In 1948, Kate is 69 years old and Alys is 64 years old. Eva is 39 years old and Philip is 35 years old (Alys and Dennis’ daughter and son). James is 10 years old (Eva and Teddy’s son) and Eve (Eva and Teddy’s’ daughter (my mother)) is 8 years old.
Katharine Boyd
12 Grove Road,
Northwood
Motor Car No. BHN 545
Telephone No. Northwood 1356
Identity Card: JHPE 66.6
Thursday 1st January 1948
Mild, showery.
Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room. Alys to Kingham’s, then to lunch with Kitty. I took car back (got oil at Colliver Fisher’s), made soup and had ham. Made marmalade from orange skins. Made potato soup for supper; Alys back about 6. Phil phoned at 2, and again 6.45. Soup and ham toasts. To bed 8.30. Read “The Smacksmen” by George Carter.
Friday 2nd January 1948
Very mild, dull.
With Alys to Northwood Hills. Took Vidor to shop. Lunch at Durham. Home. Wrote George Buchanan re. theatre invitation. Wrote form for CUC. license, and for EYT license. Wrote Mrs Leyel; to pillar-box with all except CUC (for Phil to sign). Put yoghurt in new strainer. Rested about 2 hours. Prepared carrots (from garden). Alys made milk soup, and we had mince as shepherds pie. Phil phoned about 8.30. (Put BHN on charge). Sydney and Gertrude phoned. “Friday Forum” – George Woodcock TUC, Geoffrey Crowther, Colm Brogan.
Saturday 3rd January 1948
Very mild. Dull.
I walked to post Eva‘s letter by airmail. Got oranges. Both in car to get Seville oranges (4/–) and Durham 12.15. Lucy and Doris met us there, all lunched. In car home. Talk, and showing Lucy the house. Tea. Took them to bus 183; (they change to 18 Harrow). Home. Phil phoned at 6.40. Alys and I did vegetables for braised beef – celery, carrots. “No Room at the Inn”, Freda Jackson as Mrs Voray, by Joan Temple.
Memo:
Points Period.
3rd Elizabeth Hale’s 21st birthday party – Phil back 5.10 a.m. Sunday.
Sunday 4th January 1948
Dullish, mild, rain in evening.
Phil in bed all day (only poached egg lunch). I wrote Doz; talked to Phil. Alys and I had a braised beef, celery; chocolate pudding. Slade took EYT for new battery, and exhaust, and back at 3. Rested and finished “The Smackmen”. Phil up and away at about 6.30 in EYT. Alys and I had scrambled eggs with cheese; and cottage cheese and ginger. Alys to bed 8 before. I at 8.25. Bullhampton ended. Defrosted Camley.
Monday 5th January 1948
Colder. Fair.
Wrote in cookery book. Alys and I to Durham at 12.30. To Carey’s, about door lock. Mrs Bearcroft washed things. I rested, and Alys rested later. Braised beef, pancakes (whey instead of milk). Talk “On Professing Medicine” by Professor L. J. Witts; play “The Conquering Hero”, Allan Monkhouse, David Markham.
Tuesday 6th January 1948
Cold. Rainy.
Alys took me to station. 11.14 train to Oxford Circus. Met Kit at Peter Robinson‘s. Lunch 12.10 at Green Lizard. Bus and Taxi to Tate Gallery. Van Gogh exhibition. Very good and comprehensive. At about 2.30 came away. Taxi to Charing Cross. Each went home. I took Colliver Fisher. Long rest. Curry and chocolate pudding. “How To Listen”. Phil phoned 8.35. “Whose Body?” finished.
Wednesday 7th January 1948
Rain, cooler.
Getting slack and coal in. Both of us to Durham 12.20 in BHN. Rested in p.m. and sewed on inner heels on shoes; and collar on green dress. Read a bit. Down at 4. “Dunkirk” play, Andrew Cruikshank. Curry, and chocolate with ginger. Kit phoned re. Van Gogh.
Thursday 8th January 1948
Cold, dullish.
I to town 11.14, to Times Bookshop and got Van Gogh pamphlet 4.6. Lunch at Selfridges’ cafeteria 3/- (sub-basement). Walked in shops (sales) but then buses to King Henry’s Road. Got padded coat. To Manchester Square at 2:50. In Wallace Collection; talk to Curator man and Mrs Beagley. To Mrs Leyel (renowned herbalist) at Culpeper House. She gave me consultation, and prescribed for me. Home at 5.30. Alys sickish and orange juice only. I had cheese omelette. Phil phoned 8.50. ‘No Wreath For Susan”, William Devlin and Marjorie Mars, Maurice Hugo.
Friday 9th January 1948
Showery, dark.
Alys and I cut up Seville oranges, and laundry. Fried liver and bacon and tomato gravy. After finishing oranges later, we walked to shops. Posted U.S. tea to Kitty; check to Ernest (Edward Boyd’s), got onions and 3lb potatoes on my ration book. Orange juice at Durham 4.30. Rested, slept till 7. Kippers and apricots (U.S.). Arthur Salter, Robert Boothby, Michael Foot – Friday Forum.
Saturday 10th January 1948
Cool. Fairish.
Wrote Max and Elsa re. Christmas card. Alys to shops early. Both to Durham 12.15 (I walked). Gardener, Cook came 1 – 4.30 (10/6). Mended sheet; Phil arrived about 3.30. Had tea. He went to bed after, and felt sick, so no supper. We had boiled eggs, apricots. Phil was sick at 9. “The Professor’s Love Story’, J. M. Barrie.
Memo:
9th Laundry?
6th Viking crashed Ruislip evening and one from Brussels.
4th Posted forms and cheque for car license BHN.
5th Wrote Doz.
7th Posted form and cheque for car license CUC.
6th Meet Kit 12 Peter Robinson‘s (for Van Gogh).
8th Mrs Leyel, 17 Manchester Square 3.30.
10th George Buchanan at Junior Carlton Club.
Sunday 11th January 1948
Rainy. Mild.
Phil better, but in bed all day. I sent petrol form to Baden (CUC), filled in. Grilled cutlets, and sprouts and mashed potatoes. Apricot mousse (or “Delicate Pudding”, Boston Cook). Rest in p.m. Wrote Eva de Baeremaecker. Phil read Lease of Layton, to Nelson; talked. He had poached egg and away at 8. We had soup, haddock. Chocolate (Bruxelles). “Barnaby Rudge” 8.30. “Escape?: Submarine K. 13” 9.30.
Monday 12th January 1948
Showery. Mild.
