In reply to johncoxmysteriously:
Thanks for your comment.
This section of the article is a direct quote from the diary, and in all cases (unless the writing was illegible or obscured by beer, ketchup or dirt) the diary spoke for itself without interpretation of any kind.
In the diary there are many instances of rather odd writing, sharp Yorkshire wit, in jokes and old style grammar and word usage. The minute keeper was seemingly expected to keep a running commentary as the evening progress regardless of alcohol consumption.
On one occasion, a meeting was held below Napes Needle, where a jovial argument broke out, with all sorts of accusations being made. All dually recorded in the book. The weather on this day was very wet.
ttfn
Jamie