Number 13
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Horatio Collins King

Sophmore Year, 2d Session

Commencing January 17, 1856

Edited by David Aaron Kates

January 1856

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February 1856

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March 1856

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January 17th. Thursday.

Wednesday evening at 3, o'clock, after having spent a most agreeable vacation, in company with Cousin Maria [Collins], left Home for Balt[imore] where we arrived at 5 and remained over night again at Mr. Creamer's. Thursday morn at 8¼ left B[altimore] and arrived in Harrisburgh at 12¾ o'clock. Took the cars again at one and arrived here at 2, not at all glad to get back. But before going farther, will give a brief of what I did at home. My time was spent in playing, dancing, skating, visiting (the girls) &c., &c. Had an agreeable (very) visit of about a weeks duration from my former Chum, John A. Munroe.⁽¹⁾ Saw also several students in W[ashington] Wrote two letters to Mattie [Porter] and received one.⁽²⁾ Wrote also to Ellen Humes as well as to Chum and several others. Attended the Presidents levee; also Congress two or three times. Dr. [Charles] Collins⁽³⁾ was in W[ashington] on New Years week and took Cis home. Joe. Culver⁽⁴⁾ passed a day with me. Made the acquaintance of Sidney Bradley, Florence Washington and many other girls; also of Charles Hammet, Leslie Lears, Ben Hodges, and others; and in time did a little of everything, too numerous to mention. Well I am again at College: my arrival was made sweet by nice kisses from all the Porter family. Elegant. Passed a very agreeable evening there.

No recitations to day. Will commence to morrow, with the exception of Prof. Tiffany⁽⁵⁾ who has assigned no recitation. The scheme for the present remains unchanged. Our band are not as yet all united. Jim Purvis⁽⁶⁾ is not here. Expect him in a few days. Not near all the students are here. After visiting at Porter's, returned to room, arranged things a little and then retired at 10 on the first night of 2d session.

January 18 Friday.

Arose at 6½ and attended prayers. Commenced recitations. Attended Johnsons room,⁽⁷⁾ and supposing a recitation had not been assigned, some 9 or 10 of us, (among which myself and Stevenson⁽⁸⁾) failed. However, Captain Perry's⁽⁹⁾ luck. Will Awl and Harkness,⁽¹⁰⁾ took some Ale; sat by a hot fire until it made me boozy. Went down to Porter's and, fool like, had a quarrel with Mattie. Told her, I did not like the way she treated me and saw we couldn't get along &c. &c. Believe she knew I was boozy although boys present said they did not perceive it. Left at 10–came to room and retired at 10½ p.m.

January 19. Saturday.

Arose at 7½. Old Custom. Forgot to say that yesterday there were two parties were engaged in my room–one playing cards the other dominos. Dr. [Collins] Came down to give Frank⁽¹¹⁾ the Monitor's roll, and caught us. I was playing dominos–not against the laws. Dr. Had Frank up to day. Made him promise not to play cards while he remained here. Frank did not implicate any of the rest of the company. Asked Frank to get the cards they were playing with. Cards (a fine new pack) belonged to Downs.⁽¹²⁾ Couldn't give him them. Took an old pack of mine, well thumbed, black and greasy and gave them to the Dr. Feels well satisfied. Dr. sent for me, but not being in at the time, he afterwards concluded that it was not necessary. So I suppose now the matter is settled. Good many students came, from the South to day–Old Students. Wanted to go out sleighing, but couldn't get a sleigh for love or money. Sang considerable this evening after which took two glasses of lager beer and pretzels to match. Came to room and retired respectably at 10 o'clock.

January 20. Sunday.

Arose at 8. Was called upon to officiate as melodeonist in 2d Presbyterian Church. Received the call. Expect to play if nothing happens for a couple of months. It is exceedingly borous. Attended twice. After church went to Mrs. Porters. Mr. P— is at Home, but leaves in the morning. Mattie seems all right. Hope to bask in her smiles for some time to come. Fannie says she (M) is constant. I have reason so to believe. Laughed, joked and talked for an hour and then left. Studied Paley's Theology for a short time.⁽¹³⁾ Retired at 11.

January 21. Monday.

Arose at 6½. Received a letter from J.B Farnsworth, now at Woodstock, Vermont. Quite pleasant. Our additional studies are Life of Napoleon (French) and Plane Trigonometry. The latter books have not as yet come on, so we study conic Sections for awhile. Borous. Cousin Maria received a letter from Annie and allowed me to read it. Quite interesting. Bought me a violin and wrote home to father for $3.00 to pay for it. The violin is 2d hand but very good. Hope to improve now. Went down to Porters. Came to an explicit understanding with M—. She says she does not wish really to love yet nor can she show any especial partiality. She says she likes no one better than me, and will always be my dearest friend. This is satisfactorily: I don't want to fall in love, and hope I shall not do so. I am too young, besides now it is unprofitable. So M— and I are to be dear friends and not lovers. The girls sang and played some very pretty tunes and I followed suit and then left. Retired at 10. It is hardly worth while to begin a new day in this place, so I will fill it out by way of variety.

January 22. Tuesday.

Arose at 6. Band (three of us) practiced some new pieces–Vocal–"Then you'll remember me," Thous't gone from my gaze," "De Soto's Grave," "The Watchman" and "She sweetly sleeps." All very pretty. With Cousin Maria and Cis C. went to Mrs. Paynes to see a Miss Daniel's stopping there. Stayed only a few minutes. Came to my room, retired at 9½

January 23d Wednesday.

Arose at 6. Wrote a letter to Tommy Schwartzman. Cousin Maria made me a present of a plush needlebook and pocket pin case of the same material–both quite elegant. Jim Purvis came to day. Was glad to see him. Sang some fine pieces. At 10 p.m. Serenaded at Beetems and Porters. Two songs at first, one at latter. Received a "Star" containing an account of the last President's Levee. "Sterns" gave Miss Kxxg an excruciatingly flattering notice. Pronounced her next to none present. Came in at 10 and retired at 10½.

