December 31st, 1866

Thus endeth 1866. We sat the old year out and the new year in. May God in mercy forgive me the sins which I have committed in the past year.

“If Thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.” Let such be the spirit with which I am to enter on a new year.

December 22nd, 1866

Call on General Martindale in Albany about our committee on raising funds for the College, appointed at the Diocesan Convention, of which he is a member.

December 18th, 1866

After Evening Prayers dismiss the College with a little speech. I spoke of the fewness of our rules. First, the law of the land; second, the law of Christianity- we expect all to behave as Christian gentlemen, to observe the law of honor; third, we have a few rules, well known and fitted to promote the conveniences of all, and not burdensome to any.

The sophomore exhibition was given in the evening. Twelve speakers. Judges, Dr. Rankine, Rev. Mr. Edson, of Clifton Springs, and Mr. F.O. Mason, of Geneva. The first prize was awarded to Beverly Chew; the second to W.J. Cleveland. The Committee were long out, and found it very difficult to agree. The class had no supper. The programmes, printed at Auburn, failed to arrive, so that the speakers and pieces had to be announced. I had a proof. There was a burlesque by the freshmen – a very poor thing.

December 16th, 1866

I officiated alone at the early Communion at nine – a very delightful service.

December 12th, 1866

Attend the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the consecration of St. John’s Church, Canandaigua. After a dinner, Judge Smith and Dr. Schuyler, Mr. Parke and Dr. Van Ingen spoke on the subject of the division of the Diocese. All seemed to think it was feasible and ought to be effected speedily. Judge Smith said it was only a question of time.

December 9th, 1866

At Chapel Dr. Rankine joined us at Morning Service, and read the Litany and prayers. Dr. Wilson preached. In the Evening Dr. Wilson and I read the Service, and Dr. Rankine preached. A very good sermon.

St. Peter’s Church is shut up to-day on account of moving the building to another part of the lot to give place for the Memorial Church. Thus it happened that Dr. Rankine could be with us.

December 7th, 1866

Write to Bishop Coxe about The People’s College, expressing my fear about his being drawn into a large expenditure. Told him I did not see how it would materially help the College.

December 6th, 1866

Write our part of Regents’ report.

Mrs. W- – - – - – - – - – has a card party to-night. I sent a regret. I do not intend to belong to or go to these parties. Chess is pretty much crowded out. And then some people’s consciences are troubled about them. Mine is not; but I respect the scruples of others, where my example may be cited of followed.

December 5th, 1866

Letter from Bishop Coxe about People’s College. I fear that it will interfere with our effort for the College.

December 4th, 1866

Have the sophomores in declamation. Dr. Towler has, with to-day, been absent a whole week in New York to procure subjects for dissection in the Medical College. It is a serious evil, and I have said to Dr. Towler it must not happen again.

December 1st, 1866

Bishop Coxe wrote me that he has an offer from Charles Cook’s heir of The People’s College for a female [sice] seminary – that and the Ch. And four acres of ground, all for twelve thousand dollars. He wants my opinion and wants me to consult Mr. Douglas. I went to see him immediately, but found him in Rochester.