March 4, 1740

1740 March 4 (Tuesday).  Mr. Breck[1] from Springfield din’d with us.  P.M. Mr. Jonathan Barns[2] from Marlborough to bring the Request of that people that I would assist them in their Fast next week, which they had appointed on account of the Sickness among them, the Meazles and the Throat Distemper, as well as on account of their remaining under the Frowns of Divine Providence in so unsettled Circumstances.  Mr. Barns also brought a Letter from Mr. Aaron Smith with his Desires to Change next Sabbath.  Colonel Woods hath two Daughters exceeding low and in a Dangerous State by the Throat Distemper.  Mrs. Betty and Mrs. Sarah.  Mr. Jonathan Loring,[3] their Schoolmaster Sick of the Same likewise.  Mr. Breck and Mr. Barns went to Marlborough together.

[1]Rev. Robert Breck, Jr., of Springfield.

[2] Son of Deacon John Barnes.

[3]Son of Rev. Israel Loring of Sudbury.