W. N. P. Barbellion’s diary, 1906

I have always had one ambition to be a great naturalist. That is, I suppose, a child's fancy, and I can see my folly in hoping for such great things. Still, there…

Although it is a grand achievement to have added but one jot or tittle to the sum of human knowledge it is grander still to have added a thought. It is best for a…

Woke up this morning covered with spots, chest inflamed, and bad cough. H---- carted me down from the Attic to the Lower Bedroom, and when the Dr. came he confirmed…

Went to A---- Woods, where, strange to say, I again saw Mary. But she had a tribe of friends with her, so did not speak, but watched her from a distance through my…

On interviewing my old friend Dr. H----, found I had chickenpox. This instead of being a Diary of a Naturalist's observations will be one of infectious diseases.

[Letter from Editor of Countryside to my brother saying that if the Countryside grew he might be able to offer me a billet. "Meanwhile he will be able to get along…

Went to F---- Duckponds. Flocks of Wigeon and Teal on the water. Taking advantage of a dip in the land managed to stalk them splendidly, and for quite a long time I…

Signed my Death Warrant, i.e., my articles apprenticing me to journalism for five years. By Jove! I shall work frantically during the next five years so as to be…