Extracts from the Diary of William Bray

man having taken a shop in Stoke, sometime ago, and selling goods vastly under the usual price, Mr. Haydon set up a shop against him, of whom I bought this morning four pair of gloves, at 7d. a pair; riding gloves, 9d.; and a pair of other gloves, 8d.

Feb. 2nd.--An hour after dinner, Miss Stevens came in.

6th.--This day being appointed for a public Fast on account of the great earthquake at Lisbon, to Middle Church.

9th.--I was bled this morning for the first time. Mrs. Martyr being about to inoculate Master Jacky, {8} and I intended to be inoculated at the same time. Drank tea with Mrs. Wilpley, and read the new farce of 'The Apprentice' to her. Gave Mr. Haydon for three pair of white silk stockings, 7s. 6d. a pair, being 4s. a pair cheaper than common.

12th.--Turnpike meeting. We all dined and spent the evening at Mr. Flutter's. Played at Pope Joan till 12.

27th.--This is evening, I, Master Jacky, and the maid were inoculated. {9}

March 5th.--Master Jacky was taken with the symptoms,