Jan 1, 1877 Monday The new year found me at Mr. Samuel Bray's where with some young folks and I sat up till midnight. Taught school. Feb 9, 1877 Friday Last day of seventh term of school. Several of my patrons were present including all of the directors. Feb 12, 1877 Monday Left home after dinner and started for Gallatin on horseback to attend Circuit Court. My object in going was to attend the trial of Christopher Groomer, who was charged with the murder of my brother George. He had been arrested some time before and had been confined in the St. Joseph jail. and through a change of venue was tried in Daviess Co. I staid all night with E. Y. Wilder, seven miles west of Gallatin. where I arrived at 8. A. M. next day. Feb 16, 1877 The trial came off in the forenoon having been postponed till then. Groomer was acquitted through lack of evidence, but he was considered guilty by many. I had a talk with him through the grated door of the jail; and though I felt satisfied he ws the murderer of my brother, I could not help feeling pity for him in his miserable situation. He was tried for murder in the first degree and though acquitted, I felt satisfied after knowing how keenly he felt his situation. He acknowledged to me that sometimes a man would commit a deed without reflection that would blast his after life. Left for home, stopping to call on my friends, Mr. and Mrs. Harmon, at Alta Vista on the way.