Alys to shops and Food Office for her milk certificate. I made marmalade (Seville). Lunch of casserole, mutton (with onions and sprouts in it) and sprouts and potatoes. Apple purée. Mrs Bearcroft in p.m. Cleaned Phil‘s room. Alys did washing (home) and also defrosted Camley in a.m. I walked to sweet shop. Posted letter to Eva de Baeremaecker, and cheque to herbalists! Rest. Read “Left Hand, Right Hand”. Made creamed haddock. Ginger and grated chocolate. “Measure for Measure” and we patched sheet.
Tuesday 13th January 1948
Showery a.m. Fair, windy, mild p.m.
Alys out to post cold stuff to Phil (express). I re-boiled all the marmalade, and got 12lb also re-boiled 5lb sweet skins. Stew (casserole), sprouts at 1 o’clock. Kunzle cakes. Mrs Bearcroft did kitchen. I walked to Bank, and sweet shop and took bus from High Street, 183 to Northwood Hills. To radio shop and got kippers and oranges (11 all). Walked home via Killick’s; paid 4/6 (exhaust). Did coal and slack. Rested. Alys made mince pies (for supper) with kippers. “Troilus and Cressida”, Chaucer. ‘Butter In A Lordly Dish”, Agatha Christie.
Wednesday 14th January 1948
Fair, some sun. Mild.
Kit phoned, and I asked her to Durham. Alys went to Doris Freer‘s to lunch, and to look at Dunlopillow mattress. To buy? Left car in park. Took padded coat to cleaners. Met Kit and both had lunch at Durham. Drove home. She rested. I took car back to park, and phoned Alys. Machined sheet, and sewed, with Kit. Alys in at 3.50 Tea. I walked back with Kit to station (Diary 1902). Soup with dumplings. Herrings.
Thursday 15th January 1948
Fair, not cold but frost early.
Kitty phoned 8.30, asked Alys to spend the night. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned sitting room. Alys and I to Durham 12.20 (walked separately). Mrs Bate there, and Mrs Machon (marmalade), Marwood’s. Posted dustsheets to Doris for the Dunlopillo. Home. Got coal in. Rested on bed. Read “Left Hand, Right Hand”, then down and made chocolate for orange sweets. Soup, soufflé, tomato, cheese, bread, eggs, milk. Alys’ mince pies. ITMA. Phil phoned 8.20. Alys at Kitty’s. Cut out green sleeves. Sewed. Oranges. To bed 10.30, bath (Gaitskell petrol).
Friday 16th January 1948
Fair.
Various chores. To Durham at 12.30. Alys seated there! We walked home. Talked. I had rest. Alys in car to buy food. I in car at 5 to get more oranges if possible: and potatoes (on my ration book) – no potatoes left. We had Welsh rarebit with two eggs grilled at 7 and the rest of the mince pies. Phil came at 8.40. He had poached egg at 9.15, and glass of orange juice. 6 small oranges! “The Very Devil”, story by Hugh Clifford. Python swallowing a cat.
Saturday 17th January 1948
Rain, mild.
Phil in bed all day. Only down to phone Miss Craddock (his secretary). Smart talked too! I to Sherman’s with prescription; and got pencil leads, and to Boots’, and got cauliflower. Alys cooked guinea fowl 1.15 and Alys and I had Irish stew (tin, Donald Cook). Rest. Read “The Semi Attached Couple”, Eden. Tea. Talked to Phil re. Ernest and Edward Boyd. Alys made omelettes (bacon). Yoghurt cheese. Nurse Cavell play (Gladys Cooper).
Memo:
Mrs Smith, boy at Merchant Taylor’s, and 2 sons killed.
(Mrs Tait, her handsome friend).
12th Letter to Eva de Baeremaecker.
Sunday 18th January 1948
Fine. Sunny. Windy. Cool.
Slade brought EYT back, 2 new tires on. Phil in bed till 11 or so, then out to hut, with hot bottles. He had dinner with us in kitchen (dressing gown). Grilled cutlets and tomatoes and cauliflower. Stewed apples. Talked about Herbalist treatment. Rest. Tea in Phil‘s bedroom. Phil wrote to Appleby, with draft of lease of Layton. Tomato soup, cold guinea fowl and U.S bacon (queer flavour?). Phil away an EYT at 8.10. “Barnaby Rudge”. Scrapbook 1927.
Monday 19th January 1948
Very fine. Cold.
I made marmalade suet pudding. Alys phoned Kit. Alys did lots of washing (also laundry, but they didn’t call). Mutton casserole and potato; pudding. I walked to Sherman‘s, and also other shops – sweets. Alys for little walk later. Sewed green frock. Kippers, apple purée.
Tuesday 20th January 1948
Cold frost, then rain. Some sun.
Hawkins fixed gas heater in bathroom. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned James‘ room. Alys to post eiderdown to Phil. I walked to Durham and lunch 12.15. Alys came in car 12.45. Window cleaner came 5/6. Wrote R.S.P.C.A. re. quarantine. Mended Dutch shopping bag. Corned beef roll U.S.A. and pancakes. To bed 8.40. Read. “A Single Taper”, 30 minute play by R.C. Scriven.
Wednesday 21st January 1948
Damp, cold. Rain in evening.
Alys to Liverpool Street with Killick at 9. She returned at 1.30 with James (from Hamburg via Hook.) Mattress came from Doris (Dunlopillo, Alys paid £11.0.0). Casserole, mutton and tinned potatoes; marmalade pudding. I walked to Bank and Kingham’s. James in bed in p.m. but up to tea – spillikins with him. Poached eggs and coffee cream, with new cream. Ideal milk and white of egg. “Hangman’s Wharf”, 9.30.
22nd Good speech by Bevin on Western European Union.
Thursday 22nd January 1948
Very fine. Sunny. Cold wind.
Alys and James to get his shoes (Clark’s walking). Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room. I sewed green frock. All to lunch at Durham. Alys packing James‘s trunk. I darning his grey pullover. He taught Alys new patience game. “Children’s Hour” and “Dick Barton”. Stewed mutton with barley and potatoes. Trifle, with cream from evaporated milk, and white of egg.
Friday 23rd January 1948
Fair, cold.
Killick man at 9, and Alys and James off in car to Charing Cross (10.25 to Etchingham). I tidied up rooms a bit. Sewed green frock. Stew and trifle at 12.30. Sewed most of p.m. Alys back 3.45 or so. I walked to sweet shop (none) and ordered my 3lb potatoes; (ration for week). Lay on sofa and dozed. Alys had bought iron, and lots of tinned soups at Fortnum’s. Soup, and nice “spread” from Soho on toast, and marmalade pudding. “Focus On The Housewife”.
Saturday 24th January 1948
Showery, milder.