January 24th Thursday.

Arose at 5½. Short time before evening prayers, took the chairs from Johnson's room, also those in the chapel, and tied them all around outside of the gallery. They presented a very picturesque appearance. Went down to Porter's and had a good time. Played a considerable part of the evening on the piano. M—e went to hear a lecture by Consor, with Caldwell.⁽¹⁴⁾ She returned and all went away, except she and I, and I had a nice talk, concerning our friendship. She is a very nice girl. She put her arm around my neck (and I followed suit) and kissed me when I left. Very sweet. Studied until 12. Chum not in. Went to Bed. Chum went out visiting at Staymens⁽¹⁵⁾and perhaps will stay all night

January 25th Friday.

Arose at 5 and studied conic Sections. Received a letter from Innes Randolph. Has been unwell. About 9 p.m. stopped at Porters and had a short conversation with Mattie Short and very sweet. Tonight the Faculty have under consideration the plausibility of allowing the sophmores to have an exhibition. Retired at 10½.

January 26th Saturday.

Arose at 7½. Was informed by doctor Collins that the Faculty had agreed to allow an exhibition to be held on the first Friday evening in May. Very good. Called a meeting of the class at 11 a.m. to elect speakers for the occasion. The speeches are to be original. After balloting, the following we named were chosen. The number of votes received are placed opposite their names Caldwell, 27. [Marcus Lafayette] Gordon, 12, T[homas] M[iller] Griffith, 26; King, 27, [Benjamin Crispin] Lippincott, 14, [Lewis Marcus] Sencindeiver, 13, Stevenson, 26, [William T. L.] Weech, 23. A committee to attend to arranging for the occasion were nominated and chosen. They are, [John Churchill] Brooking, [Leven W.] Luckett, [Charles H. or Samuel?] Hepburn, [John Robert] Carson and [Thomas Sargent] Reese. The place of the speaker is determined by his name as they are arranged in Alphabetical order: all being of the same grade. Choir practising at the 2d Pres. Church. Took Mattie–and stayed an hour. Returned to Porter's but did not remain. Called at Mrs. Myers for Cousin Maria at 8 o'clock. Escorted her home safely and without slipping down, strange to tell. By the by, have slipped down four or five times during the past week. Quite uncommon for me to slip. Came to room; wrote a letter to J.B. Farnsworth, my old esteemed teacher. I don't mean old but former. Having nothing else, more pleasant or better to do, prepared myself and all things being ready, at 10¼ o'clock, put out the light and went to bed.

January 27th Sunday.

Arose as usual at 7½. Wrote to my old Chum, John A. Munroe. Attended church four times, or rather three and a half times. Morning and night at that borous 2d Presbyterian Church. In the afternoon at Chapel and played on Melodeon. At 6½ p.m. accompanied M—e to church (M[ethodist E[piscopal] Ch. 1st ch.) and remained until sermon began and then left. Snowed very hard to day and few fellows (ladies I mean) attended church. Returned to room, studied Paley and retired willingly at 9½ o'clock p.m.

January 28th Monday.

Arose at 5 and studied Paley more. Band practiced considerable today. Have several new pieces, very pretty which have already been mentioned. At 7 p.m. attended a meeting in behalf of the Wesleyan Methodist Cause in Ireland. Meeting was addressed by Messrs Scott of Ireland Conference, Britter of Lynn Mass, and McClintock⁽¹⁶⁾ of this place. Speeches went off very well. Subscriptions received amounted to about $125.00. I subscribed a dollar. Came to room. Retired at 11.

January 29th Tuesday.

Arose at 6½. Feeling unwell, left Tiffany's recitation room and attended no more recitations during the day. At night, accompanied Cis, Mary and Charley to see Signor Blitz. Place very much crowded. Managed to get the girls a seat. Took a seat on the sharp back of a bench. Rather sharp set. Managed to survive. Was rather bored with his tricks but liked the learned canary birds and ventriloquism very well. Left at 10.⁽¹⁷⁾ Bard serenaded at Rheems, Minnie Hall's, and Zin's Editor of the American. Expect a puff soon. Nothing more to do, retired at 11½ o'clock.

January 30th Wednesday.

Arose at 6½. Found Tiff[any]'s black boards awfully well tarred, and Tiff awful mad. Recited in Prof. Johnson's recitation room. Seats, table and all were tarred in Tiff's, and part of stove carried into the campus. Faculty are raving mad and are endeavoring to ferret out the offenders. Went down to Porter's: M— was unwell and I did not have the pleasure of seeing her. Left my sympathies. Played considerable on the piano and then vamosed. Having a sleepy head and weary eyes, retired at 10½.

January 31st Thursday.

Arose at 5 and studied Conic Sections. Received a "Star" from home. At night, Harkness, Barnes Keen, Clements, Emory⁽¹⁸⁾ and myself hired a good two horse sleigh and went to "Boiling Spring" about 4 miles from here. Took a fine supper and had a splendid time. Returned about twelve o'clock much gratified with trip.

February 1st Friday:

Arose at 7½. Band hired the same sleigh used last night, and went to Shafers School House, about 6 miles distant, and gave a concert. Got along first-rate. The room was crowded to excess. About 200 were present: a considerable number were dead-heads. Admission 12½ cts: took in $6.50 which little more than defrayed the expenses; the remainder was easily disposed of. Left the school house and went to "Boiling Spring." Tavern was shut up and ergo couldn't get any supper. Started for Carlisle where arrived at 11½ p.m. Took some oysters at Peter's Eating Saloon. Awful hungry: went very fast and very well. Returned to College and to room. After which got into bed and eased my weary bones.

