursday. Refreshing clouds still hanging about us, otherwise it would be very warm. Came to Plymouth yesterday—Willey driving us over Thornton bridge to Sanborn’s through that exquisite scenery. Willey talks so much more than he drives, always allowing the horses to walk whenever a remark is to be made that it is weary work getting over the ground with him and needs much patience. Patience is a distinguishing virtue of his and one worthy to be learned of anybody—but one would hardly select a pleasure drive as the most congenial place for a steady exercise of that virtue.
We reached Plymouth after dark and the next morning being still cloudy we left for Boston at ½ past one first driving to see the Episcopal church near Mr. Balch’s house across the river—the oldest church in the state which Canon B. is restoring. We found the Canon in his own pleasant home where he welcomed us most hospitably and showed us his pleasant walks and the beauties of the place. His desire seems to be to establish a refuge here for the daughters of missionaries to which he seems willing to devote his energies. This idea gives an interesting motive to his residence here, & his large family and occasional visitors give them society. Altogether it appeared a lovely summer house.
Thursday night found us in our own home again. Lizzie was at the window looking out for us and everything was as pretty as flowers and good cheer could make it. Especially and first of all the good cheer of seeing L. and my good servants.
