File:Thomas Butler Gunn Diaries- Volume 7, page 161, October 27-28, 1855.jpg

Transcription:

the drawing rooms, then descending to supper, in the basement. It was a plentiful one, with champagne accompaniment. But all assembled, spite of much joyless laughter, were very dull dogs, most of the wit of the evening consisting in wretched riddles put forth by Hitchcock, — one of which was abused, discussed, quoted, commented on and galvanized for the space of nearly two hours. [John] Mc Lenan made one or two good puns. But the rest were all very, very dreary. Speeches were made, in which the speakers bewildered themselves hopelessly, [Frank] Leslie talking cockneyisms. At 3 1/2 I left them, walked through the night and rain, thinking of much, to three blocks below the Crystal Palace, then got a car, and down townwards; feeling very ill by the way.

28. Sunday. A bleak, raw, and gusty day. Remained in-doors till 1, breakfasting within, then out. There had been a rain shower or so, the sky looked yet threatening, though sometimes sunny. To Grand Street, there making an unsuccessful call at [Matthew] Whitelaws. The wind blew fiercely, stripping the trees of their yellow leaves, and tearing the canvas awnings and banners bearing the names of political candidates. Thought intensely of Sunday afternoon at home, and Chacombe. Called in at [A.F.] Bank's awhile. Dined at Ittners, then to Bleecker Street, looking in on Sol Eyting and Will Waud. Learning that [Jesse] Haney had gone on to the Edwards', I followed, and entered the pleasant basement, where were children and women, and kindly faces. Had tea, and stayed till 9 or so, then with Haney to Bleecker Street again, and presently to my room.