Martha Ballard's Diary, March 20 - 24, 1802

20 7
Cloudy part of ye day, Snowd at night. I have been at home fixing Son Cyruss Cloaths, but have been very unwell. at home, unwell.  
21 1
Clear. mr Ballard to meeting all day, Ephm aftern. I have been mending Cloaths for Son Cyrus, he is going to mr Lees tomorrow. Sally & Betsy Church were here. at home.  
22 2
Clear and Pleast. Son Cyrus Sett out for wiscassett, Son Ephm went to Conduct him part of the way in a Sleigh. he is gone to tend a mill for mr Silas Lee. may God guide and Preserve him, and return him in Safety. mr Ballard is gone to the Settlement. I feel gloomy. Saml Freeman is Cuting wood at our door. Ephm returnd at Evng, informd me his Mare, with the Sleigh, fell thro ye ice opisite mr Smiths. two men Came to their asistance and, thro Gods goodness, the lives of my Sons and hors were Saved. the harness was Some damaged. at home. Son Cyrus Sett out for mr Lees at ye point. they fell thro ye ice against mr Smiths, were assisted by two men and Escaped with their lives. Dagt Ballad here.  
23 3
Clear part of ye day. Ephm went in Compy with ye Revd mr Stone, Son Lambd and Saml Page to Grealy Pond for fish. they Caught 3 only. I have been mending Stockins and Brewing. Dolly washt and went to Son Jonas. at home. Dolly went to my Sons at Evng.  
24 4
Cloudy, raind before night & at Evng. I have been mending Cloaths. Dagt Ballard & Billy dind with us. mr Ballard been to the Settlement. Ephm & Saml workt at the Shop. at home.  

Source: www.doHistory.org. Transcription courtesy of Robert and Cynthia McCausland.