Comments by Matthew Tomlinson of Doghouse Farm about the 5th November, recorded in his Journals (originals held in Wakefield Local Studies Library). The journals have been transcribed and will soon be published by Wakefield Historical Publications in collaboration with Wakefield Library.
5th November 1810
Nov 5th It strikes me that to-day is the anniversary of the Powder-plot; When Guy Fawks was upon the ‘eve’ of accomplishing his deep laid design: – He, I doubt not was a busy medler, A party Man – A sordid Dwarf – however, they sent him out of the world; and we have heard no more from him; the House of Lords, and Commons may now manage their matters as they think proper for any thing that Guy Fawks seems to care about them; weather they are concerns too trife’ling to attract his notice, or weather invisible laws forbid his meddleing, is what I cannot solve, or scarcely form a sentiment; I can say nothing but that he is gone and will trouble mankind (as a Man) no more. –
6th November 1836
1836 Novr 6th The last evening was the anniversary of Guy Fawks – the burn-fire-night, – as it was called in the days of my Ladhood: – Went to the door of my house about 8 OClock, the night being dark: – observed, that I did not see one fire lighted in the whole range of neibourhood; – Nor yet one gun crack, or Rocket ascend! – I shou’d not at all be surprized, that in the space of 50 years to come, if the remembrance of Guy Fawkes shou’d be lost to that Generation of Men. –