In 1957, Kate is 78 years old and Alys is 73 years old. Eva is 48 years old and Philip is 44 years old (Alys and Dennis’ daughter and son). James is 19 years old (Eva and Teddy’s son) and Eve (Eva and Teddy’s’ daughter (my mother)) is 17 years old.
This Diary Belongs to:
Name: Katharine Boyd
Address:
12 Grove Road
Northwood
Middlesex
and
119 Bickenhall Mansions
Baker Street
London W.1.
Telephone: Northwood 1356
Welbeck 6522
In event of accident please notify…
Dr Embleton
St Helen’s Hospital
Ipswich 77251
or 5 The Rest, Crag Path, Aldeburgh, Suffolk.
Northwood
Tuesday 1st January 1957
Fair, very damp.
2nd filling came out of tooth. Mrs Bearcroft, my bedroom. To Eva‘s. She out with puppet to sell and I hung up her washing. Her foot numb and leg painful. To shops. Mr West at 2.30 re. kitchen stove (Domestic). Cut off curtain lengths for dining room. “The Archaeologist – A Pre-Roman Town near Cirencester“, pre-Roman town, Bagendon.
Wednesday 2nd January 1957
Perfect Fair. Damp.
Eva phoned, not to come. Brett came, paid him 28/–. To get paraffin and met Mrs Hill. She brought fish, and for tonight. Cut out linings for curtains in sitting room. Alys came 5.30 (dropping Eve at O.M.Q. (Officers’ Married Quarters). Fried fish. Sat with Alys in Alys’ room. “This Happy Breed”, Noël Coward.
Thursday 3rd January 1957
Perfect day.
Mr West re. stove and Alys decided on repairs. Mrs Bearcroft came. Eva at 9.30. Alys with her home and Mrs Bearcroft too, to help. In BHN to Jones’ and for bread for Eva. Lunch. At 1.40 to OMQ. Alys to buy potatoes. Took Humphey walk on lead. Back 2.30. Carried shelves in and put in stands (bookcase). Rest, slept. Kippers upstairs.
Friday 4th January 1957
Dull. Mild.
Eva at 9.30. Alys in BHN to get fowl, and boiled it for Berry’s. I in BHN to meet Mrs Hill, and get bread and jam. Eva came back to lunch with Alys. Hot boiled bacon and carrots. Alys with her to OMQ (preparation for the party). Sent cheques to Cook’s Garage and Blennerhasset. Rest. Miss Johnson phoned. Talk on class in Britain – “Social Class in Britain Today”. Machined curtains.
Saturday 5th January 1957
Very mild.
Walked to get bap and asbestos mats. Alys in BHN to Miss Johnson‘s and shops. She cooked mince and peas. Miss Johnson came with Phibb’s note. Alys to get rings for curtains. I machined more. Nigel in re. green hut roof and we talked of Phil‘s room, and he will do shelves! Rests. Did address (‘phone) book. Alys sewed curtains. Forgot play “Escapade” till 10 o’clock!
Memo:
3rd Mr West to see Alys re. Domestic boiler, 2.30 to 3.
5th Eve with Nicholas to Boat Show.
4th Dance (party) OMQ.
Eisenhower‘s scheme for Middle East, and prevention of communist aggression.
Sunday 6th January 1957
Fine. Colder.
Blackbird “Eyebrows” sang sub song on veranda. Mr Cattle and Nigel in, re. Phil’s shelves. Machined last 2 curtains. Alys cleaned sideboard drawers, and sewed rings on. Wrote Edith Bache and to post, Moor Park Road. Rest. Phone number book finished. Eve called on Alys.
Monday 7th January 1957
Dull, damp.
Mrs Bearcroft. Eva got 9.25. Alys to get meat and Mrs Hill and Gas Co. (for Phil’s fire). I took Eno. Took rings of curtains and washed them. Alys to Sparks’ re. hut. I rested 2 – 5! (Cypriot cripple girl – “Our Day and Age – Angelina can now walk”).
Tuesday 8th January 1957
Dull. Mild.
Alys to Eva‘s and do Eva‘s shopping. I mended sheet; and laundry. At 2.45 to Mount Vernon Hospital. Alys drove BHN. Blennerhasset took out eye-tooth with local anaesthetic. Home 4.15. Nigel came re. shelves – estimate £20. Alys with Eva to meet James and Eve and for butter. I rested. Soup and bacon. Edward Ward on Poland – “On the Spot – Report on Poland”.
Wednesday 9th January 1957
Dull. Mild.
Took Alys to 10.16. She met James and to 119 Bickenhall Mansions, made beds. Met Mrs Hill who cooked joint. Alys and James to lunch 1.15. I took James BHN to OMQ, and on to station. He to 119 Bickenhall Mansions and Phil there 3 – 4. Arnold‘s men, Harry and Jack, brought books; and we put in shelves. Alys tipped them £1 each. Sparks’ man did pipes.
19th Sir Anthony Eden resigned premiership (health). Macmillan succeeds.
Cozy stove lit.
Eva and James slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions after Rene‘s dance
11th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 10th January 1957
Very fine. Colder.
Alys to shops for Eva and she came to lunch, sausages. Alys cooked. I arranged books. Walked to get bread. Eva home but back for tea. She and Alys in Rover, 4.26 to town. To Doctor Cyriax who gave injection (spinal) for her sciatica and disc. Alys phoned me from 119 Bickenhall Mansions and they had supper there. Alys home 9.5.
Friday 11th January 1957
Fine to fair. Cool.
Eva at 10.40 (and James) took us to station. James to Yattie’s (Marion Berry). I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. To Library. Alys came in with tins (replacement) and on to Liverpool Street station (1.30 to Aldeburgh). Fish rissole lunch. To Selfridge’s, got foam mop and something and stockings and paid bill. To get Herbal mixture 11/ –. To 11 Chandos Street. Tea. Lois and Laurie. Miss Usher – Stonehenge, very good.
Saturday 12th January 1957
(no weather)
Enquiries re. coal cellar. Mrs Kurtin cleaned (3/6). Tipped Jimmy 10/–. Cleaned flat a bit. 11.48 to Northwood. Walked up. Cold mince. Arranged books in shelves. Alys phoned 6.30 re. Phil‘s plans. Janie Marden “Mrs Shufflewick”. “A Wreath for my Enemy”, Pamela Frankau.
Memo:
8th James on leave. Mount Vernon Hospital 3 p.m. for tooth, C-Block Theatre.
11th B.A.A.
11th Alys to Aldeburgh.
8th Laundry.
9th Rene‘s dance. James and Eve sleep 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
R.A.I?
Arnold’s men with books 2.
12th Mrs Bearcroft.
16th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Dull, cold.
Wrote Amy Steel (Eden). Arranged more books – Yachting. Phoned Eva re. James lunch. Made pastry, Lyons. “All That Fall”, Samuel Beckett, Irish blind man and wife (Rooney).
Monday 14th January 1957
Very, very cold. North East wind. Dullish.
Mrs Bearcroft (Sylvia in Nursing Home since Friday). BHN to meet Mrs Hill and buy steak and kidney. To Bank. James at 1 o’clock. After lunch he took crates and coal scuttle to OMQ and got mat (Tunis) for Humphey. Tipped £1. Put apron on BHN. Posted lettercard to Alys. Phoned Hearn. Eve phoned re. Saturday. Sewed curtain hem.
Tuesday 15th January 1957
Very cold. Grey.
Mrs Bearcroft; she phoned Carter and heard Sylvia had a boy. Walked to shops, Mince. Sewed hem of curtain 2. Postcard to Mrs Hill. Nigel in and put dust sheets down. Packed green coat in sack for “destituting children”. “The Floor is Yours”, Sir Brian Horrocks. “The Travellers”, Mortimer Wheeler, Colonel John Hodges, Peter Fleming, Ella Maillart.
Wednesday 16th January 1957
Greyish.
Eva came. Brett came. Got paraffin, Daz, plug. Met Mrs Hill, who got fish. 1.12 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Got milk. Phil came 2.50. Talk, 1 cup of tea and marmite sandwich at 4. He left at 4.35. Phone out of order (explosion North London. Mushrooms and bacon. “Squaring the Circle”, Valentin Kataev.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 18th, 19th.
Humphey bitten 17th.
Thursday 17th January 1957
Fine. Warmer.