Mrs Picking came to measure and fit the covers (Chesterfield). I to Oxford Circus; Lewis and Evans and walked down Bond Street to 23 St James’ Square. Junior Carlton Club Ladies Annex. Very good lunch with George Buchanan; we walked to Wyndham‘s Theatre. Stalls. “You Never Can Tell” Shaw (Harcourt Williams, the waiter). Walked to Trafalgar Square. Rooks all round. Very noisy!!! Tube home. Phil there. Spaghetti cheese and egg – apricots and cream (mock). Lord Woolton speech. “Acacia Avenue”, Mabel and Denis Constanduros.
Memo:
James arrives from Hamburg 21st .
20th Letter to R.S.P.C.A. re. quarantine.
23rd James to school. 10.25 Charing Cross – Etchingham.
24th Mrs Picking about covers.
24th George Buchanan. Coat ready at cleaners.
23rd St James’ Square Junior Carlton Club, Ladies Annex.
France devalues franc – 864 to £1.
Sunday 25th January 1948
Fine, not very cold.
Phil in bed to breakfast. Alys doing curry and chocolate pudding and seakale. I housework. Dinner at 1. Phil on garden seat 10 minutes, but sun went in. Washed up; rested, and little walk (oh Kimmy!) round. Phil rested on bed and tea there. Glasgow v. London Quiz. Bacon and eggs and spaghetti; apricots, oranges. Phil away at 10. “Barnaby Rudge”, Wreck Dunedin “True Stories of British Courage – Kaokoveld Rescue”.
Monday 26th January 1948
Rain all a.m. Fair p.m.
Phoned Kitty. Alys did washing, Phil’s shirts. I looked out investments. Curry for lunch, warmed up and braised celery, fried potatoes. To Boots’ and also International and fish. Sewed, darned. We listened to “The Secret Life”, Granville-Barker. 3rd program. Kippers for supper. “The Thracian Horses”, Maurice J. Valency. Sebastian Shaw as Herakles.
Tuesday 27th January 1948
Mild, fair.
Alys and I left car in park by Council and 10.30 train to Baker Street. She by Metropolitan line and bus to Ernest, and I tube to Holborn, walked to 30 Raymond Buildings. Interview with Ernest 11.30 till 1. Tube, Leicester Square, lunch Café de Paris. “Anna Karenina”, Ralph Richardson, Vivian Leigh. 6/-balcony seats. Lemonade and cakes at Wardour Restaurant. Bought rollmops. Bus 13 Baker Street. Home about 7.30. Soup, rollmops. To bed. (Mrs Bearcroft had been in p.m.). Phil rang up at 8.45 pm.
Wednesday 28th January 1948
Lovely day. Sun and cold wind.
Alys and I to Northwood Hills. I got my Vidor radio. We launched at Durham. Bought azalea for 10/– and took it to Mr Longbotham (who very sick). Home. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen. I dug up carrots, and cut kohlrabi leaves. Two playlets, “No Clue At The Zoo” and “Nathaniel And The Grinning Dogs”. Ate scones, (which I made on Monday). Haddock, soup. “The Existence of God” discussed by Bertrand Russell and Frederick Copleston S.J.
Gandhi shot dead 30th.
Thursday 29th January 1948
Heavy showers, bright intervals.
Alys walked to bus, and took 183 to Golders Green, to see Sissie. I wrote George about £4 for boxing tickets! Curry and kohlrabi; plums (September bottled) and evaporated milk cream. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned Alys’ room in a.m. In BHN to park the car (key at Durham). Got grapefruit (6d) kippers, yoghurt. Walked home. Made lemon soufflé. Alys back after tea, Durham with Mrs Cheston. Brought fur coat from Mrs Page (disappointing). Kippers and lemon soufflé. Phil phoned 8.45. Maurice Webb spoke. “The Puppet Master” by Emery Bonett. Esmé Percy, Rita Vale. “Rocks and Birds of Jan Mayen”.
Friday 30th January 1948
Fair, mild, showery.
Alys took me to catch 11 train; to Waterloo. 12.12 to Cobham. Ethel Miles met me. Walked to “Le Zoute”. Josephine and Doreen. Lunch fishcakes, French beans. Away at 3a15. To Knightsbridge for patterns for Eva at Harrods. Home by 5.30. Rest. Kippers and lemon soufflé. “20 Questions”.
Saturday 31st January 1948
Mild. Fair.
Went to town by 10,15 train and Selfridge’s, and Marshall’s and Evans’ and Lewis’ for patterns for Eva. Poor success. Lunch at Woodstock Restaurant. On to Sagne’s for coffee and cakes. To Post Office to send airmail to Eva. Home. Rested. Phil came about 3.30. Grapefruit, turbot and sauce, beetroot with sauce. Yoghurt cheese. Play “Dark Summer”.
Memo:
26th Letter to Eva (airmail) with wool samples.
27th 11.30 Ernest Miles, 6 Raymond Buildings.
30th Ethel Miles and Josephine. At Cobham. 12.12 Waterloo.
28th Post War Certificates to E.V.M. (Ernest Vernor Miles, solicitor). Max Townley.
31st Started herbal treatment at 7.30 p.m.
31st Patterns to Eva, airmail.
4th Oranges off ration!
Sunday 1st February 1948
Fine a.m. Very mild. Dull p.m.
Phil down to breakfast in dressing gown. I filled coals, and talked to Phil, about Ernest Vernor Miles‘ letter, mortgage and new Prefect car. Alys roasted beef (round) and artichokes; and stuffing and orange soufflé. Rested in p.m. Listened cinema excerpts. Phil stayed in bed till away at 6. I posted check to Blennerhasset £15.15.0. “Ideas And Beliefs Of The Victorians”, Bertram Russell, David Cecil, G. M. Trevelyan, Chris Dawson. Egg and fish (Alys) supper. Plums and cream.
Monday 2nd February 1948
Very mild, fine. Gale. Dull p.m. and shower.
Alys did washing and I cleaned silver; defrosted the “Fridge”. Dumplings in soup (of vegetables stew) and sprouts and leeks. Grated chocolate and dehydrated milk and egg white. In p.m., we went to loft and unpacked silver box and crates of china and glass and silver, till 4.45. Scones. Toasted. Out for little walks. Rest. Cheese omelette. “The Four Feathers” at 8 – 8.30. “Monday At Eight”, “The Pleasure Garden”, Beatrice Mayor..
Tuesday 3rd February 1948
Rainy, mild.
Did some altering to N.F.S. (National Fire Service?) coat, and shoes, red laces. Walked to lunch at Durham at one. Alys put BHN on charge. In p.m., Alys and I in loft again to divide glass in china. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned dining room. Ironed nightgown. Rest, reading “Delta Wedding”. To be concluded “Strange Journey”. Macaroni and cheese with artichokes. “A Nice Cup Of Tea”, Anthony Gilbert. Good. 30 minutes thriller.
