in Thoreau’s Journal:

Thermometer at 7 a. m. 6° below zero. Dr. Bartlett’s, between 6.30 and 7 a. m., was at— 13° ; Smith’s at -13° or -14°, at 6 a. m.

P. M.—Up river to Hubbard Bridge.

Thermometer +9° at 3.30 p. m. (the same when I return at five). The snow hard and dry, squeaking under the feet; excellent sleighing. A biting northwest wind compels to cover the ears. It is one of the hardest days of the year to bear.

Truly a memorable 10th of March. There is no opening yet in the main stream at Prichard’s, Hubbard Bath, or the Clamshell, or probably anywhere but at Merrick’s, and that a dozen rods long by ten feet; and it is tight and strong under the bridges. A bluebird would look as much out of place now as the 10th of January.