Had an argument with Charlie O’Connor about Buffaloe Bills and their influence, I con, he pro. I must confess I was beaten. His points – what else can children read when developed from fairy-tale stage, Ballantyne and R.L.S. [Robert Louis Stephenson] just as bloodthirsty, at all events too expressive. I am no match for him anyway in arguing. After dinner went with Markie for a swim to Glanmire. Though a glorious day the water was freezing. Saw some fine white trout. – Mám was delighted to-day because Miss Nolan, one of her piano pupils, who had not turned up for her first lesson some time ago, and gave no explanation or sent message, came and explained everything. Worked at comp.: ‘It isn’t life that matters, it’s the courage we bring to it’ and got really fed up at the end.
