August 17, 1774

1774 August 17 (Wednesday).  My son Breck has caused Joseph Cullock to come to my work of laying Wall leading Northerly from the Store.  Mr. William Williams’s Wife and Child, with Miss Anne Williams of Sandwich, made us a Visit, dined, p.m. drank (I hope undutyed) Tea.  P.M. a great Fire broke out in Capt. Maynards Stubble of his Rye Field, Some of his men burning Brush there. The Wind was high, which caused the Fire to rage and prevail.  I rode to the plain and alarmed them from the words Capt. Maynard Spoke to me. Many gathered, but through divine Favour the Fire was stopped. There arose also a Thunder storm and an heavy Rain; and which continued into Night.  Our company lodged here. Moses Brigham came in the Eve for me to go up to his Grandmother Grout, who was thought to be dying.  I went in the Rain. She was revived and conversed.  Desired prayer. We prayed. I returned home in safety.  D.G.