January 14, 1780

1780 January 14 (Friday).  Squire Baker and two or three hands with him, which soon increased to half a dozen, drew me on a sled to the House of Mourning.  It was sharp cold, the Wind piercing, the sled goes over the Tops of Walls and Fences.  Though it was very difficult to get there, yet there were many People — as it is said by them that were with him most he dyed happily; so he was buried honourably, and great Respect shown to his Remains.  May God graciously Support the Widow, who solidly mourns the Loss; may the Fatherless find Mercy with Him that was their Father’s God.  Mr. Forbes has left, of Children, Grandchildren, and one Great grandchild, about 60.  His Brother, his Sister, his oldest Son were not could none of them be notified and therefore were absent.  There were so many Persons with Snow Shoes that there was a good Path and the Corps was carried on a Bier, on Men’s Shoulders.  I was drawn by a number of Rackettmen, in a very handsome Sleigh, with the Widow, Mrs. Abigail Forbush, and his sister, Mrs. Daniel Bond.  It was too tedious for me to stay at the Grave.  I came away before the Coffin was let down — by that time I got to Breck’s Store, I was nigh overcome, by one means and another.  The Mourners, Bearers etc. came to my House, to hear the Will.  Dr. Hawes read it.  At request, I in the Evening wrote a Letter to Mr. Forbes of Gloucester.  I wish ardently that I may truly profit by the Providence!  Elias finishes the first Vol. of Earl of Chesterfield’s Letters.