P.S. Sang about the same Programme as at our last concert: except omitted "Hard Times," "Good News from Home," Kemo Kimo (Instrumental) and "Bobbin Around" and introduced "Uncle True" and solos, "Johny Sands" and "Aunt Jemimas Blister Plaster" by King and "My Mary Ann" by Harkness. Concert succeeded very well.

February 2. Saturday.

Arose at 7½. Sophmores had another meeting for the purpose of acting upon the resignation of Sencindiver as a Speaker. He however, to prevent trouble and confusion consented to serve. All well satisfied. The faculty have been trying McLaughlin, C. Hepburn, Hulsey and H. Lane for tarring Tiff's Black Boards. At 12 o'clock, all four received their cards of dismissal. About 70 students thinking that they are dismissed without sufficient evidence and that the punishment is altogether too severe for the offence, have solemnly pledged their honors not to attend recitations or any duties of College until the three former are reinstated. Lane is excluded for is very apt to and did report and they fear to have him in College. The College is now more excited than I ever saw it before. Every one of our Class except two (Sarg. Reese and Emory McClintock who are restrained by their parents) have pledged. We all expect to be sent home. I have nothing to say, but "Let it Come." I think I am fully able to bear it.

Company to tea in Dr. Collins to night. After tea, went to Maggie Maury's to choir meeting. Spent two hours borously. Went to Porters at 9. Played and sang considerable. Practised with M— the Duett entitled, "what are the wild waves saying." Beautiful piece. Kissed M— when I left. Came up at 10. Went to bed and read some time in "Rose Clark," Fanny Fern's new novel. A pretty book it is too.

February 3d Sunday.

Arose at 7½. Dr. Collins told me all the evidence they had against the boys dismissed. Don't consider it enough to doom a man to dismissal. McLaughlin confessed in toto. Lane Reported and confessed. Charles Hepburn and Hulsey did not, but they all suffered alike. College more excited today and Faculty are up in arms. Will have an awful time tomorrow. "I repeat it sir Let it Come"!

Attended church twice at 2d Presbyterian. Borous. Wrote to Innes telling him all about concert and fuss. Stopped at Mrs. P's on my return from Church. Several boys there. Mr. P. also at Home. Stayed an hour. Nothing further of importance occurring, retired at 9½ o'clock.

February 4th Monday.

Arose at 7½. College very uprorious. Several meetings of the classes. Only about 8 fellows attended college duties. Large meeting in white's⁽¹⁹⁾ room in West College. Several flaming speeches made. I was called on. Talked in a cool manner concerning things. Told I had examined the evidence thoroughly, and was firmly convinced the evidence direct was sufficient to convict Lane and McLaughlin and the complicity of the evidence was enough to convict Hepburn and Hulsey. Faculty announced that unless we returned to duties, Hulsey could not have a hearing. Thinking it for Hulsey's benefit, I advocated this principle. Most of our Class seemed to think this was the best way. Have concluded to stay from recitation until tomorrow, in order to hear what Lawyer Miller–a trustee of the college–has to say on the subject.⁽²⁰⁾ He will meet the students tomorrow at 9 o'clock a.m. in the chapel to discuss the subject, and endeavor to persuade the students to return to their respective duties. Went down to Porter's, and discussed the matter over. Practiced the duett "What are the wild waves saying.["] She almost knows it, and will be able to sing it first-rate. Came to room and retired at 10½ o'clock, after reading considerable in "Rose Clark."

February 5th Tuesday.

Arose at 7½. At 9— lawyer Miller met us in the Chapel. Judge Hepburn was present. He is father to Charley Hepburn, one of the dismissed. Hepburn came to hear the evidence: remarked that he did not think there was a particle of evidence to convict any one. Faculty were awful mad, when they heard he was present and invited him out. Miller made a soothing speech. Recommended that the fellows return immediately to their duties. After this, the Sophmores held a meeting in Gordon's room, at which I again expressed my firm belief that it was for Hulsey's benefit that we return to duties. On motion the roll was called in order to know the sense of the Class. Twelve were for staying out, nine for going in[,] a large number neutral. At 11 o'clock, in company with others, I took my books and went to Schem's recitation.⁽²¹⁾ He seemed delighted to see us. I felt I was acting honorably and rightly, so I was happy too. Most of the Class were present at 4 o'clock, in Prof. Marshall's recitation, and all were present at evening prayers.⁽²²⁾ So I think the matter is about settled on our part. As for the Faculty, I don't know what they will do. Can tell better next Saturday. The excitement has pretty much died away and I think the fellows feel satisfied that we did perfectly right in settling it in this way. So much for this Rebellion.

One of the greatest pleasures I have experienced for a long time, is the reception of a letter from Father containing a four page letter from Mother to Him. The letter is finely written and shows that Mother is fully recovered. She will return home about the 23d of this month. Next month, I expect to see her on here next month.

On the reception of the above, I sat down and wrote an eight page letter and forwarded it to mother.

One disagreeable circumstance occurred to day. Chum and I were discussing the rebellion question, and unluckily the subject waxed warm when we gave each other the lie and nearly came to blows. However I suppose it will all be smoothed over in a day or two. "Children should never let their angry passions rise" &c.

Read in "Yusef" and retired at 10 o'clock.

February 6th Wednesday:

Arose at 6½. Fellows have entirely recovered from there (re)-billious fever, and all things go on right, and just as before. The Preps took a serious notion and tarred their black-board last night. I thinks Sophmores will stop now. Stepped in to see if Mattie would attend Missionary Meeting in Chapel: but they being invited to a party at Miss Bell's, excused themselves. Sang in the Choir at Chapel: three anthems and the Missionary Hymn, "From Greenland's Icy Mountains." Choir made Sallie Porter and Lizzie Seymour life members of Parent Society. Sophmore Class made Hulsey a life member. Hulsey has made himself immortal. I gave 50 cts for myself and will give 50 more for Hulsey, if called on. Told Tiffany not to call me up in morning. Hope he will act upon my request. Read in "Yusef" and then retired at 10½ o'clock.

