Some rain had fallen in the night that made it very pleasant. Went to
see about the Frankford stage, told it would be at half past eight at
the Exchange. Looked over some English papers. After waiting some time
found the Frankford stage left at 2nd street above High St. Found it did
not go till ten. Amused myself at the wharf watching some fishermen,
some of them very successful. Coming back I saw turtles some laid on
their back to keep them from running away; the snapping turtle very
savage, if once it lays hold, nothing but the knife can part it.
Took the stage at ten, arrived (at Frankford) half past eleven. Went to
Pilling's Works but could not find Mr. P. or learn anything about my
uncle. Went to other works and set off a mile further to a cotton mill,
but could not find it nor enquire of anyone. A great noise from the
locusts that are still said to come only once in 17 years. Killed two to
present to C. D. and Mr. B.
Returned and enquired at several stores but could hear nothing of him.
Then set off to see Mr. P. and on the way found his brother who keeps a
store. On asking him he seemed to hesitate and went into the house to
make further enquiry. He then told me that his uncle had been working at
his brother's mill at Hulmesburgh; that he died about three weeks ago
having scalded his leg, almost insensible towards the last. This Pilling
it appears married a daughter of Abraham Walch. I knew him at first
sight. They immediately set the table out and urged me to stop a day or
two with them. On my declining he put on another coat and accompanied
me on the way, when he disclosed to me the melancholy news of his uncle
having cut his throat, then denying it and saying somebody else had done
it.