Up 7. To Northwood by 8,20. Walked up. Mrs Bearcroft. Nigel, Harry and Jack from Arnold‘s put stair carpet down. Eva phoned re. Humphey being bitten in jaw. Defrosted Fridge and Page’s men repaired stove in kitchen. Lettercard to Alys, to post. Very interesting Atlantic discussion. Lionel Heald, Aidan Crawley, U.S.A. Thomas Finletter and August Heckscher.
Friday 18th January 1957
Dullish.
Eva came. Met Mrs Hill 11.15. 1.57 to Baker Street. To Classic 1.30, “Sabrina Fair”, Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart. Out 4.5. Got milk. At 6.15 to Caxton Hall, Tudor Room. Coffee 7. At 7.30 films – “Handling Laboratory Animals”, “Why Shut Him Up?” (Dr Dawson, owner of stallion) and U.F.A.W. summer school. Kenneth Bird (Fougasse) in chair.
Saturday 19th January 1957
Fair.
Walked to Bank. Bus back. Washed clothes. Fish fingers (grill) lunch. Rest. Eve came at 4 with sheets, and out again. At 4.15 to Waterloo. Read till 5.15. To Film Theatre queue till 5.45. In to “Paisan”, Italian war film. Out at 8.15. Back by 8.30 119 Bickenhall Mansions (“The Archers”). Eve came at 11.30; been to “The Boy Friend” with James Johnson.
Memo:
14th Gas man.
16th Phil Bicky p.m.
17th Hearn rings up.
18th Film, Caxton Hall U.F.A.W. 7 p.m.
19th Eve sleeps 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 20th January 1957
Fair.
Eve slept on divan. Woke 9.30 – 10. Coffee only. Both of us about 11.30 to Northwood. Teddy met us. Took me back (and collected jerricans pool petrol). Lunch. Lettercard to Alys. Posted it. “Redgauntlet”.
Monday 21st January 1957
Fair, mild.
To Eva’s at 10.20. She in bed, sinus (but no longer swollen). On to meet Mrs Hill, getting liver. “The Strong Are Lonely”, Hochwalder. Wolfit as Father Provincial. Jesuits in Paraguay.
Tuesday 22nd January 1957
Fair.
Mrs Bearcroft. Walked to get bap. Nigel in all day working on shelves. Sewed curtains. Mended sheet; laundry. Alys came about 5.30.
Wednesday 23rd January 1957
Fine. Cold wind.
Brett did coke and sawed wood. I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Got milk, butter, rolls. Had lunch (Eva to lunch with Alys. Mrs Hill did pork). At 2.15 about Phil to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. On divan. We talked. Tea 4.15. He left at 4.35 for Harley Street, Papworth? I to Library at 4.50. Caught 5.8 for Marylebone. Walked up. Pheasant soup! Play St John Ervine – “Mrs Martin’s Man”.
Thursday 24th January 1957
Perfect day.
No Mrs Bearcroft, as Sylvia home with baby. Alys to shops in BHN. Lit Cozy (which out). Walked round block in sun. Eva to lunch – pork, sprouts. Eva phoned College re. terms for Eve if staying. Nigel all day. Alys cooked sausages for supper. Phil phoned 8.
Friday 25th January 1957
Fine a.m. Rain p.m.
Eva came in. Alys to shops in BHN. Then I met Mrs Hill, and then took Alys to station about 12 (for Aldeburgh). Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen. “Any Questions?” Arranged books, Penguins.
Saturday 26th January 1957
Very mild a.m.
Walked to shops for refill for pen, and plug. Washed roller towel and pants. Nigel in p.m. – hinges and handles. Picked up apples; lots in orchard. “African Interlude”, Bruce Stewart – civil servant who wanted to compose and sister-in-law.
Memo:
22nd Laundry.
25th “Edwardian Youth” to Library and “Point of Order”.
To Blennerhasset for tooth on plate.
Sunday 27th January 1957
Sun and showers, windy.
Wrote Nellie Moir, and to post Moor Park Road. Teddy and James came to find “L’Attaque”. Nigel put doors on cabinet. Washed my hair 3. “The Dead Sea Scrolls”, D. G. Bridson.
Monday 28th January 1957
Fair.
Mrs Hill phoned – not coming. To Jones’; in BHN and Allen‘s and paraffin. Lunch 1.40 as salad and tinned Australian meat. Mrs Bearcroft at 2.15. Made sponge cakes. Alys phoned at 6.10 (a cold, not coming today). “The Way of all Flesh”, Butler.
Tuesday 29th January 1957
Fair. Mild.
Eva in. I to Packard’s for joint of lamb, and met Mrs Hill. Eva to lunch; she took Mrs Hill home. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room. Alys phoned 6.15, not coming till Thursday – sore throat. Phoned Eva.
Wednesday 30th January 1957
Very mild. Drizzly, dull.
Brett sawed wood in garage. Walked to 10.17 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. To Burlington House Winter Exhibition, British portraits. Very good. Lunch 1.30 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Phil at 2.15. He lay on divan. Talk and L. E. Jones’ “À la Carte”. Tea 4.15. Phil left 4.33. I to Library. Phoned Alys. Slept at 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
4 students set free by Hungarians.
Thursday 31st January 1957
Dull, showers, mild.
Up 7.30. Cleaned a bit and by 10.3 to Northwood. Got bacon corner 10/– and fish. Met Mrs Hill and Colliver Fisher back 3/–. Cold lamb and salad. Nigel finished cupboards. Mrs Bearcroft p.m. Alys at 5.15 (sore throat). “The Pilgrim’s Dinner”, farewell to Winthrop Aldrich.
Friday 1st February 1957
Rain a.m. Fair, very mild p.m.
Alys down to breakfast (sore throat) in a dressing gown, then to bed for day (Eva and Eve colds). Met Mrs Hill, shoulder of lamb 9/4, leeks. Mrs Bearcroft p.m., kitchen. Nigel doing catches (fasteners) on cupboards. Haddock fillets. “Any Questions?” (Worcester training ship).
Saturday 2nd February 1957
Dull. Mild.
Alys down to breakfast but back to bed. Came down, dressed to do potatoes (mince). I did applesauce. Alys’ throat sore again, and 99°F at teatime. I made hat cover of lampshade frame (Nigel cut-off part of wire). “The Secret Battle”, A. P. Herbert (young officer shot 1917).
Memo:
Hearn this week? 28th?
Alys back 29th or 30th?
30th Phil at 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
31st Alys back.
Sunday 3rd February 1957
Perfect day.
(Phil at hospital on-call). Alys dressed a.m., better and normal all day! Cold lamb, tomato, and watercress. Nigel painted foot of cabinet with Rentokil. Eve came and sat with Alys upstairs. I posted letters. Phil phoned 7. “The Dead Sea Scrolls” (2), Bridson.
Monday 4th February 1957
Fair.
Mrs Bearcroft came (to our surprise) a.m. In BHN to meet Mrs Hill. Posted patterns to Hearn. Alys got up. Washed mats. Nigel and Mr Cattle moved cabinet into Phil‘s room. “The Windmill Theatre: Twenty-Five Years Non-Stop”, Kenneth More. “Antigone” Anouilh.
Tuesday 5th February 1957
Dull, rainy, mild.
Eva in. Mrs Bearcroft, sitting room. In BHN to Boots and bap; then waited 20 minutes for Mrs Hill, who had come earlier and walked up. Irond mats. Nigel did cabinet all over with Rentokil. Mrs Hill did out larder. Ravioli. “The Archaeologist”, Ian Richmond, Ernest Greenfield, Rosemary Campbell, Nicholas Thomas.
Wednesday 6th February 1957
Very fine, mild.
Brett. Eva in and took me to station and Alys to shops. Nigel did door (planing). To Fern’s (deposited £4) and got coffee. To Bank. Pork pie 8d lunch, cheese 1/6. Phil at 3. Talk and tea. I to Library with “à la Carte”. 5.8 from Marylebone. Walked up. Scrambled eggs. “Jane‘s Legacy”, Eden Phillpotts.
8th 119 Bickenhall Mansions
Thursday 7th February 1957
Rain all day.
Mrs Bearcroft. Alys to meet Mrs Hill in BHN. Mrs Hill did cupboards and contents, corned beef lunch. I sawed wood on garage and walked to shops at 3.45. Alys did lots of work with Mrs Hill. She also made cauliflower au gratin for supper. “Any Answers?”
Friday 8th February 1957
Fair, mild.