Horatio Collins King, 1858
Lithograph by John H. Sherwin. RG 7A
Department of Special Collections
Dickinson College Library

February 7th Thursday.

Arose at 6½. Last night, I had an abundance of agreeable dreams. The most prominent was: I was severely hurt near the 1st Presbyterian church, and from the injury received, fainted. When I came to, I was laying on the ground. I arose as best I could, and weak and very faint, I tottered and reeled along like a drunken man until I arrived in front of Porters, where I saw M— at the door. She took me by the hand and smilingly led me in and sat me down in the large arm-chair in the back-room, when from exhaustion I again fainted. She quickly procured some water and gave it me to drink, and then bathed my forehead: it was a soothing feeling, her soft hand passing over me forehead. In a short time, I felt much relieved and arose to come to college, but she would not allow me. So she sat down beside me, and we talked over our "whole course of love." It was perfectly blissful. Taking her hand in mine, I kissed her and then proposed. The answer was forming on her lips–when the iron-tongue of the mean old bell awoke me from my rapture. I do wish the bell had waited a few minutes longer: I should have liked to learn the state of her feelings.

At 6½, went to take Mattie to hear Dr. Collin's lecture on the "Democratic Tendencies of Science[.]" She was very much pleased. The lecture is said by all to have been finely written.

Returned to Porters. Told Mattie my dream, all except the proposal part. She was quite entertained by the recital. She had the tooth ache this evening. Recommended that she have it immediately drawn, as that is the only thing to alleviate the pain in a decayed tooth. Kissed her and left at 9½. Went to Peter's [Eating Saloon] with Jeff Stoek⁽²³⁾ and eat some Oysters. Came to room. Looked over some speeches. Have to speak for Johnson Saturday Week. [Nathaniel P.] Banks of Mass[achusetts] is at last after 132 ballots elected Speaker of H[ouse] of Rep[resentative]s.⁽²⁴⁾

February 8th Friday.

Arose at 6. Bought some fancy paper on which to write Valentines. Also a pretty, fancy Valentine for Mollie. Will Send a good many this year. So I prepared in time. Several of us got together and made up a dancing party for this evening. Entered an unoccupied room in West College over the Chapel, and had a first-rate time. Danced for more than hour. Learned several old-fashioned dances, "Moll Brook," "Pop Goes the Weasel," "Ashburton's Reel" &c. Adjourned to meet again tomorrow night. Retired at 10.

February 9th Saturday.

Arose at the usual hour, 7½. About 2 o'clock, took a drawing lesson at Mrs Myers. At 4, the three Porter girls called on Cousin Maria. I had the pleasure of meeting them in the Parlor. Fannie and Mattie have concluded to hereafter receive company only on Friday and Saturday nights. I think it a good move and hope they will carry it out. I certainly shall not prevent them from doing so, by my presence. Maria Stevenson with a Miss Anna Grafton, came up from Harrisburg Femal[e] College yesterday. Called on them at 7½ o'clock, and found them out. Left my card. Came to college. Got up a crowd and went to the "dancing room" in West College. Had another first-rate dance for about 1½ hours. Then went down to Stevenson's room. Sat and talked for an hour. Smoked two cigars and didn't get sick. Left at 9½. Went to Peter's and eat a plate of stewed oysters. Releived my appetite considerable. Came to room: found chum in bed. Concluded that was the best place for me. Acted on the conclusion: made preparation and then rolled in and–well I was so sleepy I didn't recollect the remainder.

February 10th Sunday.

Arose at 7½. Wrote letters to Father, Mother and John Randolph. Went to Chapel. On the way, met Maria Stevenson and Anna Grafton. Maria stopped me at the head of West College steps and introduced me to Miss Grafton. After Church, Jester⁽²⁵⁾ took Miss G. and I, Maria home. Maria expressed her regrets that she was out when I called. Both were much disappointed. Maria tried to get her brother to come after me: but he thought he would be unable to find me. Wanted to know of her, if she thought Sunday visiting was wrong. She replied that she did not: At least, if any one should come to see her on Sunday, she would receive them. "On this hint I spoke." Told her I would call down sometime in the afternoon. "Would be very happy to see me." Have considerable to talk with her about. Went to Chapel in the afternoon. Accompanied Maria from Church. Talked some time on the doorstep. Did not desire to go in. Engaged her to attend at 2d Presbyterian with me. Snively⁽²⁶⁾ took Miss Grafton. Went down at 6¼ p.m. Sat a few minutes. All went to church, and all sang in the choir: I performed: music went off very well. Returned to Mrs. Stevensons. Got Maria's ring and am now wearing it on my little finger. On leaving, Annie Grafton proffered me her shawl to wear to College. Thinking her in fun, before starting I began to remove it, when she remarked, "Keep it on, you can return it tomorrow." Will do so. Call that a tolerable strong hint. Joe Snively is rather conflummuxed becaus Maria Stevenson was with me much more than with him. Came away at 8½. Studied Paley's Theology. Then read in Yusef. After which, the usual preliminaries being gone through with, I retired to my downy (moss and hard as brickdust) couch at 10 p.m.

February 11th Monday.

Arose at 6. Read over Paley again. Frank and I went down to see Annie G. and Maria S. Played and sang. Maria played and sang, and Annie G— played and sang. The latter has a fine voice, but plays only tolerably on the Piano. She sang "I sat by the window" (or some name like that), and "I do not love thee." The latter very personally and affectingly. Left at 11 o'clock. Went down again at 3 p.m. to see them off. Bade them a pitiful "Good Bye." Was rather sorry to see them go. Have enjoyed their presence very much indeed. Received a "Star" from Home. Having nothing better to do, wrote off 12 valentines for different persons. After this magnanimous effort, I retired at 10 ½.

February 12th Tuesday.

