1758 February 8 (Wednesday). The Weather is much more moderate and pleasant. But my poor Wife in great Pain and Distress. P.M. She thinks greater than ever. She seems almost discouraged: they are Still of Cramp kind. But at Eve especially they were extremely great. She knows not what to do with her Self, her anguishes so great. Mrs. Whitney and Mrs. Abigail Forb. (my Neighbour Zebuluns Wife) here.[1] In the Eve Capt. Fay. I was in deep Concern for my dear Wife whose sufferings are inexpressible. We prayed with some Fervency, resigning the sorrowfull Case to our most mercifull, Covenant God in Jesus Christ our Lord. N.B. she told me a while after that her pains were altered, and She had Travail Pains upon her. About midnight I sent Thomas for Mrs. Maynard again and a few Nighest Neighbours. Mrs. Newton, Beeton, two Rice’s, Mrs. Baker, there being good Road to them.
[1]Zubulon Rice mar. Abigail Forbes, Jan. 7, 1737. Parkman used her maiden name.