Gas man put in fire; Phil‘s work room. Alys to shops and meet Mrs Hill. I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions about 12. Got milk. Rest after lunch. To 11 Chandos Street. Lecture Mrs Frank Collin 13th century sword-belt. “How is the lady with the lovely smile?”. Back 119 Bickenhall Mansions at 6.15. (“Sailing Through Holland” Seymour’s Jenny III in Dutch canal).
Saturday 9th February 1957
Fair, mild.
9.49 to Northwood. Walked up. Phil in to see Nigel (Phil came about 9 last night from Ipswich). Alys to shops in BHN. Hot beef, spinach (Fropax), rhubarb. Rest p.m. Books, books with Phil (discarding). Soles (grilled) with lovely sauce.
Memo:
5th Laundry. Mrs Hill to clean shelves.
6th Phil 119 Bickenhall Mansions 8.30.
7th Nanook of the North, National Film Theatre 6.15.
8th B.A.A. Mrs Frank Collin 13th century sword-belt.
8th Phil here?
5th and 8th Mrs Hill extra days for cupboards.
11th Hearn kitchen painting all week.
13th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 10th February 1957
Rain, some sun.
Lighted Cozy stove. Phil and Nigel clearing out in lathe room. James came over for 15 minutes. Phil in BHN to Berry’s at 12.20 (Eva better!) Cold beef and salads, grapefruit. Dismantled orange box (wormy). Alys and I clearing kitchen ready for Hearn. Phil away for 12. “The Dead Sea Scrolls”.
Monday 11th February 1957
Fine, fair.
Up 7.15. Made coffee in my bedroom, and porridge. Alys and I breakfast in spare room. Hearn (and man and boy) came 9 and began decoration of kitchen. Mrs Bearcroft came. I walked for tea. Alys to Eva‘s in p.m. in BHN. Humphey back. (Sanctions against Israel, dilemma of U.S.)
Tuesday 12th February 1957
Dull a.m. Finer p.m.
Breakfast 8.45. Mrs Bearcroft. I walked to get brown bread. A;ys made curry. Alys to Mrs Hill’s with curtains. I to Ryder’s, bought jumper. Hearn 1st coat on kitchen. Larder done. “Friends at Court”, Henry Cecil (lawyers), very good.
Wednesday 13th February 1957
Showers and sun.
Brett. Alys took me to station at 11. Shopped. After lunch 2.15 Phil came. He asleep till 4.15. I rested. Tea. To R.A.I. 5 – 6.15, Lois and Laurie. Waterloo. Sausages, B.E.A. (British European Airways). Queue at 7.15 in at 8. “The African Queen”, Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn. Home 10.30.
Alys slept at OMQ 18 (Teddy to Thirsk).
Thursday 14th February 1957
Fair.
Did a lot of cleaning and arranging beds for Phil and Sam (Parsee). Mrs Kertin cleaned too (3/6). Home to Northwood at 5.15, walked up. Hearn has finished kitchen! (paint too blue instead grey). “Radio Link”, U.S., Tel Aviv, Paris, Arab (in London) and U.N., very good.
Friday 15th February 1957
Fine to fair.
Breakfast upstairs still. With Alys to meet Mrs Hill (10,30). To get orange crates. Alys and Mrs Hill BHN up. I walked up with Japlac. Sausages, lunch. All of us putting kitchen things back. Alys to 119 Bickenhall Mansions to get ready for Phil and Sam. I getting orange crates ready; my shoe one and new little one. Alys back at 5.30.
Saturday 16th February 1957
Fine, sunny. Frosty a.m.
Mrs Bearcroft came. Alys to shops. I did stewed steak and onions (Alys told me how). Got orange box in order and Alys put curtains up. Phil came about 3.30. Grilled herrings. “The End of the Tether”, Conrad (captain went blind).
Memo:
11th Hearn 8,30 a.m. kitchen decision.
14th Phil and Sam (Parsee) to 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
13th R.A.I. English brass chandeliers, Robert Sherlock.
Gasman 2 – 4.30 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
15th Phil sleeps at 119 Bickenhall Mansions and Northwood for 16th.
13th James to Isle of Man.
Duke of Edinburgh (after 4 months’ tour) meets Queen in Portugal.
Sunday 17th February 1956
Very fine a.m., frosty. Dull p.m.
Tidied up. Phil into Cattle’s and then in BHN to Eva‘s. Alys cooked pheasant, bread sauce; ice cream, chocolate sauce. Desk drawer. Phil away 4. BHN to station (Alys drove). Read Alanbrooke’s Diaries, Arthur Bryant, and Sunday Times. Discussion on it 9.15 – “Neptune’s General”, General Leslie Hollis, Rear Admiral Angus Nichol, Arthur Blake, Peter Masefield.
Monday 18th February 1957
Very fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. I in BHN to High Street, Allen‘s. Mrs Hill. Got 6 Seville oranges. Eva came to lunch. After, Alys in Eva‘s car (and Mrs Hill) to Osborne‘s for shoes. I cut up oranges. Eva showed Mrs Hill OMQ 18. “Private Angelo”, Eric Linklater.
Tuesday 19th February 1957
Dull, cool.
Teddy phoned – Eva very bad night with sinus; Dr Phibbs big injection penicillin. Alys to Eva‘s, and all day and night. I made 8lb marmalade. Mrs Bearcroft here. Alys back for a little pheasant at 11.45 and again with Teddy at 6, to leave BHN, and get night things. Ironed towels (laundry). Alys slept at Eva’s. Eva’s temperature 103°F and rigours.
Wednesday 20th February 1957
Cold. Sunny a.m.
Alys back with Teddy to get BHN. Brett came. I walked to station 11.30 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions (met Mrs Hill with steak). To Library and dairy. Curried scrambled eggs. Phil at 2.15. Told him about Eva‘s sinus. Both of us rested. Alys phoned. I to Marylebone 5.8, walked up. Alys slept at Eva‘s again. “Love Story”, Leslie Halward.
Eisenhower and Israel on withdrawal from Gulf on Aqaba and Gaza Strip.
N.B. sent Hearn’s bill to Ernest Vernor Miles.
Thursday 21st February 1957
Fine. Cold.
Mrs Bearcroft sitting room. I took BHN to Eva‘s. Then to Baron‘s for Seville oranges, back to Eva‘s. Teddy took me to 12 Grove Road in BHN and took it back to OMQ 18 for Alys. I cut up oranges. Nigel in. Alys at 3 in BHN and both of us back to Eva‘s, left Alys and back and put BHN on charge. Walked to 3.30 train. To Express, Baker Street – milk. To N.F.T. at 5. At 6 “Greed”, Erich von Stroheim. Home, Northwood at 9.30.
Friday 22nd February 1957
Fine. Perfect.
Got sugar from loft. To OMQ in BHN. Alys and I to shops. I got petrol. Met Mrs Hill. To 12 Grove Road; Alys on in car to OMQ. At 1.50 I made marmalade. Mrs Bearcroft cleaned kitchen and I made 2nd batch after; 8lb in all. Alys came in BHN at 5.35. To station. Alys to 119 Bickenhall Mansions for night. I put car on charge. Took Special Essence.
Saturday 23rd February 1957
Sleet, cold.
Out 10.15 in BHN for bread and paraffin. Also oranges. Phoned Teddy re. Eva. At 2.50 to meet Alys and Phil. All home in BHN. Alys did turbot for supper.
Memo:
19th Laundry.
20th Phil 119 Bickenhall Mansions 2.15 – 4.30.
22nd Phil and Sam to sleep at 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
21st and 22nd “Greed” N.F.T. 3/–.
23rd Phil till 24th.
22nd Phil and Alys sleep 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Eve half term holiday. Teddy 2 weeks leave.
Eva was to stay in bed till Monday – Doctor Phibbs’ order.
Sunday 24th February 1957
Damp. Rain a.m. No frost.
Phil slight sore throat. In bed all day. Eve came in p.m. bringing orange squeezer and 1 pint milk and Humphey. She up with Phil and to tea. I had Humphey. Read Alanbrooke and with Phil a little.
Monday 25th February 1957
Fine, mild.
Phil in bed all day, cough. Alys met Mrs Hill and then to Eva‘s. I to get leeks, and to Bank and for cream. With Phil a little. Cut out dark grey coat. Alys phoned. Mrs Stuart (Dr flu!) and Dudley Baker.
Tuesday 26th February 1957
Fine. Mild.