Arose at 6½. By accident, the prayer bell did not ring until 7 o'clock. Short recitation. Cousin Maria received a letter from Father. All well. Took another drawing lesson at Mrs Myers. Stayed two hours. Not having learned "Marshall's lesson," went with Chum to hear Prof. Wilson lecture. Borous man and lecturer. Schem has given for a lesson tomorrow, translation of Carmen Saeculare, one verse in Sapphic metre, and appointed three to speak–viz. T. Griffith, W. Griffith [William Hamilton Griffith, Class of 1858], and King. I have the 5 & 6th Verses of the Hymn. We speak it in scanning style. B o r o u s.

Have finished Algebra proper and commenced the Study of Trigonometry, beginning with the Properties of Lograthims. Think this preferable to Algebra. All the Class hate Algebra. Had a visit from Tutor Arbogast. Social chat. High march winds to day. Turning rather cold; in consideration of which, I retired at 11 o'clock.

February 13th Wednesday.

Arose at 6½. Remained in the Library some time, today, pasting in labels and eating apples. Sent off valentines, to Ellen Humes, and Josephine Schock, the one at Huntsville, the other at Abingdon. Went down to Harkness. Had a little sort of gathering, in order to get Jim Purvis in the traces. He wanted to get out of the band, I believe. Had some few cakes there. Sang and played, after which returned to College: all adopting a peculiar howl, Harkness, Jack ass bray, Awl, cat mew, Purvis, dog-bark, King–chicken cluck. Made a most unearthly quartette. Retired at 10 ½.

February 14th Thursday.

Arose at 6½. Sent valentines to Mattie, Fannie, Sallie, Ida and Mollie Porter, Ellen Fleming, Ginnie Merchant, Maria Stevenson, Annie Grafton, & Ginnie Allen: more than I will ever send again. All written except Mollie's. Received two ordinary written ones and one Comic, "The Fop." Can[']t say that I see any application at all. Porter family didn't send any valentines to any one this year. Harkness, Awl and myself went to Lager beer saloon: drank several glasses of Lager beer and eat several pretzels. Came to room and having nothing else to do, retired at 11½.

February 15. Friday.

Arose at 6½. Had a dance in Phil Downs room, 1st floor, 1st Section. Kicked up much dust. Went to see Ginnie Allen, who came from Harrisburgh yesterday. Stayed a couple of hours. At 9, went to Porters, stayed an hour. Mattie and Fannie received only about four valentines apiece. Each received 16 last year. What a falling off there is. Stayed until 10. Came to room, talked with Akers⁽²⁷⁾ a couple of hours concerning a "Paper" we are about to get out and retired at 12 o'clock.

February 16 Saturday.

Arose at 7½. Having a sore finger, I did not speak for Johnson. He excused me 'till next Sat. Received a long letter from Sewel T. Milburn,⁽²⁸⁾ at Bethany. Have not heard from him before for–six months. Took a drawing lesson at Mrs. Myers. Borous again. Had a dance in No 47 - west College, Baldwin's⁽²⁹⁾ old room. Danced about 1½ hours. Good fun for–variety. At 7½, took a game of whist and several of euchre in W. Griffiths room, 3d floor, 2d section East College. After which went to Dukes['s] Room⁽³⁰⁾ at Mrs Millers. Stole a couple of pies from Aunt Del and had a nice supper. Returned to No 32, read in "Yusef" and retired at 10.

February 17. Sunday.

Wrote to Innes Randolph and Tom Schwartzman. 1st Arose at 8 o'clock. Felt a little tired and unwell–don't intend to attend church today. Eat a good many hickory nuts to cure my indisposition. Friday night, the Faculty received Hulsey and McLaughlin back to College. Like this first rate. Presume Hepburn will be received on application. The others applied. Received an especial note from the ladies of 2d Presbyterian Choir, to play for them at evening. Went down at 6½, but the church not being lit up, I didn't go in. Returned towards college and stopped to see Ginnie Allen. Gave her the ring to return to Maria Stevenson. Stayed about an hour. Came to room and studied Paley. Forgot to record yesterday that Stevenson resigned his speakership on the Sophmore Exhibition and Newman⁽³¹⁾ was elected in his stead. Think he can write as pretty a speech as any man in the Sophmore Class. Have selected my subject–"the Glory and Shame of Spain." Subject affords abundants [sic] topics for observation. Will be some what surprised if we do not squash the whole affair entirely.

P.S. Exhibition will be held in Marion Hall. Will have "Vocal Music."

February 18th Monday.

Arose at 6. Read over Paley. Wrote to Ellen Humes, a short letter. Had a dance in Downes' room again. Feeling in no humor to dance, I played the violin. Took the "Northern Planters Bride" back to Porter's. Have not had time to read it. Had a glimpse of the girls in the back room. Played some on the Piano for my own amusement. Came to Awls' room–met Harkness, all went to Purvis' room. Knocked around–sang and played and had a good time generally. Came to room–Copied off a sheet of "The Bee" and retired at 11 ½

Musical score for King's 'Noble Dickinsonia' (click for larger view)

King composed numerous tunes and lyrics, including the verses to the Dickinson College alma mater, Noble Dickinsonia

King Collection, Box 4, Folder 7
Department of Special Collections
Dickinson College Library

February 19th Tuesday.

Arose at 6½. Sent off two Copies of "The bee," a specimen of which can be seen on the last page of journal. Akers wrote one for the Sophs and Freshmen: and my copy went to the Seniors and Juniors. We don't make any pretensions to keenness. Just wanted to cut some young men. Playing the violin in Marryalts room,⁽³²⁾ just opposite, Dr. C[ollins] came down and informed me that it was study hours. Received a long letter from Sewell Milbourne. Also a Star from home. Nothing else to do, retired at 10½.

February 20th Wednesday.

