_Feb. 9._ The women came up in a body to complain to Mr. Philbrick
about their pay,--a thing which has never happened before and shows
the influence of very injudicious outside talk, which has poisoned
their minds against their truest friends. The best people were among
them, and even old Grace chief spokeswoman. It is very hard, but not
to be wondered at in the poor, ignorant creatures, when people who
ought to know better are so injudicious,--to use the mildest term the
most charitable interpretation of their conduct will allow. I don't
see what is to be the end of it all, but at this rate they will soon
be spoiled for any habits of industry.
_Feb. 14._ As we went to the back steps to see Mr. Philbrick off, we
found the people collecting with eggs and peanuts for him to carry. He
told them that he could not carry the eggs to Miss Helen, but would
tell her. Then Grace begged his pardon for her bad behavior and
complaining the other day, and, collecting all the eggs which he had
refused, told C. they were for him, and sent them by Rose into the
house. She, with the other women, had complained of C. to him, and I
suppose she meant it as a peace offering.