Wednesday 4th February 1948
Fine mostly.
I early to Kingham’s. Alys washed James‘ pullover; we did up parcel for Eva (potted meats, coat and frock) and posted it at 12.15. Alys to Durham, lunch. I home (left car), had cold beef and grapefruit. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned hall and kitchen. I lit Cozy stove, sewed shoe lace on and buttons on coat. Alys back at about 6. Kippers. Queen of puddings. “Certain Alibi”, Aileen Burke (good), 30 minutes. “Hangman’s Wharf” 9.30. (Phil phoned re. new car 1.30).
6th Letter from Eva saying returning from Hamburg about 26th February!
Thursday 5th February 1948
Showery.
Mrs Bearcroft cleaned sitting room. Alys and I in loft, put all Layton glass together, and sorted china and labeled crates. BHN lunch at Durham at 1. Shops. Home. I wrote Amy Steel re. 2 packages food. Car to the Longbotham’s. To see Mr Longbotham in bed. Tea downstairs with “Dolly” and Mrs Cheston. Soupe à l’oignon and Queen of pudding. Doz phoned from Broadway. Play “Penny” by Joan Wall. Phil phoned re. new car at 8.45.
Friday 6th February 1948
Fine. 2 heavy showers. Thunder.
Alys and I walked to station and got 11.14 train to Baker Street. Bus to Bond Street. Lunch at Woodstock Restaurant. Then to Marshall’s and bought 6 yards Eva‘s choice; packed it and posted it. Tube to Bethnel Green. Walked to London Chest Hospital. Saw Phil, and his rooms (as R.M.O. (Resident Medical Officer)) and Miss Craddock, his secretary. Alys drove EYT home. Called in on Kitty and Barbara on way 4.35. Onion soup and cold meats, and pancakes. “Much-Binding-In-The-Marsh” and “20 Questions”.
Saturday 7th February 1948
Mild. Fair.
Alys cooking mince; chocolate (Bruxelles) and I squeezed 12 oranges for Elsa’s orange jelly. Put U.S. tins away. We had kippers at 1.25 and Alys made sweet jam omelette after. Odd jobs in kitchen. Phil came in new Prefect car. Ford 10, at 3.20. I rested and slept. Alys drove car a little way. Mince and macaroni, and fried potatoes. Killick came re. spraying car (£35). Phil talked about his work till about 10.30. All to bed.
Memo:
4th Alys to Foakes.
5th To tea at Longbotham’s. Wrote Amy Steel.
4th Two food parcels arrive from Amy Steel, C.A.R.E. England.
“Co-Operative American Remittances to Europe (England)”.
Sunday 8th February 1948
Very mild. Dull.
We measured cars and garage in p.m. Phil stayed in bed all a.m., but wrote later. Alys cooked half shoulder of lamb and seakale with mint sauce. We had orange jelly (Elsa’s way). I walked to Post Office. Cut up grapefruit. Phil away. Cut up grapefruit. Grapefruit and scrambled eggs and Bruxelles chocolate. Phil away an EYT at 8 o’clock. “Barnaby Rudge”, 70 days shipwrecked men from “Two Survived” by Kevin McGarry.
Monday 9th February 1948
Fine. Windy.
Alys did washing. I did coal (coke arrived) and freeing daffodil bulbs in garden. Alys to shops in car, and had only orange juice. I had liver pâté and grapefruit at home; and walk to Boots’ for book. Both rested, and “The Blind Goddess” by Patrick Hastings. Very good, Basil Radford. Haddock and semolina and marmalade pudding. “The Four Feathers” at 8. “The ‘Electra’ of Euripides” 9.15 Maria Becker.
Tuesday 10th February 1948
Fair, very mild.
Mrs Bearcroft in p.m. I went by 10.2 to Baker Street. To Herbalists for Mrs Leyel’s book 4/6. To Foakes, hair done by Margaret. 7/6. To lunch at Danish Restaurant 2/8 and 6d tip. To Foyle’s, then to Handy’s shop. Back to Foyle’s and sold 4 books for 2/9 and bought Vail d’Alvery 12/6. Home by 4.15. Rest. Slept. Seakale soup and haddock. Moved furniture in box-room. “Sweet Death” by Christianna Brand. Murder and Nurse Kelly.
Wednesday 11th February 1948
Fair. Mild.
I made grapefruit marmalade with apple and syrup. Alys to lunch at Durham. I had mince, kohlrabi, and semolina pudding. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen and hall. I listened “Love and Love Again”, by Paul Arthur (fair). Alys back at 6. I made chocolate covers to marmalade residue. Fried eggs and bacon, semolina iced. “Hangman’s Wharf” 9.30, “Nurse Henrietta” 9.45 (Maria Becker, Zürich).
Thursday 12th February 1948
Perfect day.
Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room. Alys and I did lots of odd jobs. To High Street shops at 12 and to Durham 12.15. I to Boots’ and walked home with Mrs Mitchell). Alys to Bank. Tidying in my room. Shoes to get mildew off. Rest, slept 5 – 6. Wrote Ernest Miles re. investments. Fresh herrings, grilled; ginger. Patched Burberry. ITMA. “The Black Cap Has To Wait” by H. R. Jeans. Grapefruit in bed.
Friday 13th February 1948
Dull. Mild. Damp.
Alys and I to High Street china shop, and for glass to Phiz‘s (Hablot Knight Browne – An illustrator for Charles Dickens’ and friend and professional peer of Fred Barnard’s (Poz and Doz’s father)) picture. Northwood Hills for cake and fish. Home, and out again to lunch at Durham. Home. Cut sandwiches. At 3.45, Alys in BHN to fetch Mrs Cheston and Miss Longbotham for tea with us. They had axi home 5.30. Alys had no supper; I ate sandwiches and grapefruit. “20 Questions” and Phil phoned.
Saturday 14th February 1948
Fair a.m. Drizzle p.m. Mild.
Alys ironed car seat covers (Lincoln-Zephyr). I did mince. She to shops. We had kippers, and an “Apple Cracknel” I made from “Listener”. Gardener came! But only 2 – 4.20 as rained. I to Post Office and oranges. Rested. “Obtuse-Angled Triangle” 4.20 by Mark Hollis. Phil at 6:15, rheumatic (had been at England vs. Wales at Twickenham with Elizabeth Hale). Lovely milk soup. Haddock, yoghurt cheese. “Cut For Partners” by Lionel Brown, Henry Kendall (perfect lover) and Rita Vale (secretary).
Memo:
10th Foakes 11 a.m.
13th Mrs Cheston and Miss Longbotham to tea.
11th Wrote Mrs Leyel (herbalist), and Laundry and Ella.