Arose at 6½. Received a letter from Father as did also Uncle C[ollins]. His contained a check for $50. "The Bee" has made a crowd of fellows awful mad. Suspicion fell on me, but of course I knew nothing about it. Effinger,⁽³³⁾ Stoek (on account of Porter's) and others are raving. Hardly think they can find us out. Stepped in to see Ginnie Allen this morning and bid her Good Bye, but she was unwell, and could not leave, I came away. Stayed in Library and pasted in a number of labels. Played a few games of Euchre at Rileys room⁽³⁴⁾ at Mrs. Millers, with W. Griffith. Must have something to pass away time. Chum's National Magazine came to day. Retired at 10.

February 21st Thursday.

Arose at 6½. By request of Cushman Caldwell who had engaged her for the occasion, I took Mattie to hear the lecture before the Union Fire Co. delivered by Prof. Tiffany. Subject, "woman's rights." The lecture quire prettily written and some of it quite witty. Mattie seemed to enjoy it. Returned to Mrs. P's. Played awhile–talked with Mattie awhile and then left. Came to Awls room. Met Harkness. Went to get Jim Purvis to go serenading. Hadn't got his lesson out and wouldn't go. We started out, but having sung a couple of pieces, found it was no go, and gave it up. Retired at 11½.

February 22d Friday.

Arose at 6½. Received a Valentine from Cis Woodward, very pretty one indeed. I wish she had kept it. Also a letter from John Randolph. Also a nice valentine from Josephine Schock, at Abingdon. Johnson being quite sick, we had no recitation in Political Economy. Nearly all the Class went to hear Wilson's chemical lecture. Got a good joke out on him. Pasted up hand-bills around town, announcing a free lecture on some new chemical discoveries. The lecture was nothing more than the usual private lecture before the Senior and Junior Classes. He was awfully vexed about it. The fellows made so much fuss in his room, that he ordered all who were not members of the Senior and Junior Classes to leave the room, which was accordingly done. Went down to see Miss Ursula Cushman, at Grandmama Stevenson's. She came from Harrisburgh to day. Talked an hour with her. Cush Caldwell and I, then went down to Porters. Mattie got hold of that ring of hers on my finger. About 10, I arose to leave, without asking her for it. I picked up my hat and started when she called me back. "O! Horatio! I forgot to give you the ring." I asked her if she wanted it. "Oh no indeed.["] Came to room, and retired at 10½.

February 23d. Saturday.

Arose at 7½. Feel quite unwell to day. Severe headache and cold, from snowballing yesterday. Managed to get to the library. Feeling quite sick, went to bed at 2 o'clock. Had a burning fever from 2 o'clock until 10. Throat very sore and head aching terribly. Aunt H. sent me in some toast. Eat a little. Have eat nothing else to day. Chum has a sore throat too. It would be rather bad if both should be sick at the same time.

February 24th Sunday.

Arose at 7½. Am scarcely able to sit up. Fever has left me, but am very weak and faint. Eat very little during the day. Did not attend church. Wrote, with much exertion, six large pages, to Sewel Milbourne. Took a short walk by way of recruiting myself, with Will Harkness. Walked from end to end of Main Street. Read in the "Bride of Lammermoor." Quite interesting. Feeling still very unwell and tired. Retired at 7½. Did not attend church during the day.

February 25th Monday.

Arose at 6½. Uncle Cs room, not having a fire in it, Class recited in chapel. Layed on the bench during recitation. After breakfast, went into the parlor and by request of cousin Maria, wrote a few lines to Father, acknowledging receipt of check &c. Attended recitations at 11—: went to dinner–after which Cousin M. read to me a couple of pretty pieces in parlor. Came into room–and fever again coming on, went to bed. Felt better about 5 p.m. read in the "bride of Lammermoor." Did not get up again–took supper in my room. Several fellows came to see me and offer their sympathies, which afforded a little relief. Having nothing farther to do, went to sleep at 9½ o'clock.

February 26th Tuesday.

Arose at 9½ o'clock. Had my breakfast in the room. About 12 took four pills. Have been drinking cayenne pepper tea nearly every hour during the day. Throat is very sore. Received½ doz "Table of Postage," from Father. Feel better this evening. Couldn't stay in the house any longer, so I went down to Porter's. Had a pleasant conversation during the evening. Left at 9, came to room and retired at 9½.

February 27th Wednesday.

Arose at 8. Feel much improved. Commenced recitations again. Expect to be all right in a day or two. Attended as usual, also [Union Philosophical Society] Library. Fixed a number of books–works of "Thomas Jefferson," "Niehburs' Ancient History," "Clans of Scotland," all fine works. Stayed up until 12 o'clock, reading "Linda." Then retired.

February 28th Thursday.

Arose at 8. Today is the day set apart by the church for concert of prayer in behalf of Colleges, ergo had holiday. Attended prayer meeting. Interesting ceremony in Uncle Cs. In presence of the family, and several invited guests, among which was Frank Findlay. Mr Jones went through the ceremony of baptizing the baby. Called it simply "Hamit." I would have like a middle name. After this had a first rate dinner–done up in style. Received a letter written in French from home–Father. Crowd went down and laid in½ doz glasses of Lager. Mattie P. caught Cush Caldwell tight as could be Went down to Porter's, read for them awhile, the same pieces Cousin M. read to me. Plagued M— about kissing. Stole two or three from her. She intends to abstain from kissing entirely. Came up and retired at 10.

February 29th Friday.

Arose at 6½. Attended recitations. Tiffany excused my absences, but wants me to make up the recitations lost–15 propositions in Conic Sections. Suppose I will have to do so. Couldn't get out of it. Today is the Leap day, gained in four years. Can't observe any material difference between this and other days. Feel entirely recovered. Sore throat gone and all o.k. Received a "Star" from home. Johnson met us in the recitation room, but was too unwell to hear us. Gave an advance lesson and dismissed. Went down to Mrs. Porter's, and had a very agreeable time. Played on piano. Sallie sang the duett, "what are the wild waves saying" with me. She also sang several other pieces. Tried to get M— to kiss me, but she still adheres to her intention. Left at 10 and retired soon after.

