December 1
Met Archbishop Gibbons of Baltimore at the 10:30 train and drove him to Donaldsonville to the church. He comes - it is said - as "lagate a latere" from the Pope to examine into the church difficulties at Donaldsonville. He is a most agreeable man and charming companion and I was very glad to make is acquaintance.
December 7
Went with Mr. Beirne to examine new breakwaters and new levees at Orange Grove. He seemed pleased with both. Sent Nancy's and Suzy's school reports back, endorsing on them my regret and hopes for improvement.
December 15
Cold 28 degrees. Went to New Hope with Col. Sanders. All working well. Standing cane perfectly sound. Wrote Mr. Chiapella sending cheque for $139.10 for cigars, beef and fish. Wrote Richie with argument in favor of duty on sugar.
December 22
Wrote John H. Fraley, in reply, that there were no vacancies on the plantations. Mr. Chiapella came from New Hope to dinner. Mr. Beirne and Nanny and Chiapella went to New Orleans on the 4:30 pm train. Mr. Beirne says he will return Christmas Day.
December 25
Clear, bright a beautiful 46 degrees. Wrote Mr. Lynch Hamilton thanking him for a quantity of Mr. McIlhenny's preparations of Tobasco Pepper. The Sauce - the ground pepper and the Pepper Vinegar.
December 31
Wrote Alfred Buckner to drop us a line to let us know how he is getting on and when he expects to finish. Drove with Nanny in afternoon. Mr. Burns of Wheeling, W.Va. spent the night with us.