Éamon de Valera beaten by 8 votes. John A. Costello in.
Sunday 15th February 1948
Very mild. Sunny till 11.30 then dull.
Phil in hut in dressing garden. I made custard. Mince in cockleshells; chicory with gravy. I walked to Post Office with letters. Tea in Phil‘s bedroom. Quiz. Read Lease of Layton and I witnessed Phil‘s signature. Grapefruit, boiled eggs; haddock on toast. Phil away at 8:20. “Barnaby Rudge”, “Scrapbook for 1933”.
Monday 16th February 1948
Much colder. Fair.
Alys washed Phil‘s pyjamas and shirt. Coal came. I to Post Office; wire to Blain re. fowl: lettercard Biro. Warmed up mince in shells, and tomatoes. Apple and custard and egg white. Rest; slept. Re-boiled marmalade of December 30th (slight mould). Mushroom soup, (Alys had kipper). I had pâté and cress and yoghurt cheese. “Four Feathers” at 8. “The Family Reunion”, T. S. Eliot (Phil to “The Relapse” with Lisa).
Tuesday 17th February 1948
Fair, cold.
Alys to Dr Warner (but no good as had breakfast). In BHN from station at 9.45 to Northwood Hills; Post Office and oranges then to Batchworth Heath (for charging battery). Made a carrot pudding (with breadcrumbs), onion and milk. On toast and carrot pudding. Mrs Bearcroft ironed and cleaned Phil’s room. I ironed skirts. Alys back at 5.15 (had lunch with Doris, Frith Street). Boiled eggs in sitting room at 7 and apple. “To Be Continued”, “Detection Club – Bubble, Bubble, Toil and Trouble”, E. C. R. Lorac.
Wednesday 18th February 1948
(no weather).
Alys to see Mr Longbotham, in bed. Various dressmaking, skirts and black coat. Both of us to Durham (in BHN). Sent cheque for Biro. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen. I doing Alys’ fur coat (that Mrs Page did wrongly). 2 Irish plays, “Light Falling” by Teresa Deevey, and “The Old Man”, Diarmuid Kelly. Alys upstairs. Chicken clear soup; meat pie (Kingham’s), baked apples. Wilfred Pickles at Roehampton Hospital!! “Hangman’s Wharf”.
Doctors vote against Health Bill by overwhelming numbers.
Thursday 19th February 1948
Some snow. Very cold. Sun.
Mrs Bearcroft cleaned Alys’ room. I ironed coat and skirts and lining of Alys’ coat. Alys tidying room, and in loft. Tinned beef steak and kidney pie, and kohlrabi greens. Baked apple. Alys to shops for fish. I made cheese scones (“squones”) with whey. Sewed Alys’ coat lining (fur coat), Walked to Post Office. Cod steaks (oven fried) and chip potatoes (Smith’s), jelly (lemon crystals with egg white). ITMA, “Trial of William Penn”, Leslie Baily 1670.
Friday 20th February 1948
Fine. Some very cold snow.
Made gathers in black coat. Alys to shops in car. I took chairs to loft and got 2 down. Liver and onions in sitting room and jelly. Walked to get fish and binding (wore fur coat). Mrs Bearcroft cleaned James‘ room and kitchen stove. Alys trying to free her frozen wash basin pipe. Pea soup and kippers. “20 Questions”. Peter Kane beaten by Guido Ferracin, Bantom European Championships. Alys felt coldy.
Saturday 21st February 1948
Snowy. Very cold, some sun.
Cleared snow away. Alys up but still cold, headache and pains, so on bed at 12. I to buy fish. Had cold bacon (U.S.A.) and toast at 1. Alys had tinned orange juice only all day (except breakfast). Phoned Phil. He came at 4.15. Put petrol in cans and got more at Colliver Fisher. He had tea. I cooked plaice in milk, and mashed potatoes and chicken clear soup (Rici), Danish. Dalton’s political broadcast. “Mid Channel”, Pinero. Alys in bed all p.m. and evening.
Memo:
17th Alys to Dr Warner for x-ray and lunch with Doris.
16th Wrote W.H. Smith, Aldeburgh for Biro (38/6).
19th or 20th Dougal (Berry’s Scottish Terrier) shipped over and to Hackforth Kennels – quarantine.
Sunday 22nd February 1948
Grey. Slight slow thaw. Alys’ basin still blocked.
Alys better and up to breakfast. Phil up at dinner time. I cleared snow from paths and car (BHN), and got coal from snow. Roast mutton (very good joint for 2 weeks’ ration), sprouts, celery, potatoes. Chocolate mousse. Rest. Phil wrote Alonzo re. C.A.R.E. parcel and D. Brown, and Morlock (re. Country Gentleman‘s Association). Tea in sitting room. Grapefruit, spaghetti, cold bacon (U.S.A.). Phil away in EYT at 8.5 (pushed BHN into garage). “Barnaby Rudge”. “Courier from Warsaw”. Jan Nowak.
Monday 23rd February 1948
Grey. Very slow thaw.
Alys busy all day changing her things from drawers, as Eva writes arriving on Friday. I to shops to post Phil‘s letter “express” and airmail to Alonzo Hunter. Fish soup and mutton and cheese. To shops in p.m. for fish. Got frying pan 4/5½. Killick came for car covers. Kippers in sitting room. “Four Feathers”, 8. “South Sea Bubble”, 9.15. “Raymond Lovell” Nova Pilbeam from play “Away From It All”, Val Gielgud. Phoned Ella re. rooms, at 6.10.
Tuesday 24th February 1948
Fine. Snow. Frost in evening.
Alys up, and off at 8.45 without breakfast, to be x-rayed by Dr Warner. I re-boiled marmalade and made some new of grapefruit and lemon. Cold bacon (U.S.A.) at 1. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned Phil‘s room. Alys home 2.30. I to shops. Ordered 60lb oranges! Wrote Ella. Soup and fish cakes (Durham, 3 at 6d each). In sitting room “The Green Jug”. Alys phoned Kitty. “Where Do We Go From Here?”, Dorothy L. Sayers. Hinduism.
Wednesday 25th February 1948
Fine, cold.
Both of us to Scroggs. Home. Then both to Durham. Met Kitty there 12.15. After lunch, gave Kingham’s orders and saw Kitty off. Home. Looked out shelf for Alys’ cupboard. Mrs Bearcroft clean kitchen. Mrs. Newman called. Lined drawers. Made beds (Alys). Boiled eggs and bacon. Cheese. Alys wrote Gwen.
Czecho-Slovakia forced to go Communist.
Thursday 26th February 1948
Fine, cold.
