Mar. 16th

This morning I went [?] my usual rounds and the sat down to read "Lorna"[.] I have nearly finished it and like it very much. I am going to begin a new era of my existence by getting up early in the mornings. This is not the first time in my life that I have made similar resolves, but I never had the the[sic] same inducements. I intend to write to you in the mornings[,] so if my letters begin to get more dull + stupid, you can account for it by my being half awake. So good night to you now.

March 15th Monday

It has been very cold all day the wind still coming from the North, towards evening it shifted towards the South East. The thermometer is now 12° below zero. The sentry's voice rings out clear & sharp ["]all's well["]. I have literally done nothing today, except attend to my regular duties and put a bottom to a box of which I am endeavouring to make a desk to keep my papers and letters in. I have finished "The Country Neighbourhood"[.] I like it but it seems unsatisfactory. I do not think it has the genuine[?] [?] about it. I had loaned all the books you sent me, so I borrowed "Lorna Doone" + read a portion of that. But now I must put down in my notebook the outlines of a case of hemorrhage I have on hand. So good night.