Christmas. Once more
this delightful day returns, bringing with it the grateful memory of a
Saviour's birth, and of his life on earth spent in poverty and suffering that
He might bring to us salvation. There are the memories, too, of those who have
been dear to us in this world, and who are now, as we trust, enjoying a better
life in heaven.
We had spent the
evening with the children at Mr. Nathan Appleton's, where were about a hundred
persons, young and old, relatives of the family and near friends. St. Nicholas
(little Nathan) came in during the dancing, bringing a large basket on his back
in which was a pretty present for every one of the young people. Then there was
supper, and we returned to the parlors, where Mrs. Appleton arranged an
old-fashioned contra-dance and invited me to be her partner, which I accepted.
All this kept us up till quarter before eleven. But the children were awake in
the morning not less early than usual, feeling for their stockings and admiring
their presents.
We went to
Sunday-school and church. All were happy and I trust thankful. At five we went
to town and dined at Mr. William Appleton's, where there was another gathering
in the evening. At ten we left for home, bringing all at one trip, nine inside
the carriage and myself riding as footman behind. If their precious lives are
spared I would be content to ride always on the outside. May God bless them,
and grant that they may never have cause to look back with sorrow on their
present days of innocence.
SOURCE: William
Lawrence, Life of Amos A. Lawrence: With Extracts from His Diary and
Correspondence, p. 150-1