Mrs Bearcroft cleaned bedroom. Alys to Durham 12.15, I at 1 (in car). Both of us cooking apples, and mince and onions, and custard and jelly, all day. I in car to Northwood Hills for cake and for lighter battery. Boiled eggs and cheese with bap. “Crime Gentleman, Please!”, 9.50.
Friday 27th February 1948
Fair. About 33℉.
Berry‘s arriving at 8.55. Eva phoned at 9.20. Alys with Killick to Liverpool Street Station. Eva and Eve and Alys back at 11.45. We had mince and mashed potatoes and apples and custard. Teddy came at 1.30. I to post books to Ella and letter. To Bank; Kingham’s. Home and rested. Tea. Talk. Eve had a bath. Fishcakes and shepherds pie. Sissie phoned. All to bed 9.10. Both Cozy stoves going all night, and Domestic.
Saturday 28th February 1948
Fine. Mild.
Alys got breakfast. Teddy washed up, and got coals and coke. Alys with Eva and Eve to Northwood Hills Food Office, re. rations. They to lunch Durham at 12.15. Teddy and I at 1 o’clock. Miss Kipping brought covers. Phil came at 3.30. Marion Berry to tea. Killick brought Prefect back (sprayed). Eve on cycle. I rested. Alys cooked fowl (Layton), Teddy helped. “The Title”, Arnold Bennett.
Memo:
24th Alys to Dr Warner 9?
27th Berry’s arrive from Hamburg.
24th ordered oranges 60lb for £2.0.0.
Teddy posted to Headquarters at Bicester, after 19 days’ leave.
Sunday 29th February 1948
Very warm and fair.
Sewed soles of my coat stuff, onto Eve’s carpet slippers; she in my room too. Phil in bed (breakfast in dressing-gown) till 12.30. In garden. Alys cooked ½ leg lamb, mint sauce, cauliflower. Queen of puddings. Jelly mousse. Rest in p.m. Teddy washed up all meals. I made chocolate mousse for supper. Alys and Eva cooked sausage and scrambled eggs and mashed potato. Phil away in JLN (Prefect) at 8.20. “Barnaby Rudge”. Rene phoned. “Roman Britain”.
Monday 1st March 1948
Fine, mild.
Teddy to lunch with his father and Air Ministry. We defrosted Fridge. Alys washed Phil‘s flannels. Eva washed. Alys, Eva, Eve and I lunched at Durham. Eve and I walked home. Alys and Eva to Eastcote – Ruislip, Food Office. Read The Story of Ferdinand to Eve in garden. Eva made curry for supper. “The Four Feathers”, 8. “Topaze”, Marcel Pagnol, Benn Levy’s English version. Edward Chapman, Phyllis Neilson-Terry, Howard Marion-Crawford.
Tuesday 2nd March 1948
Cold. Dull.
To Sissie’s, leaving at 11.2 from Northwood and getting there about 12. Lunch 1.20. Mrs Yug brought in hake (baked). Semolina pudding and jam. I at 3 to town by buses. Got psyllium seeds. To Rialto, 4.10. Saw “An Ideal Husband”, Oscar Wilde (Michael Wilding as Lord Goring). Phoned home 7.30. Supper at the Hamburger Restaurant and home at 9.20. “Waxworks Mystery”, Charles Hatton.
Wednesday 3rd March 1948
Cold. Dullish. Fog.
Teddy dug in garden. Got kohlrabi greens from garden. Alys to shops. Eva up before 7 and took Eve to station and Rickmansworth for school (Marion Berry’s school). Stew and greens and potatoes and U.S. apricots. Teddy drove us to cinema (Rex) to see “Vice Versa” and cowboy film (Eve back to lunch and with us). Teddy left BHN in park. Tea at 5. Teddy to supper with Mabel (Heath Street). Alys, Eva and I had kippers. “Brief Encounter”. Talk and story by Algernon Blackwood.
Thursday 4th March 1948
Fair. Not so cold.
Eva and Teddy off by 8.1 train to go to Bicester. Alys took Eve to station for 8.18 and school. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my bedroom. Alys and I to Durham lunch 12.50. Home and short rest. Then to get fireguard for Eve’s room, in High Street. Back and more rest, and Eve back from school about 4.45 – 5. Sewed, and “crocodile man”. Alys put Eve to bed. Stew and potatoes and greens; apricots and whipped cream (evaporated). “Crime, Gentleman Please”, 9.30. Phoned Kitty.
Friday 5th March 1948
Cold, dull, raw.
Alys up before 7 and took Eve to the station for 8.18. Alys made gingerbread. I to Durham (Alys not, as cake not done in time). Mrs Bearcroft to clean Eve‘s room. I made lemon soufflé. Rest. Tea. Teddy and Eva came home at 2.15. Eva to bed with heavy cold. Alys made spaghetti and Teddy grated the cheese. Phil phoned, he has cold. George phoned that Kitty has feverish cold.
Saturday 6th March 1948
Mild and fine.
Eve and I drew portraits of each other. Eve and I to Durham 12.30. Alys, Teddy and Phil at 1. Eva in bed all day. Eve rested on floor in my room and drew till 3.45. Gardener came 2 – 6, and did front lawn levelling. Alys made oeufs au jus, Teddy did potatoes. I turned lemon soufflé failure into cake. “Without Witness”, Anthony Armstrong. Good.
Memo:
1st Apply for petrol renewal BHN – sent application.
4th Might hear from Mr Beagley.
2nd To Sissie’s to lunch.
4th Teddy and Eva to Bicester for 1 night.
9th 74℉ in London – highest for this date on record.
Increased ½ pint milk to 2½ pints milk next week.
Sunday 7th March 1948
Fair. Mild.
Alys‘ 2 bottles leaked in her bed, and very bad night. Phil to meals in dressing- gown all day – sore tongue (penicillin). Phoned Kitty. Eva up at about 12.30. Alys boiled chicken, parsley sauce, cabbage, potatoes. Camden greengages, mock cream. Eve and I for walk to railway bridges. Teddy turfing. Slept 3.30 – 4. After tea, Phil dressed and away at 5.15; Alys went with him, and back by train at 7.30. Eva cooked cauliflower au gratin. To bed 8.30. “Barnaby Rudge”.
Monday 8th March 1948
Fair, mild.
Eva got Eve’s breakfast. Alys took her to school (I forgot porridge!). Eva and Teddy to Wembley, but no agent there. Alys and I lunch at Durham and to Pinner to get oil-cloth at Woolworth’s. Eva and Teddy lunched at Northwood Hills (Broadway). Teddy did sodding. Radio man brought Cossor back. Eve back late; wrong bus. Alys listened to “Without Witness”, 4.15. Beef-steak braised, noodles, grapefruit. “Four Feathers”, “The Jew of Malta”, Christopher Marlowe.