Phil in bed to breakfast. Dr Baker came 11.45 and said Phil might go today. Alys with Phil to hospital and Collins for Aureomycin at 12.30. Cold lamb 1 o’clock. At 1.57 (train) Phil to Liverpool Street station. Alys BHN on to Eva‘s and Watford with Eve. I to get Sylko, and Tyzanol 4/1. Moved out planks from Phil’s hut neighbourhood. Sat on veranda, “Eyebrows” sang sub song to me. Machined coat. Scallops for supper.
Wednesday 27th February 1957
Fog, then fine.
Nigel doing Phil‘s room. Brett. I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions and to Fern’s. Got milk, rolls, butter. Lunch at Lyons, Oxford Street 1/9. Phil at 2:.5. Talk and tea. Still coughing. I got 5.9 from Marylebone. Alys met me in BHN. Pheasant soup. “Scrapbook for 1902”.
1st Israel to withdrawal.
Thursday 28th February 1957
Fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. Washed clothes. Cut up oranges. Alys to shops and Cooke’s re. tyres. At 1.30 Alys to Lord’s re. trees. I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions for Alys’ glasses. To Gamages for The Audubon Bird Call 7.6. To Northwood by 5.8 from Marylebone. BHN home and called for Alys at hairdressers. Phil phoned, Eva phoned. Alys to Cattle’s for milk. Alys sore throat.
Friday 1st March 1957
Fine.
Alys stayed in bed all day, sore throat. I made marmalade till 11.20. Met Mrs Hill. Nigel in doing wall. Leg of lamb. Went on with coat seams then rested. Took No. 10. Fillets of haddock, supper.
Saturday 2nd March 1957
Fine, warm.
Alys 99°F. In bed all day. Took No. 10 (I did). To shops, Jones’. Long queues. Corned beef, tomato salad. Sat on veranda. “Eyebrows” sub-singing close by. Nigel did garage door. Alys over 99°F later. Kippers and cream cheese. “The Pied Piper”, Nevil Shute.
Memo:
26th Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room?
Phil on duty at hospital, weekend.
2nd Czech puppets N.F.T. 3, 6.30, 8.30.
Sunday 3rd March 1957
Very fine and mild. Frost early.
Alys sub-normal. In bed all day. Eva and Eve came with Humphey. Eva better, foot and leg. Gave Eve zip and Petersham and red belt. Nigel doing Phil‘s wall. Did a lot to grey coat; and put collar on. Posted letter from Alys to Phil, and lettercard from Alys to Kitty. Corned beef lunch. Scrambled eggs supper.
Monday 4th March 1957
Fine, mild, misty.
Took No. 10 several times. Alys in bed all day, but supper downstairs in dressing gown. I met Mrs Hill. Got bacon. Lowerson’s here to cut trees. 8.30 – 3.30. Kipper supper. Alys down in dressing gown. Special Essence and No. 10 as cold heavy.
Tuesday 5th March 1957
Duller, mildish.
Mrs Bearcroft. Laundry. Alys down to breakfast in dressing gown but in bed rest of the day. Eva in, sat in passage talking to Alys in bed. I had to get tomato tin. Mollie Hadow in. Ravioli (with mince). Nigel doing wall. Phil phoned (tins wrong size). “The Archaeologist”, Kathleen Kenyon on Jericho 10.30.
Wednesday 6th March 1957
Dull. Rain a.m. Mild.
Managed to keep Alys in bed all day (except down in dressing gown for supper). Met Mrs Hill. Baked fish. Nigel doing wall. Phil phoned from Bicky and spoke to Alys re. tin boxes. Eva in a.m. and brought jonquils for Alys and Phil‘s laundry. Ironed roller towel. “Job For The Boy”, Dennis Driscoll, North Country.
Lamey’s “murderess” hen blackbird building in bush outside Phil‘s lathe room.
“Eyebrows” sang nearly full song in orchard.
Thursday 7th March 1957
Mild and fair, some sun, some rain.
Mrs Bearcroft, dining room. Alys down to breakfast in dressing gown. Eva came and sat long in bedroom re. Eve’s Art School. In BHN to meet Mrs Hill (extra day). Alys dressed, down to lunch (hot beef) and out for a little walk after 3. I rested on bed. Moved oak planks in garden.
Friday 8th March 1957
Fair. Showers, mild.
Alys to shops in BHN (I mended car seat first). Got apples from garage and stewed. Mrs Hill with Alys (liver). In BHN for Chablis and sausages. Before and after lunch. Mrs Bearcroft, kitchen. Rest p.m. (not to B.A.A.). Read 1898 diary to Alys (January, February, March, April). Phil home in Renault at 9.30 (after lecture and dinner).
Saturday 9th March 1957
Fair. Very mild.
To shops with Alys in BHN; I walked back with potatoes and bap. Mrs Bearcroft came. Phil and Nigel found worm in lots of wood in loft (from Layton) and brought it down for bonfire. Shepherds pie lunch. Sawed oak. Alys to High Street. Phil‘s tape recorder, jazz concert. “Beyond”, Lydia Ragosin.
Memo:
5th Laundry.
8th N.F.T. stereoscopic cartoons.
9th Phil here.
6th Phil 2.15 – 3.30.
8th B.A.A. – Jewel Tower of Westminster.
8th Phil “Papworth Clinic” 5.30 – 8.30.
8th Festival Hall, “Birds in Britain”.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 13th.
Sunday 10th March 1957
Some drizzle. Very, very mild.
Phil piled wormy wood and in p.m. lit it. Enormous bonfire. I wrote Kitty, and to post. Phil did his 5 tins with Nigel‘s electric buffer on veranda till dark. Kitty phoned. Ravioli. “Sir Frances Younghusband”, Tibet and Federation faith.
Monday 11th March 1957
Very mild. Dullish.
Mrs Bearcroft. Phil walked to shops for paint. Alys in BHN, and then to Eva‘s. I walked to get brushes (after washing clothes). Tired. Mrs Hill, steak and chips. Rest. Phil to Eva and then worked. Nigel in 5 and they Rentokil’ed desk on veranda. Alys to Cattle’s. Cold mince and salad, meringues. “The Pier”, James Forsyth.
Tuesday 12th March 1957
Very warm. Fair.
Alys and Phil in Frégate to Mrs Hills and Pinner for Rentokil. I washed shawl. Cleaned up garage, sawdust. Alys met Mrs Hill in BHN. Pork chops. Phil worked, and painted tins. I Rentokil’ed orange crate. Sausages and mash, fruit salad. Talk between U.S. man and here re. Nasser and Gaza.
Wednesday 13th March 1957
Fine, warm.
Alys and Phil and Frégate to Ealing to take tape recorder. Brett here. I had scrap lunch and to 119 Bickenhall Mansions 1.14. Rest. Alys came in at 4. To R.A.I., very boring lecture. Laurie, Lois and I supper Lyons. Slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions. “The Stalin Myth”.
Ship building strike start 16th.
“Eyebrows” hurt foot (claw).
14th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 14th March 1957
Fair.
Alys phoned card from Kitty. So went to meet her (Kit) at Kings Cross (by 11.38). Back to Bicky, and lunch, ham, tomatoes. Kit away to hairdo, Hampstead at 1.40. Out for eggs in Crawford Street Stores. “Carrington, V.C.” play 3.30. Out for ice cream 6. “India and the Balance of Power”, discussion.
Friday 15th March 1957
Fair, dullish.
Mrs Kertin cleaned 3/6. I also did cleaning – carpet. To Fern’s for 2lb coffee. Washed curtain. Lunch. Washed cloths. 4.24 to Northwood. Phil and Nigel clearing out (Phil had been to Ealing for Grundig in a.m.). Alys did bacon, eggs and mushrooms, supper.
Saturday 16th March 1957
Dull, fair, mild.
With Phil to look at tables, Hedge’s, and Pinner. Cold beef and chicory salad. Phil and Nigel bought 15/– legs of table. Alys and I to shops and Cook re. battery BHN a.m. I BHN to see Eve’s drawings for St Martin’s, and shops. Short rest. Phil painting boxes and Rentokil new table. Alys made very good fish cakes, Bruxelles chocolate.
Memo:
Phil holiday here 9th – 24th.
13th R.A.I. Excavations at Silchester, G. C. Boon.
15th Mrs Kertin 10.
14th Kitty Kings Cross.
Ship building strike all week.
