Tuesday, May 27th

The morning threatening all round—a smart shower of rain fell, and afterwards the day continued warm, calm and lowering, but not more than a sprinkling of rain fell, the glass continuing high. Willy and I went in the boat to the Port. I attended an auction of Longden's and bought beef and pork for winter store. Gossiped with the Townsends and heard a confirmation of the ill news brought by Bowen yesterday—that the umpires had actually decided against my having won page 187the race. I was very angry with Fisher when he told me that it was so decided, and I do not think I have felt so much provoked for a long time—though, indeed, I ought to be well content with the honours I have already received as de facto if not de jure winner of the race. Pratt offers me one shilling and tenpence a pound for fresh butter. Robert has finished the petite rnaison and Andy has fitted in and glazed our bedroom window.