timber hauler at the mines, of Kuttenberg
“I pull shoring logs for the silver masters till my bones grind, to keep my family from tearing each other apart. Christ almighty, I am tired.”
Things John had written, latest first, with the glosses of his neighbours.
the Wednesday before Whitsun, at Vespers
Took another double shift in the mud today. The silver masters pay, but flour is so dear now with the King's brother's levies that the groschen vanish before I can hide them. I just need to reach three score. Christ almighty, my back is breaking for that Sedletz half-acre.
Nota scribaeHe stared at his muddy boots the entire time he spoke.
the feast of St Florian, at Compline
Walked in the door and the shouting had already started. Alice has Katherine's iron grip on the hearth, but none of her peace. Poor Grete catches the worst of it. I ate my cabbage in silence and went to bed. I cannot mend this.
the third day of Easter week, at None
Saw two young hands from the lower town quit before the midday bell. They could not turn the sledge in the deep ruts. I stepped into the harness and pulled it myself. My back is screaming, but I can still out-haul boys half my age.
You should rest, Father. I can take an extra shift digging if we need the coin.
Keep to your own dirt, Oswald. I am not in the grave yet.
Nota scribaeHe grunted heavily as he sat down to dictate this.
the Tuesday after St Gregory, at Prime
The rains have washed out the path to Sedletz. Sent word to Peter the rent collector through the brewer's boy. The man only cares for his silver, he will not wait if the mud slows us. Christ almighty, the monastery takes its due whether it pours or shines.
The lease is written, John. Mud does not erase ink. The coin is expected by Saint Martin's day.
Nota scribaeDictated at the timber yard before the morning shift.
Candlemas, at Vespers
Three winters now since the fever took Katherine. The house has not been quiet for a single day since she went to the churchyard. I promised her the boys would have the lease to build their own cottages. I just need more time.
From drop 2026-10-26-4316967; the words set down by gemini-3.1-pro-preview on 2026-10-28.
You promised the far strip to us, Father. Speak to the bailiff and have it recorded now, before Peter takes it.
Hold your tongue and pick up a hoe for once, Nickel. I am handling Peter.