20th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 17th March 1957
Rain. Dark.
Breakfast 8.45. Phil in Renault to Aldeburgh, taking Eve (Yacht Club meeting). Put buttons on coat (dark grey). Defrosted Fridge (Alys did kettle way). Eva came re. Eve’s drawings. Phil home 10.20.
Monday 18th March 1957
Perfect a.m. Rain p.m.
Eva came with drawings and took me to 10.30 train. Bus to Tottenham Court Road and to St Martin’s School of Art. Left Eve’s drawings and application form. To Bicky for lunch. Polished furniture. 3.36 to Northwood. Alys met me in BHN 4.11. Eva and Eve at 6.50. Chicken fricassee, mushrooms, peas. Real oranges, jelly. Tape recorder!!!
Tuesday 19th March 1957
Dull. Mildish.
Took Alys to station 10.30 (for Kitty). To Bank and Jones’. Then Jumble Sale things, Assembly Hall. Got blouse 2/6. Mrs Hill. Took watches to Wright’s, Northwood Hills. Home. Lunch with Phil, liver and bacon. Phil and Nigel doing bench (bought Saturday 15/–). I mended cushion and back of car seat. Met Alys 5.18. Kippers. Phil to Berry‘s with recorder for “High Society”.
Wednesday 20th March 1957
Dullish.
Eva came. Alys and I to Mrs Hills to ask her to change to tomorrow. Phil to lunch with Ernest Vernor Miles. I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Train with Phil to Marylebone. Rest till 3. To Maple’s secondhand furniture – gateleg tables. On to British Academy. Phil “oesophageal” lecture. At 5.15 to National Cinema 3/-, “Stella Dallas” at 6.10. Silent. Goldwyn 1925. Home to supper at 8.15. Slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Queen Mary sailed with Admiralty tugs.
Railway strike threatened, settled 5% increases.
“Eyebrows” lame, rheumatism?
Thursday 21st March 1957
Fine.
To Harrods re. auctions and to an auction. 73 bus to get coffee, Fern’s. To Library. Lunch, ham and tomato. Bought flat slippers, Tottenham Court Road. Top cupboard. Washed hold-all. Opened cushion (olive green velveteen) and down and feathers into pillow case. 8.11 train, Colliver Fisher up. Talked. Worm in round Coromandel table.
Friday 22nd March 1957
Very fine.
To meet Mrs Hill in BHN. Eva came. Ironed mats and new “jumble” blouse. Roast pork, gooseberry tart. Phil cut lots of oak planks up with electric saw. I fed them to him. Made pockets for coat and ironed. Sausages and mashed potatoes, grapefruit. Phil in work room. Eve at 6 with records. “Any Questions?”
Saturday 23rd March 1957
Fine, warm.
Phil working. Alys and I to shops. I got bread and to Boots. Back in Derek‘s car. Cold pork, tomato salad. Bonfire of white table. Eva came and all sat on veranda. Phil arranging his workshop, motors, electricity on new bench. Prawns in butter, Jazz concert and Jelly Roll Morton, “High Society” on tape recorder.
Memo:
18th Eve’s 17th birthday – gave her £2 and ginger chocolates Meltis 3/6.
Eva and Eve to supper, Teddy to Cornwall.
19th Alys meets Kitty, lunch.
20th “Kingdom of Ends”, British Academy..
24th Charing Cross Hotel 11 a.m. 3rd Programme meeting.
Bermuda meeting, Eisenhower and Macmillan ends.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 27th.
“Eyebrows” still lame, took sultana from hand on sill on veranda.
Sunday 24th March 1957
Dull. Mild.
Phil finishing up his work room fixtures. Mended things. Made mousse (chocolate), too much liquid. Grilled chops, French beans (Frood). Eva drove Eve over. She stayed till Phil went 4.40 (he took her home) to Ipswich. Fed “Eyebrows” on veranda. Cold bacon. Newspapers.
Monday 25th March 1957
Dullish. Cool.
Mrs Bearcroft. Mrs Cattle in. Alys to meet Mrs Hill. Eva to lunch – scrambled eggs. I to get bread and took Mrs Hill. Cut out and made up petticoat, grey. Alys had pain in the evening. Ate only a bacon sandwich.
Tuesday 26th March 1957
Fair. Some sun. Mild.
Alys all right. Mrs Bearcroft came. I to Eva‘s in BHN with Phil‘s laundry and the pictures to be framed. Alys to station 12.12, took sandwiches (to Aldeburgh). I left eiderdown at cleaners. Began making cover for old chair (smoking room) from settee cover.
Wednesday 27th March 1957
Dull. Showery.
Met Mrs Hill 11.15. Also saw Eva. 12.54 to town (after sausages, Mrs Hill). Tidied up; feathers. At 4.45 to Waterloo (wrote lettercards to Kitty, and Alys). 5.30 for 6 Film Theatre, “Arrowsmith”, Ronald Coleman, Helen Hayes. Back 8.25. Scrambled eggs. Slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Read “Arrowsmith”.
27th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 28th March 1957
Dull, mild.
To Harrods re. gift tokens for Blennerhassett. Selfridge’s for washing up gadgets. Curry sandwiches, lunch. Top cupboards. Rest. To Waterloo 5.30. Queue “Siegfried” (1923), boring (my mistake – meant to see “Wonder Man”, Danny Kaye). Straight Northwood, Colliver Fisher up. Bacon.
Friday 29th March 1957
Fair, mild.
Met Mrs Hill. Picked daffodils for us and Mrs Hill and Mrs Bearcroft. Grand National won by Sundew. “Eyebrows” sang on veranda and took sultanas from my hands. Very stiff.
Saturday 30th March 1957
Fine.
Defrosted Fridge. Chair cover and “The Countryside in March”. “Eyebrows” better. Walked to Boots. Steak and kidney; eve pudding. To plays. BHN to get milk (milkman none). Chair cover and “The Archers”. “The Trial of Madame Bovary”, Flaubert. “The Trip to Bountiful”, Horton Foote.
Memo:
24th Sunday Phil to Ipswich. End of holiday.
16th Alys to Aldeburgh.
26th and 27th Arrowsmith. Phil to 119 Bickenhall Mansions?
“Wonder Man”, Danny Kaye 30th to 3rd.
“Eyebrows” all right. Came again at times.
Sunday 31st March 1957
Fine.
Teddy and Eva came. Told of Eve being accepted by St Martin’s! Took plants. Did chair cover. Machined. Wrote lettercard to Alys and postcard to Mrs Hill. Wrote R.A.I. application for Summer Meeting, Exeter. Ravioli supper.
Essendon
Monday 1st April 1957
Dull, cool.
Up 7.30. Felt giddy. Took Eno‘s Fruit Salts. Mrs Bearcroft came and at 11.5 she and I to station. My bag on her cycle. 1.27 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Out for milk (for Phil in Fridge). Lunch. To Kings Cross for 2.21. To Hatfield 2/10 single. 2.51 met by Barbara and Kitty; to 26 Glebe Cottages, Essendon. Adam (their tabby cat). Talk, supper.
Tuesday 2nd April 1957
Fair to fine. Mild.
Barbara away for holiday. I for walk by School Lane. Cold mutton. Rest p.m. Read “Madam, Will You Talk?” Cold bacon. Grapefruit. Diary 1898 till 9.30.
Wednesday 3rd April 1957
Dullish. Mild.
Mrs Milton came. Kit and I on bus to Hertford. Shopped. Back to lunch. Curry. Cheese and biscuits. Rest. Bacon, baked apples. Diary 1899 till 9.45. “Frankly Speaking”, Prince Chula of Thailand.
Thursday 4th April 1957
Warm. Fine.
Nurse Simpson in for coffee. Handy sent Ronald Knox’s Bible. I out to post lettercard to Alys. “Mad Martha” and Sandy cat talked over hedge. Adam played with it. Rest. Kippers. Crossword. More diary, ‘99.
Northwood
Friday 5th April 1957
Warm, fine.
Forgot brown bread on my tray! Packed bag. Kit and I bus to Hertford 10.7 (my bag in basket on wheels). 10.40 Green Line 715 (3/2) to Great Portland Street. 1 bus Baker Street. 119 Bickenhall Mansions at 12. Scrambled eggs. Rest. 3.27 to Northwood. Walked up. Alys and Humphey there! Garden. Bath Chap. Took Humphey round block.