February. No!!!

March 1 Saturday.

Arose at 8. Spoke in Chapel for Prof. J[ohnson]. Speech was "Boston Massacre" by [John] Hancock. Got my piece from Mrs. Myers, like it very well indeed. Stepped into Riely's room for an hour or so, after which, about 3 o'clock, went after Sallie P. to attend choir meeting, but as it was very stormy, she couldn't go. Stayed and talked with M—. She put on a ring on my finger with a wish, the other day, promising to tell the wish if I told her what I dreamed of the succeeding night. The dream was, that I was there, and arising to leave, I took her hand and drew her towards me to kiss her. She hesitated, drew back–but finally yielded and kissed me. Her wish was, that I might have many happy dreams and that all might come true. I told her I expected this dream to come true. Played "Euchre" in Griffith's room from 8 until 12 o'clock and then retired.

March 2d Sunday.

Arose at 8. Uncle C. intimated at the table that I didn't attend prayers this morning. Ha! Mr. Jones preached his farewell sermon in Chapel this morning. Attended church twice, once at 2d Presbyterian. Wrote a letter to Father, expressing my regrets that I was unable to answer his letter in French. Hoped I would be able to do so at some future day. Also to John Randolph. He was anxious I should tell Sallie Woodward, I did not love her, in order that he might have a chance to get her affections. Ergo, wrote Sallie W— a few lines, telling her my attentions were prompted, not by love, in the significant sense which the word is used, but by the purest and dearest friendship. Hoped she wouldn't take offense, blame me, &c., &c. Don't care whether she does or not. Matter of minor import. Guess John will have chance enough now: if he don't he certainly can't blame me for it. Oh dear! such love scrapes are most uncomfortably borous . . . Arranged the skeleton of my speech for Exhibition. Subject–The glory and shame of Spain. Began Euripides Greek Play–"Alcestis" on Friday last. Am afraid it is going to be pretty hard & borous. Played on Melodeon at 2d Presbyterian Church. Stepped into Porter's for a short time. Had a nice little talk with Mattie, but was interrupted by the appearance of Mrs. P. Mattie having the neuraliga, about 9 o'clock she politely excused herself and I left. I am fully tempted to fall in love with her again, but I think there is not much fun in it. Came to room and being in an uncomfortably sleepy mood, I felt it my duty to retire, which I did at 9½ o'clock. I get very tired Sunday's.

March 3d Monday:

Arose at 6, and looked over Paley. Dr. C. announced that as he was going to Conference we would have no more recitations to him for six weeks. Tiffany has gone, so we have about five recitations to Johnson, six to Marshall, and six to Schem. Borous. Not wishing to recite to Schem, together with S. Hepburn, and others, I plugged up the bell-room key-hole. Took the bell-ringer half hour to get it clear. Gained our point only in part. Shall try it again. Retired 10.

March 4th Tuesday:

Arose at 6½. Went down to the depot to see several friends off, Mrs Caldwell, Mr Jones & others. Forgot to say, stopped at Porter's a few minutes to inquire after Mattie's health. She was much worse. Very sorry. Manual recitation this evening was very hard–plugged up the key-hole again, with a very large spike. With the assistance of the gun-smith–Von Heilen, they succeeded in extricating the lock at 5 o'clock, prayer time. Had a time playing euchre with W. Griffith & co. Wrote a long letter to my old friend, Ellen Smith. She is attending school at Asheville, N.C. Before retiring bought couple dozen eggs and had a slight repast of eggs boiled to suit my taste. Retired at 11.

March 5th Wednesday:

Arose at 6½. Election of Speakers for Union [Philosophical Society] Exhibition came off this afternoon. I was appointed Asst. Sec. Pro Tem. The following speakers were elected, and will speak in the following order on the exhibition. Anniversary, John Donahue, 2d Marshall, 3d Eccleston, 4 Dickson,⁽³⁵⁾ 5th Jester, 6 Purvis. Election passed off very pleasantly and very satisfactorily. Donohue was unanimously elected. Society kept in about 1½ hours. Belle Lettre election came off to day also. Had some trouble. Elected a Junior instead of a Senior on exhibition and two of the Seniors elect resigned. Great excitement among them. About 6½ stepped into Porters. Sat beside Mattie on the Sofa–she yielded considerable and allowed me, without any resistance on her part to take both her hands. I enjoyed a few very pleasant words with her. I went down with the intention of staying only a few minutes; but the comic Dr. Valentine, intending to hold forth at Education Hall, by way of variety, I broached the subject, and finding her unengaged for the occasion, of course I had to request her company, which she cheerfully gave. We attended and were very much pleased. His personification of various characters was very amusing. Returned to the house at 9—: by the by, soon after I got to the hall, and we had taken our seats, Mr Long⁽³⁶⁾ came in and crowding through, posted himself on the seat next to and immediately in the rear of Mattie. She rather cut him, by not looking at him until all was over. He then posted himself round to Porter's and arrived just before we did. I could then have no private conversation with her. I consider that a measly trick and shall tell him of it, if he ever does so again. About 9¼ I arose to leave–M— followed me into the front room. I talked with her a few minutes. Told her she ought to make null and void her resolution. But all my arguments would not induce her to kiss me. Never mind, there is nothing like patience. Told her I loved her and couldn't help it, and I thought if she loved me, she would kiss me. Think it will not be long before her resolution will fall to the ground. I will be much less cordial towards her. Came to room, read 60 lines of Alcestis and retired at 11.

March 6th Thursday.

