The Natural History of Selborne

Vast flock of ravens on the down.

Many ravens on the hill, & a flight of starlings.

Many swallows, & some bank-martins at Oakhanger-ponds.  A multitude of swallows at Benes-pond; and some few house-martins, which probably roost in the willows at the tail of that pond.  The swallows washed much; a sure sign that rain was at hand.

Began to use the spinage sown the first week in August: very fine and abundant.

Guns are heard much from Portsmouth.

Vast halo round the moon.  Began fires.

Saw pheasants at long coppice.  My well sinks much, & is very low.

Nep. Ben, & wife left us, & went to London.

Mr Churton came from Chesire.

Women make poor wages in their hop-picking.  Housed all my potatoes, & tyed-up many endives.