Saturday 6th April 1957
Cool. Some sun. Very windy.
Alys to shops in BHN. Washed clothes. I brushed Humphey and in garden with him. Mince. “Invitation to Murder”, Alington, good play. Walk with Humphey, Dene Road on lead. “Loraine” (sausages and bacon) by Lionel Brown. Pork butcher’s daughter. Took Humphey walk at 9.
Memo:
1st to 5th at 119 Bickenhall Mansions, 2.21 Kings Cross, arrive Hatfield 2.51.
2nd Eiderdown back from cleaners, 7/6 to pay.
3rd Alys slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
5th Berry’s to 5 The Rest.
6th Barbara‘s holiday?
Phil at Ipswich Saturday and Sunday.
3rd Last of “Wonder Man”.
“Eyebrow’s” claw swollen. He sings on shelf.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 10th.
Sunday 7th April 1957
Fair, windy.
Alys took Humphey for a walk. I wrote to Kitty and post over 2 bridges with Humphey at 230. Pork chops in casserole with spaghetti and spinach (Frood, Wilson’s), potatoes in casserole. Machined chair cover. Teddy, Eva and Eve at 6, and talk re. house in Lee Road. Said I would give £2000 to mortgage. “The Moonstone”.
Monday 8th April 1957
Cold. Wind. Fair.
Eva phoned. Alys to meet Mrs Hill; Eva to lunch. Talked of houses. I wrote Ernest Vernor Miles re. mortgage. Walked to get brown bread. Ironed nightgowns. “The Gods are Jealous”, Lydia Ragosin.
Tuesday 9th April 1957
Cold and dull.
To Northwood Hills with Ella‘s clock and brooch (Phil) for safety catch. Did a lot to chair cover, machine in dining room. Alys to shops p.m. Omelette supper. “The Budget”, speech Thorneycroft, Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Wednesday 10th April 1957
Cold. Dull.
With Alys to station. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Phil there! Out to lunch, La Ronde. Phil to Papworth. I phoned Alys. To Library. To Harrods. Got gift coupons £4.10.0 for Blennerhasset. Home. Rest. To R.A.I. 5 – 6 Lois and Laurie. To B.E.A., sandwiches and tomato juice 2/6. The Television “Dodsworth”, 2/– and gramophone history. Home 10.50.
12th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 11th April 1957
Cold. Some sun. Showers.
Phone Alys at Eva‘s. To Evans’. Bought “Wendy” wool 20 oz. Got No. 10 4/6 at Manchester Square. Walked home. Lunch, pork pies 10d, cocoa and cream. To Classic 1.15 1/10, “For Whom The Bell Tolls”, Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions and Alys and Eva appeared; re. Art Schools and Eve. All to Northwood by 4.14 train. Eve bu next train. Home by BHN (Eastbury Road). Kippers.
Friday 12th April 1957
Fair, cold.
Sewed chair cover. Alys took me to 11 train (or 15). On to Edgware Road station. To Bank. Got tomatoes and lettuce there 1/-. Lunch 119 Bickenhall Mansions. To Fern’s. (Wrote Kitty and Blennerhassett with tokens £4.10). Phoned Ernest Vernor Miles re. mortgage. Walked from Fern’s to 11 Chandos Street. B.A.A., Mrs Weske from Virginia, Miss Usher. Back 6.15.
Saturday 13th April 1957
Fair, fine.
To Selfridge’s (no hat patterns). Bought Bissell £4.2.6. Lunch. Put “contact” on Japan tray. To Marylebone 3.48. Walked up. Phil at lathe. Eva came, told her of Ernest Vernor Miles’ talk re. Lee Road house. “The Long Memory”, wrongful imprisonment.
Memo:
10th Phil 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
10th R.A.I. Saxon Cathedral, Winchester Quirk. “Dodsworth”.
12th B.A.A. An early Yu Xian vase in British Museum, P. E. Lasko.
11th and 12th strike, Cornwall.
12th Gift coupons to Blennerhasset.
Teddy in Gibraltar till 11th.
Sunday 14th April 1957
Very fine. Cool in wind.
Phil painted boxes on veranda. He took ciné pictures of house and Alys and me. Cold pork and salads. Phil had tea, and away in Frégate about 5.30. Some weeding in garden. Alys and I in BHN to Berry’s with washing. Eva and Eve and friend at cinema. Sat with Teddy on seat.
Monday 15th April 1957
Fine.
Eva came and in loft re. furniture. Mrs Hill. I walked to cleaners with chair cover. Drove Eva home. BHN, Dene Road. Alys to town for ticket to Aldeburgh for Eve. Eve to tea at 6, when Alys back from town. Mr Bearcroft came to see garden. Teddy and Eva with Humphey after vets. “The Plymouth Adventure”.
Tuesday 16th April 1957
Fine. Mild.
Dustmen early. Sewed anti-slip on rug. Laundry. Alys to shops. Egg salad. Eva in LPH Rover at 1.15. Took us to Rex, “Anastasia” 2/9 Ingrid Bergman, Yul Brynner, Helen Hayes, Martita Hunt. Eva took us home.
Wednesday 17th April 1957
Fine, mild.
Alys took me to 10.16 train. Got ham 3/6 and butter and rolls. 119 Bickenhall Mansions. At about 11.15, Phil came. Had coffee and lunch. Away to Papworth 12.45. I to Evans’ for knitting needles 1.9. Liver sandwich 1/6. Chocolate Dorlon’s 5/6. 3.36 to Northwood, BHN up (left by Alys). Began cap knitting.
“Eyebrows” sang loud song on mat, veranda door.
Great Tit feeds mate with nut from me.
Thursday, 18th April 1957
Fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. In BHN to High Street. Bought little table for Alys 15/–. Met Mrs Hill. Picked narcissi. Steak and kidney; apple and pastry. Wrote postcard to Kitty and to pillarbox. Cistern overflow. Nigel in loft to see ballcock. Knitted cap. Read D. H. Lawrence’s letters.
Friday 19th April 1957
Perfect.
BHN to Berry’s with table for Alys and books (Ing). James on leave from Isle of Man. Saw report on house, Lee Road. Got petrol 13/–. Gave bone meal to roses. Unpicked chair cover. Washed hair. Worked on wool hat. Boiled marmalade down.
Saturday 20th April 1957
Fine, lovely.
At 9.30 BHN to shops. At 10.45 Teddy, Eva and James with Humphey. Left him here, and on to Aldeburgh and Thorpeness. Humphey wouldn’t eat except bone (pork). Walk over bridges in p.m. Put him to bed in box in coal room as no basket. “The Hoffmann Episode”, grim German lynched, innocent.
Memo:
“Anastasia” all week.
18th till 23rd James’ leave.
20th Humphey for two nights.
Alys to Aldeburgh 17th and Eve too.
Phil’s tie, cleaners. Paid.
24th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 21st April 1957
Fine. Overcast a bit.
Took Humphey along Kewferry Road and path. Posted lettercard to Alys. Read “Noble Essences”. Rest on bed p.m. Humphey killed a baby (robin?) bird. Darned stockings.
Monday 22nd April 1957
Rain, then fair.
Took Humphey for walk in rain by path. And again in p.m. (he chased a car). Weeded a lot. Eva a cold at Aldeburgh. Teddy and James in Rover at 8 and took Humphey home.
Tuesday 23rd April 1957
Perfect.
Mrs Bearcroft. Sent Eva apple tea. Mrs Hill, liver and bacon. After lunch (our 1st rhubarb) to Cook’s re. manifold docks. Left BHN and walked back. Bonemeal to roses and compost earth to various plants. Mrs Hill brought brooch 5/–.
Wednesday 24th April 1957
Warm, fine.
Brett for last time. Waited for Mr Jones’ car to station. 10.15 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Shopped. Phil at 11.45. Lunch and coffee. Away 12.45. I to Bank and Library, Selfridge’s. Walked to Handy’s. Walked to Kodak, Regent Street (but bird show at Kingsway), Selfridge’s (tapers). Bus 1 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Finished pillow feathers. Slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
26th and 27th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 25th April 1957
Much colder. Dull.
Sewed new pillow up. 10.51 Northwood. Walked up. Mrs Bearcroft there, Cozy lit. Chair cover unpicking to turn it. Wrote lettercard to Alys and posted. 10.30 “Countryside in April”.
Friday 26th April 1957
Dull, cold wind.
