the Thoreau Log.

10 November 1818. Chelmsford, Mass.

Henry D. Thoreau’s father rents the Spaulding store (Journal, 8:65; The Days of Henry Thoreau, 11-12). He is aided by a recommendation from Rev. Ezra Ripley:

  Understanding that Mr. John Thoreau, now of Chelmsford, is going into business at that place, and is about to apply for license to retail ardent spirits, I hereby certify that I have been long acquainted with him, that he has sustained a good character, and now view him as a man of integrity, accustomed to storekeeping, and of correct morals.

(The Life of Henry David Thoreau, 33)