Tuesday 9th March 1948
Very warm and fine. 74℉ in London.
Teddy and Eva away early to Aylesbury, and look at house at Quainton too. Alys and I had soup, and bacon (tinned) and apricots in hut. Did bank account. Rested. Read papers. Alys posted Phil‘s pyjamas, I met Eve at Kewferry Road. Teddy and Eve back at 4. (Mrs Bearcroft in p.m., ironed). Teddy and Eva to the Blair’s (Loudwater) to drinks and supper. Alys made cheese omelette. Grapefruit.
Wednesday 10th March 1948
Warm. Fine. 72℉.
I to town 11 a.m. To Drury Lane Theatre and bought upper circle seats 9/-. Walk and bus to Oxford Circus; 2 sandwiches and pastry at Green Lizard 2/6 with tip. To my Club. Rest. Then to Theatre 2.30. Down to Dress Circle at half-time. At 5.30 out. Bus to Oxford Circus. To Club. Rest, “dinner” at 7. Bus 113 to Baker Street. Train home. (Teddy did lots of digging). “Before The Morning”, Mabel Constanduros and Howard Agg.
Jan Masaryk’s suicide – 9th or 10th.
Thursday 11th March 1948
Very fine and warm.
Eva and Alys to town for shopping (Eva‘s hair done at Foake’s 3.30). Bolivar lunch. Teddy and I lunched at Durham; he to pub first. I altering tweed skirt all day. Teddy digging and manuring. Talk to Captain Mercer re. rats. Alys home same time as Eve. Tea. Eve frightened by Children’s Hour story “Biggles Flies West”, Part 1. Corned beef and Alys’ gallantine, (soup 1st), tomato salad. “Crime, Gentlemen Please”.
Friday 12th March 1948
Fine and warm.
Alys only orange juice till supper time. Phil phoned, and Alys went to fetch EYT back from Ford’s in Commercial Road (not back till 3.30). Eva made stew; I did kohlrabi. Teddy did a lot of digging. Teddy and Eva went to tea at Marion‘s. I to fetch BHN from Post Office: got my sugar. Alys left EYT at Killick’s. Alys did “Scotch soles”, oven fried, with lovely sauce.
Saturday 13th March 1948
Fine, warm.
Up 7.15 Eva, Teddy, Eve and I to Victoria. 10.23 to Mitcham Junction, little train onto Beddington Halt. Walk to kennels and saw Dougal quarantined there (near Hackbridge). Back to Victoria, lunch at Stewart‘s there. I to Central Hall; annual meeting of R.S.P.B. (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) 2.15. General Lord Forester. Lecture on Saint Kilda., Birds, slides. Very good of island and gannets. James Fisher, Ludwig Koch records. Colour film by C. W. Holt, very good whinchat. Ice at Milk Bar, Swiss Cottage. Home 6.45. Tomato soup, corned beef. “Libel” by Edward Wooll, Esmé Percy.
Memo:
12th Phil’s Hunt Ball with Morlock’s, and weekend there.
13th R.S.P.B. Annual General Meeting 2.15, Central Hall, Westminster.
15th 2.30 Trinity Church. Mr Longbotham’s Memorial Service.
14th Summertime begins.
17th Truman’s important speech accusing Russia of obstructing peace.
Sunday 14th March 1948
Perfect day.
Phil’s weekend at Morlock’s. Teddy and Eva up early and off to see James at school at Hurst Green. Eve and I in garden. Picked kohlrabi greens. Alys braised beef joint. We had Eva’s stew for dinner, and omelette soufflé. Eve prepared “tea party” in hut. Rested, slept. Tea in hut 4.30. Gardening (with Eve) till 6.30. Soup and bouchée from Durham. (Alys eating very little all day).
Monday 15th March 1948
Cooler, grey.
Eva and Teddy heard they had got the furnished home at Quenton. Alys took only orange juice all day. Not down to breakfast, but up, and doing braised beef and peas. I had to get potatoes (last week). Teddy digging. Alys to Service at St Martin’s for Mr Longbotham 2.30. I did tweed skirt. Teddy to Baker Street to buy Austin 7. Eva made Welsh rarebit, and cabbage for supper. Eva, Teddy and I to Cattle’s at 8.15 (Alys to bed). Home before 10.
Tuesday 16th March 1948
Fair, cool.
Teddy to Reading to get petrol coupons. Eva to town, bought hat. Alys and I to Northwood Hills; (took my radio). Cold Bacon and semolina soufflé, iced apple. I doing my skirt in p.m. Teddy back and digging by 4. Gardner at 5 till 7 (Mrs Bearcroft cleaned Eve‘s room). Eve gardening. Haddock and toast, grapefruit. Phoned Kit and wrote Beach Hotel re, dates.
Wednesday 17th March 1948
Cool, dullish.
Eva and Teddy to Quainton taking some luggage (lunch, Aylesbury with Miss Abbott). Alys and I to Northwood Hills. Got my radio. Home. Alys to Kingham’s and meet Eve. I did kohlrabi. Stew at 1. Eve back 12.30. Baked apples. Rests in p.m. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen. Eva and Teddy back to tea, and out to Wickham’s. Sausages (Vienna) and mashed potatoes. Truman speech.
Thursday 18th March 1948
Cold but fine.
Eve’s 8th birthday. Teddy to Golders Green to fetch Austin 7. Eva and Alys to shops and Food Office. I sewed coat. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen. Eva, Teddy, Alys and I to Durham, 1 o’clock. Ted and I to Carey‘s for seeds, and I bought shears, 7/6. Alys and Eva to Rickmansworth to school concert. Teddy sewed seeds and planted shallots till past 7 o’clock, from 2. Tea with a cake and 8 candles at 4.45. Gardener came. 5 – 7. Baked brill with onions and kohlrabi (mashed). Ruth Draper. “Crime, Gentlemen Please”.
Friday 19th March 1948
Cool, grey, showery.
Eva and Teddy busy packing and Alys helping, with stores, all morning. All of us to Durham 12.15; Home and then Teddy and Eva away in the new (1936) Austin 7 about 2 o’clock. Alys in car to shops, and met Eve at 4.30. Tea. Kitty phoned. Later Phil phoned, and at 8 o’clock Eva from Quainton phoned. Vienna sausages and cold bacon, and grapefruit. “20 Questions”. Nobel Prize winners’ speeches. Sir Robert Robinson and Sir Edward Appleton.
Saturday 20th March 1948
Fine. Cool.