Mrs Hill walked up. Lunch 12.30. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Changed cushion covers. Brigeon? Out 4.30 to Waterloo. Queue for “The General” (locomotive), silent film, Buster Keaton, 6 – 8. Home by 8.15 “Any Questions?”
Saturday 27th April 1957
Dull. Fine evening.
Joined coaches (3) 10 South Kensington. To St Albans. Baillie Reynolds in Abbey. Walked to Waterend Barn Restaurant (lunch, Struthers). Walked to London Gate Verulamium. Dr Corder and Hypocaust and Theatre. Coaches to Gorhambury House, Earl of Verulam. Tea and talk. Back to London 7.15.
Memo:
27th R.A.I. Spring Meeting. St Albans 10.
25th, 26th “The General”, locomotive, Buster Keaton.
23rd, 24th Wuthering Heights.
24th Phil 12 Bicky.
Sunday 28th April 1957
Fair, overcast.
Back to 12 Grove Road about 11.15. Called at Cook’s for BHN and drove up. Blackbirds very pleased, especially “Eyebrows”, came and sang full song on my shelf. Did chair cover. Lit Cozy stove. Mince lunch. “What is an Educated Man?” Noel Annan (Provost of King’s College), Stuart Hampshire – Oxford, Medawar, F.R.S. “Landslide”, Ugo Betti, Law courts.
Monday 29th April 1957
Sunny, lovely.
Mrs Bearcroft, my room. Met Mrs Hill (BHN). Dyed grey “idlers” dark grey, with black dye and meths. With birds on veranda a lot. Postcard to Lois. Sewed chair cover. “The Death of Grass”.
Tuesday 30th April 1957
Sunny. Cold wind.
Postcard from Alys – coming today, all three. BHN to get haddock fillets. Chair cover to cleaners. Mrs Bearcroft. Did work did work on chair cover for little chair. Alys arrived in JLN about 6.10. Eva over for book and “The Archers” (she and Eve came back with Alys from Aldeburgh).
Wednesday 1st May 1957
Sunny. Warmer.
In BHN to meet Mrs Hill. Pork lunch. Eva came in (Humphey operated on). Machined chair cover. 1.42 to town. To get herbal tea, paid electric bill. To R.A.I. at 4:40, “housewife” to Lois and Sylvia. Summer meeting. Talk. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions, “The Archers”. 7.42 Northwood. BHN up. “Royal Academy Dinner”, speeches.
3rd 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 2nd May 1957
Dull.
BHN to Jones‘; posted trousers for Alys. Took 3 grey woollies to Refugee Reception, and £2 cheque (Barclays) for refugees. Alys in p.m. to shops. She boiled bacon. Picked narcissi and Alys forget-me-nots and aubretia. Finished little chair cover. Alys phoned Helen and Mrs Gordon.
Friday 3rd May 1957
Mild. Fair. Fine.
To 119 Bickenhall Mansions 10.30. After lunch to Staines and Army & Navy for egg whisks. Got one Staines 1/11 and Army & Navy 5/11 (rustable!) To Fern’s 1lb coffee. Rest 20 minutes. Up in attic, brushed filthy armchair and bolster. Brought bolster down. Tried to clean it and my waterproof. Machined cushion cover. Slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Saturday 4th May 1957
Dull, mild.
Mrs Kertin in. To Selfridge’s. Got 2 pillowcases 5/11 each. Put feathers from old bolster case into them. Washed wall (stain to ceiling). 6.36 train to Northwood. Dolly Willis staying weekend. Cold bacon, chocolate mousse.
Memo:
30th Laundry.
29th Teddy in Scotland. 3rd Teddy to Isle of Man.
3rd Dolly Willis for weekend.
1st R.A.I. Exeter, Ralegh Radford.
Dr Baker (ears).
Sunday 5th May 1957
Cold, some sun. Mostly dull.
In garden, honeysuckle and watering mint. Eve came (with Teddy for pea-sticks) and cleaned Alys’ car (5/–). Wrote Phil (for Hungarian’s letter) to post. Talked to Eve. Rest. Bacon and mushrooms. “The Sepoy Rising of 1857”.
Monday 6th May 1957
Fine. Cold wind.
Alys and Dolly in Dolly‘s car to shop and meet Mrs Hill. After lunch Dolly away to her home. Alys in JLN to the Gordon’s, Ashridge. I to Bearcroft’s and to get sweet peas at Vincent‘s.
Tuesday 7th May 1957
Rain p.m.
Alys ulcer in gums. Eva took me to station. To Army & Navy to change egg whisk. Eve came 119 Bickenhall Mansions at 5.30. Supper. To County Hall. Schools’ show of drawings. Films. To Northwood at 9. Eva and Teddy met Eve. I in BHN. Lighting up time 9.2.
Wednesday 8th May 1957
Cold, grey.
Eva came. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions a.m. Phoned Ernest Vernor Miles. To upholsterer, Holliman. After lunch to R.A.I. Tea 4. Grimes elected President. Corder on Roman-British pottery kilns. Sylvia Freer supper with Laurie, Lois and me. Hong Kong Restaurant 18/9. To 12 Grove Road by 9.10.
Thursday 9th May 1957
(no weather)
Alys Aldeburgh (12). To Northwood station before 11. Mrs Bearcroft, Phil‘s bedroom. Len brought JLN back. I to get stamps. Sent Laurie 6/8 and wrote Doris inviting her to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Wrote Kit, Frank Archer! Wrote Editor, “The Bird Garden”. Mr Bearcroft 7.30 till 9.
Friday 10th May 1957
Fine. Hot sun.
Took cover material to loft. Met Mrs Hill, got mince and fillets. Met Eva. Posted letter to Kit. Picked narcissi and lilies of the valley. BHN to meet Alys at 4.50. Stood on bridge, but missed her; she Colliver Fisher. Mr Bearcroft 7.30 – 9. Good “Any Questions?” “Good Morning Midnight”, Selma Vaz Dias.
Saturday 11th May 1957
Sun and showers. Mild.
Mrs Bearcroft came, and Mr Bearcroft from 9.30 – 1, digging. Alys and I to vote County Council, and shops. I walked home. (Teddy to Gibraltar). Rest p.m., then weeded front garden, tied daffodils. “Natural Causes”.
Memo:
7th Chair cover from cleaners, sending 7/6.
8th R.A.I. Annual General Meeting, Corder Roman-Britain pottery kilns.
10th B.A.A.
7th Eve, County Hall.
Teddy Gibraltar – 11th?
15th Alys and I 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 12th May 1957
Sun and heavy showers.
Wrote Cook’s cheque for manifold and posted. To Eva and Eve (Teddy in Gibraltar) at 4, till 7. “My Word” and “Take It From Here”. Home 7 for “The Critics”. Mudd’s fish cakes.
Monday 13th May 1957
Sun and showers.
Eva in re. their “Argomatic” stove at Great Missenden. Alys to meet Mrs Hill. In garden, weeded and clipped privet. Began Income Tax papers and cleared out drawer, old cheques. Phil phoned. Doris Freer phone. Alys phoned Gertrude Chamberlain. “The Tortoise and the Hare”.
Tuesday 14th May 1957
Dull.
To 10.2 in BHN. To Handy’s, bought “War and Peace”, 15/–. Selfridge’s, hairnets. 119 Bickenhall Mansions to lunch. Rest till 3. To Holliman‘s re. chair. It will cost £8!!! Alys to 119 Bickenhall Mansions (bought wedding present, Laughton). Both home to Northwood 4.33. Weeded. Alys to Eva‘s. Mr Bearcroft 7.30 – 9, 6/–.
Wednesday 15th May 1957
Sun and wind.
Alys met Mrs Hill. I did washing. Cut out beret (dark grey). Gardened (front). After supper and “To Comfort Always”, we to station JLN. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions 8.9 slept there. “The Travellers – Square-rigged Ships”, Antony Head, Adrian Seligman, Eric Newby.
Thursday 16th May 1957
Thunder showers and sun.
Alys and I changed the sheets on both beds. 11.51 to Northwood and in JLN (left Colliver Fisher for 1/6) home. Mrs Bearcroft there. Alys brought Eva for lunch. Tinned meat and salad, yoghurt (Eva‘s). Phoned Ernest Vernor Miles re. Contracts, 48 Lee Road. Made beret. Ironed mats. Mr Bearcroft, garden 7.30 – 9.30.
Friday 17th May 1957
Dull. Cool.
