THE DIARY OF WILLIAM SELLERS

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Nov 17^th. A united thanksgiving service was held at the church today to return thanks for the cessation of fighting.
Owing to the near approach of peace farmers are to be allowed to use one fifth of their barley for feeding purposes.
Herbert Thornton who has been Mr Burdass’s waggoner for six years died on the 20^th from influenza.
25. Mr Temple is leaving Speeton for Kelk today.Mr Carr who has been at Speeton one year only is also leaving. He is going to Filey.
20^th. Moved from the Grange to Cliff Cottage.
About half the village is or has been down with the flu.
Dec 6^th. Been to thrash at Burdass’s. Not one man would have any beer. This is the first time such a thing has occurred since I began to go out thrashing. At present there are four houses empty at Speeton. Farm men hired for the year obtained up to £60 with board & lodging.
14^th. General Election. None of the candidates held a meeting at S. before the election. A large number of women were entitled to vote under the new franchise act, but only a few availed themselves of this privilege. Less interest than usual was taken in the election. There were three candidates one of them a labour man. Christmas Eve. Weather fine & frosty, rather cold.
29^th . Weather very wet. Rain every day & night. Mild.