Arose at 6½. Belle Lettres still very much excited. Jack Duvall⁽³⁷⁾ got mad, and some trivial thing written by Cush Caldwell and sent to Emory McClintock, and was going to whip Cush. Called C— no gentleman &c., &c. but Cush took no notice of him. Duvall made himself disgusting to all who noticed him. I was sorry to see him make a fool of himself. Accompanied Cis, Mary and Charley Collins to Lecture delivered before Union Fire Company, by Prof. Johnson, Subject "Hiawatha." A criticism and a very able one too. A little too brief, being only about½ hour long. Benjamin Arbogast escorted Cousin Maria. I plague her a great deal about him. It teases her very much. Ha-ha. Returned to room, studied my lessons and retired at 11.

March 7th Friday.

Arose at 6½. Did nothing much during the day. At night went down to see My Mattie. By way of variety, on Thursday night, I wrote off some three pages in "Hiawatha" style, relative to the kissing resolution. This evening I gave it to her. A copy can be seen in the end of the Journal.⁽³⁸⁾ Picked up some paper, M— did likewise. She asked me to write something pretty, and she would write me something nice. She wrote the following, which I think to be original

May thy days glide sweetly along,
And may thou as happy be,
As the gay bird that carols its song,
Away in the wild wood free.

I wrote impromptu—

Love thee? ay my very soul,
Worships only thee.
Love thee? ay with love untold
Till eternity.

[Several pages are cut out of the journal at this point. The next entry is presumably for Thursday, March 13:]

Took Cis to the concert given by the juvenile singers, assisted by the directors and the two ladies. Long took Mattie. Concert let out at 9. Stopped a moment at Mr. P's to get my voluntary book. Stayed five minutes. Mattie asked me to stay longer, but I could not well. Received a nice press of her hand when I left. Rather cold in room, and no fire. So Retired at 10½.

Friday, March 14th

Arose at 6½. Attended Convention at 10. Got along very pleasantly. Accompanied Mattie home. Sat a few minutes, when Caldwell, with Miss Susy Whitehouse, one of the singers came in. Was introduced, and carried on a fine conversation, interspersed with numerous flashes of wit & nonsense. She asked me to play. Said she would "like me if I did." I played, she seemed much pleased. She then sang, "The Dearest Spot to me on Earth is Home." A most beautiful song, and most beautifully executed. Sang also Grandma's co and other songs. Came up to College, impressed with the idea, that she is a very fine girl, and a dashing coquette. Went to Convention at 2. Miss W— was there. Stayed an hour–then walked awhile with Cush Caldwell, went back to Hall and escorted Mattie home. Miss W— was there with Sallie. Had a much more agreeable and social conversation. Felt in a good humour, and kept her laughing all the time. She sang the Female Auctioneer, and other pieces. Her voice is one of the prettiest I ever heard. She gave Sallie her degaureotype. Sallie showed it to me. She had also another one, which she showed the girls, but would not let me see it. Having Mattie's likeness in my pocket, I took it out and held it before her. She entreated, and begged so sweetly for the privilege of looking at it, on promise of secrecy, I let her look at it. She seemed a little surprised and immediately conjectured how things were. She gave me a searching look, as if to read my secret. My eyes must have betrayed me. She then let me look at the degaure, which was of a gentleman friend of hers, to whom, I think, she is engaged, or at least, will be soon. About 4 o'clock, Prof. Johnson (Music Prof) sent for her to come around to the Hall to sing for the Children. I escorted her. Several pieces were executed finely by Miss Briggs, Miss W— and Mr. Frost. Escorted her back to Porter's again. About 5½ she started again, kissed all the girls–I asked the privilege. She asked secrecy of the girls, and then kissed me very nicely. She then went to the Hotel, and I came up to College. At 7 o'clock, I took Cousin Maria to the Concert given by the entire number of members of convention, with the exception of those few who "deserted the ranks," as Prof. J— said. A Programme may be seen at the end of the Journal.⁽³⁹⁾ After Concert, I escorted my company home. Then went after Miss W— to go to see the Porter family. Sent up my card, she came down, and we went over. She took a seat in chair next to Sallie, and laid her head on Sallie's bosom. The rest of us, Fannie, Mattie, Ida, Pede Marshall, Jeff. Stoek, Caldwell and myself formed a semi-circle at her feet, seated on stools–Except Mattie and I. M— took her station on one, and I, on the other side of Miss Susy. Kept her laughing for about 1½ hours. About 10½, the gentleman left. I took her hand in mine, and talked about various matters for some time. She kissed me twice more. And while she feigned sleep, I kissed her three or four times. Some how or other I worked my way into that girls heart very easily, and by way of flirting, vice-versa. But she is a desperate flirt however, but she can't come the gum-game over me. While smoothing Mattie's hair, I asked her, if she was displeased. She replied, "no indeed." I asked if she did not truly believe I loved her. She answered, she did. So all right there. At 11½, she bade a reluctant adieu. I escorted her back to the Hotel, and bade "Good Night" with promise to see her off, in the cars to morrow. Came to room, tried to write a composition, but could think of nothing but Musical Convention and Miss Susy, so retired at 12.

March 15th Saturday.

Arose at 6½. Took a walk with Carson before breakfast. Went at 10— to see the Music folks off. Exchanged cards with Miss Susy. Shall keep hers. She granted permission to me to write. Don't think, I shall. Shook her hand, and bade a sorrowful "Good Bye." She kissed her hands to her friends, so far as she could see them. M—, F— Sallie and all were at front door. I feel sorry she has gone. But I never became acquainted with a lady friend, who made any sudden impression, but that she was sure to leave me in a very short time. Farewell, my dear Friend, we may meet soon again–but oh how long?

Took Mattie to Choir meeting at 3. She misses her very, very much, as do all the Porter family. Sallie will correspond with her and perhaps I may add postscripts. She is a sweet, good girl–loving & kind; but the life she leads, makes her a little bold. I can overlook that in her.

Good Bye! Good Bye! . . . And now my book is full. I prize it.