Eve down and sewing dolls coat. Alys with Eve to shops. I dusted. All of us to lunch at Durham (upstairs). Gardener came, and we laid sods. I cut lilac (for car). Grand National, we all listened in (Phil arrived at 3). Ironed and sewed and read to Eve (John Gilpin). Walk to get Radio Times and Bourn-Vita and doll’s bottle, after tea. Turbot with egg-sauce. Grapefruit. “The Light of Heart”, Emlyn Williams, Angela Baddeley, Laidman Browne.
Memo:
18th Eve’s 8th birthday.
15th Longbotham’s Memorial Service 2.30.
Rent paid to 18th – King Henry’s Road, £8.8.0. Sent rent till June 10th.
14th Summertime begins.
19th Teddy’s 19 days leave up?
14th Wrote for oatmeal with 14 points.
18th Sent papers back to Ernest: investments
Wrote Captain Gordon.
23rd Rinty Monaghan British Fly Weight Champion beat Jackie Paterson.
Sunday 21st March 1948
Cool, grey.
Phil in bed, after breakfast, until lunch 1.15. Played ball with Eve. Braised beef, chicory. Bruxelles chocolate. Eve cried a lot about wanting Eva. I made yeast rolls. Alys had Eve in her room while resting. Phil in hut, with Vidor. Alys made cheese scones for tea. Talked with Phil re. cars and petrol. Parsley and chives omelette. Phil away 8.15. 8 cases. “Barnaby Rudge”.
Monday 22nd March 1948
Fine. Cool wind. Sunny.
Alys up at 7 and got Eve‘s breakfast and she to school 8 o’clock. I to post with Phil‘s pyjamas. Alys and I to Durham, lunch 12.30. Home. Rest, and sewing at 3. To Pinner, Woodman‘s (no eggboxes). Alys to meet Eve, Kewferry Road. Tea in sitting room. In garden, all of us, ball exercises. Lime on beds. Sewed spring onions. Read “Log of Ark” to Eve. Cheese rissoles and cold bacon, prunes. “Four Feathers”, Edridge, “The Marvellous History of Saint Bernard”, by Henri Gheon. David Peel.
Tuesday 23rd March 1948
Fine, cool, sunny.
I up at 7 and got Eve‘s breakfast and her off to school at 8 a.m. I to Trafalgar Square and bought 2 egg-boxes at Civil Service Stores. Lunch Green Lizard, counter. To Hanan and Lafayette, Evans’, Selfridge’s. Bought grey flannel for skirt. To Foakes – Miss Doreen and Margaret. To Sagne‘s, coffee. Home. Alys and Eve in car. Gardening, with Eve. Tinned Scotch broth, Welsh rarebit with egg (not Alys), prunes. White wine from Layton.
Wednesday 24th March 1948
Fine, cool, sunny.
Alys at 7, and Eve to school, home at 12.30. Mended sheet. Laundry came. Kit phoned. Hot braised beef, kohlrabi greens. Baked apple. Eve played with Veronica (from Seddon’s maid) and Dennis Bearcroft. Mrs. Bearcroft cleaned kitchen, and ironed. Cook came 2½ hours. I unpicked tweed coat and tried to alter it and hem of striped skirt. Paid post egg-boxes 2, and Kingham’s order. Planted lettuce in pots. Fishcakes and chips, prunes.
Thursday 25th March 1948
Very fine.
Alys packed Eve‘s things, and they both took Quainton by 10.50 train. I drove car back, 9.45. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room. I all day cutting out and making grey flannel skirt. Liver and onions and baked apple. Washed grey cardigan. Gardener came. Paid him 15/– for today and yesterday. Alys back at 8.20. Kippers and chocolate mousse. “Crime, Gentleman Please”.
Friday 26th March 1948
Perfect.
Alys to Kitty’s for day. I doing grey flannel coat (of Gorray skirt); and in garden, liming and picked daffodils. Liver soup. Hot cross bun. Gardener Cook 2 – 6, 12/-, finished turfing. Sardines, plums. Alys back at 8.45. Reading “Thursday Afternoons”, Monica Dickens.
Saturday 27th March 1948
Perfect. Cool wind.
Alys to shops then I to shops. I in queue for bread. Phil arrived about 12 o’clock. Lunch on terrace – cold meats and tomato salad. Sewed coat in p.m. Phil lay on terrace. Boat Race broadcast. I in car to get oranges and rock plants, saxifrage. Alys and Phil in his car JLN to Denham. Scallops, grapefruit.
Memo:
Points period ends.
22nd Alys wrote Baden re. Dennis‘s things to be sent to Phil.
I wrote Dublin for patterns.
24th Eve’s term ends. Bought 12 lettuce plants 1/6 Salmon’s.
25th Eve to Quainton.
23rd Foakes.
Sunday 28th March 1948
Very fine.
Made sandwiches and started about 11.20 in JLN. Drove through Amersham and Wendover and Aylesbury to Quainton. To Colonsay, Eva and Teddy and Eve there in their new home. All ate lunch in garden by front door. Saw all over house, garden, out-houses. Tea outdoors too. Away at 4.15 or 4.30. Home by 6. Phil in hut. Vienna sausages and mashed potatoes, tomato gravy (in oven in Pyrex). Bourn-Vita and cheese.
Monday 29th March 1948
Dullish, fair.
Phil didn’t dress till after tea. We had grilled cutlets and mushrooms. Braised seakale with sauce, cabbage and some sausage sausages. Chocolate mousse. Rests. Put cotton across seeds in beds. Tea in Phil‘s room. Phil filled in his petrol request. Spaghetti and poached eggs. “Spring in Park Lane”, Michael Wilding, Anna Neagle 8 – 9. Good. “Easter”, Strindberg (Swede) 9.15 – 10.30.
Tuesday 30th March 1948
Dullish. Fair, windy.
Eva phoned about 9.40; (temperature) so Alys to Quainton by 10.40 (to Killick’s first). Defrosted Camley, and phoned Refrigerator Co. Fried sandwiches (Sunday’s) and colcannon (grill), seakale. Mrs Bearcroft (and Dennis). I in car to Carey‘s. Alys phoned at 5 (Eva sinus pain). I phoned Phil, to tell him. Ironed. Soup, cold sausages, rhubarb (our own forced) and custard. “The Honourable History of Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay”, Robert Greene 1560 – 1592.
Wednesday 31st March 1948
Gale. Cool. Showers.
Very anxious re. Eva all a.m. Stayed in for phone, sewed and ironed. Vienna sausage; chocolate and cake pudding. Mrs Bearcroft at 2. Alys phoned 2.15. Eva better! Out to fill BHN with last petrol coupon (3 gallons). To Kingham’s. Long wait there. Home. Sewed and listened in. Finished knitting borders for grey cardigan. Soup with egg, rhubarb and custard. Pickles from Reeth.
The Diaries of my Great-Great-Aunt Kate 