July 11, 1770

1770 July 11 (Wednesday).  Mrs. Eunice Rice, wife of Mr. Joseph Rice, it is reported Commonly, and upon strong grounds feared, has fallen into a great sin: she sojourns at Deacon Wood’s.  I went to see her, to talk with her.  I brought to her mind how I had several Times warned her against living in so dangerous a manner as theirs was, who being in a sort Single persons, would be greatly exposed to Temptations.  She owned it was so.  She said she was sorry there was So much Occasion for my coming to See her at this Time.  Added that She hoped after a while to give satisfaction to us all.  Upon which I asked her whether She would then have me doubt, or call in Question whether she was guilty or no?  She replyed that she did neither own nor deny.  After dealing plainly with her, exhorting, Cautioning her, and defending my Visiting her (which she said She did not in any wise take in ill part) I wished her the Grace of God and took leave.  Mr. Ballard of Oxford dined here.