Sunday 24th July 1811

Dear Diary,
I am quite exhausted.
The day has been filled with preparations for departure. I have had to ensure that Knob End is clean and tidy from top to bottom. I cannot abide returning from travels to find ones knick knacks out of place.
I hurried to the ladies at Cobbler's End and Miss Lott kindly trimmed my hair.
I had quite forgotten they also enjoyed the pleasures of a pet ferret , the lovely Merkin.
Miss Noring often wears breeches so I enquired as to whether Merkin had free rein in them.
"Good heavens no!" she exclaimed, " though I did try it once but Merkin having been used to hunting rabbits dashed up the nearest hole!" She shook her head gravely. "Never again!"
"You must venture to Knob End while I am away. Harden will be working there and you can ask to see his Dick. I am certain he will let you handle it if you inform him of your experience in these matters." I said.
I called into Thrushcock for yet another round of 'farewells' on my way home.
"Oh, I am glad you called, Wayne. We have received an exciting and unexpected epistle!" Mother twittered.
Fanny rolled her eyes heavenwards and Father stepped forward,
"No need to bother the boy with that now. He has more pressing matters. Be off and enjoy your self my boy!"
"Is it regarding balls?" I whispered to Fanny as I hugged her.
"In some respect," she answered, "but do not fret. I am sure all will be well. Go and enjoy yourself."