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March 26 Had quite a little snowstorm. It looked curious
to see snow on green vegetation peas and beans are in
full blossom. It is unusual to have snow in Jaffa or
on the Plains of Sharon. One aged native said he had
never seen it before. He is said to be one hundred and
seventeen years of age. Perhaps it is so.

April 8 Have been sick for several days with chills
and fever.

9. April Sent letters to America.

In the evening saw a comet in the west. The Arabs
are superstitious and fear a comet thinking it brings
evil to the south. Last year after a comet appeared
a disease broke out among their cattle many dying so they
thought the comet brought the disease.

April 12 This morning taking a young German for a
guide and interpreter, we visited the ruins of an old
Mosque said to be one thousand years old. It was rent in
two places, supposed by an earthquake. Grass and flowers
grew on the walls. Some of which we gathered to press