Defrosted Fridge. Clipped privet hedge (half Cattle’s) front. Alys met Mrs Hill and again to shops. Eva came, Humphey died after operation yesterday. Alys and I for tea with Mrs Selden and saw television of Prince Phillip’s tour by him 5 – 5.50 “Round the World in Forty Minutes”. Mrs Griffiths and Elizabeth, Miss Shorland? Phil came in Frégate at 9:20.
Saturday 18th May 1957
Showers and sun.
I walked to get bread, BHN non-starter, and milk for London. Alys in JLN later. Phil to Cattle’s and for oil. Cold beef, salads, apple pie. Silver markings p.m. cream jugs from loft. Eva and Eve came. Washed my hair. Kedgeree, grapefruit.
Memo:
18th Mrs Hill week holiday. Scouts call for jumble.
Phil‘s holiday 2 weeks.
119 Bickenhall Mansions all week.
Sunday 19th May 1957
Fine.
Planted geraniums out, and thrift (bought by Alys). Phil to Berry’s, sherry and brought Eve back to lunch. Then they Bourne End, sailing? Alys drove me to 119 Bickenhall Mansions 2.45, arrived 3.30. Got drawers ready for Doris. Slept divan.
Monday 20th May 1957
Dull, cool.
To shops for food. Doris came about 3.30. Crosswords and talk. She phoned Sylvia at 1 and 2 friends. Cold meats – ham and pressed beef and salad and cream cheese.
Tuesday 21st May 1957
Fair.
Alys phoned. Out with Doris to Chiltern Street, mirrors. Manchester Square, herbal tea for Doris. Selfridge’s, nylon brush. Doris to meet Sylvia, lunch. I home. Doris home 4. Tea. I to BBC for pamphlet (mental). Got veal cutlets 1/6 Maison France and tomatoes. Fried for supper. Doris met Sylvia again, supper 8.
Wednesday 22nd May 1957
Fair.
Doris out to find “Boccaccio” and time of film. Wally cleaned windows 10/–. Ironed muslin curtains. Boiled eggs at 12. At 12.30 to Classic, “The Man in Grey”, James Mason and Stewart Granger, Margaret Lockwood, Helen Hayes. Doris rest and to go with Sylvia to Flower Show. I to Sainsbury’s. Washed curtains.
Thursday 23rd May 1957
Fair.
Mrs Kertin cleaned. Out with Doris to Marks & Spencer’s. She there. I to Fern’s and Woolworth’s – petunias 1/–, Mesembryanthemum 1/–. Doris and I fishcakes and salad. Rests. I got Telegraph. “Finishing School”, Mildred Harbinson at 6. She and Doris to dine at Trocadero.
Friday 24th May 1957
Rain, cold. Windy.
Sylvia phoned, “getting a cold”. Doris and I to Royal Academy. Annigoni’s Prince Philip, very bad. 119 Bickenhall Mansions to lunch – cold fishcakes and salad. Rest. Sylvia came at 6.25 and spent evening with me as I colded; Doris 6.37 to Northwood and evening with Alys, Phil and 3 Berry’s. Sylvia and I veal stew (Frood’s, 5/6 (2)) and peas, Fropax, cheese, mousses. Doris back 10.
Saturday 25th May 1957
Fine.
Doris cleaned flat! I to shops. Sylvia at 12, and they to buy mirror. Cold meats and salads. Doris and Sylvia to park p.m. I shopped Crawford Street Post Office, grocer – bacon, fruit, sausages, ravioli, tomato tin, Parmesan 1/9. Washed chair cover and ravioli supper. Wheatgerm Ribena cream. “The Archers” 8 – 9. Knitted. Sylvia away about 10.
Memo:
20th Doris Freer to stay with me 119 Bickenhall Mansions (p.m.).
23rd Wally 10 – 10.30. Harbinson 6.30.
24th Freer’s; me to Northwood.
25th Sylvia “Story of Three Caves”, Shearer.
119 Bickenhall Mansions till 30th, back to Northwood.
Sunday 26th May 1957
Fine. Very windy.
Doris to Sylvia‘s (Old Brompton Road) for day. After we had cold meat lunch here. I Northwood at 3.30. Sat in hut. Alys and Phil planted Mesembryanthemum and petunias and also cyclamen (Eva’s). Supper. To Eva‘s and then 9.27 to Baker Street. Doris at 10.30.
Monday 27th May 1957
Fine. Windy.
No milk, at 8.30 to get some. Doris to Africa House and lunch with Sylvia; not back till 5.30. I to Davis’ and Herbal and Holliman‘s. After lunch, emptied cushion (Chester) and washed cover. Sausages (Frood) and tomatoes, grilled. Doris phoned Sylvia and Mill Hill.
Tuesday 28th May 1957
Perfect.
Doris got paper. Davis called for 2 blankets. Then I out to Boots and Harrison’s (left watch). I for paint and supper. Doris altered skirt. Eggs and bacon, mousse. Vickers re. carpet cleaning. Doris taxi to Lois at 3.40. I to get milk at Marylebone. Washed little cushion.
Wednesday 29th May 1957
Cool.
Looked over big tallboy’s drawer. Washed Panama hat and Doris‘ towel. Fish croquette and potato salad. Sewed Barnard stuff on cushion. 7, National Film Theatre Free Cinema 3/– “The Singing Street”, “Wakefield Express”, “Nice Time” Piccadilly at night, “Every Day Except Christmas”, Covent Garden.
Thursday 30th May 1957
Fair. Coolish.
To Davis’, Harrison’s; then walked to Fern’s by Mortimer Street. Bus back. Bank. Chicken and mushrooms croquette 1/6. To Selfridge’s and Druce (no luck). Unpicked Doz’s things. Ravioli. 8.6 Northwood. Alys met me (Eve to supper). Mr Bearcroft, garden. Teddy and Eva at 9.45.
Friday 31st June 1957
Perfect, warm.
Breakfast 9.30. Alys to have hair done, Northwood Hills 9.15. Phil a walk and then work. Mrs Bearcroft. Mrs Hill 11.15. Alys took me to Cook’s. I drove BHN back (new battery). Got hose out. Phil to hospital (near Watford), Petworth. Garden and hut. Eva in hut (Teddy at pub). Ham, peaches.
Saturday 1st June 1957
Perfect.
Alys to shops JLN. I walked to get bread, chops 6/9, cream. Teddy took me back in LPH (Rover). Eva back with Alys and they to Watford (bag for James). I grilled chops. By 1.30 Alys back. Phil gave her a Pye wireless. Polished with drill motor. Weeded front garden. Eve to tea and diabolo.
Memo:
28th Doris for blankets 10? Carpets 2.15.
Tamey feeding young at Sime’s. Only one here.
Murderess feeding young at Griffiths’.
Sunday 2nd June 1957
Hottest this year 76°F.
Moved long bench, and front green hut with Phil. Picked a few roses (all there were). Hot chicken stew. Phil packed. Darned socks. Eva in. Tape recorder took our voices (some unbeknownst). Shock at affected sound! Phil away at 5.30 or so in Renault Frégate. “Scrapbook for 1928”. Oil in ears.
Monday 3rd June 1957
Some thunderstorms, then cold.
Wrote James and enclosed Postal Order for £3. To pay shops, High Street for Alys. She there at 10, after Dr Baker’s. Mrs Bearcroft. Alys met Mrs Hill, baked fish. To Marks & Spencer‘s at Watford in JLN. Rest. Gardened, front. Put verbena in. Alys phoned Kitty re. going 4th, and Eva. Phil phoned.
Tuesday 4th June 1957
Rain and fair. Cool.
Mrs Bearcroft did Phil’s bedroom ready for Eve. Eva came. Alys away about 11.30 in JLN for Essendon (took ham for lunch there). I had chicken. Sewed on skirt all p.m. and took it to cleaners at 4.50 (BHN). In garden (front) tidying. Mr Bearcroft 7.30 – 9.15. “English Speaking Union Dinner”, Prince Philip and Whitney and Lord Ismay speeches.
Wednesday 5th June 1957
Fair, cool.
Met Mrs Hill. Hot boiled bacon. Washed blouses. Hose on back and front. Teddy and Eva came for coathangers in AYX box. Teddy took it up to loft. Mr Bearcroft, pea sticks. “The Alanbrooke Diaries”. “Call the Tune”.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 6th, 7th.
Thursday 6th June 1957
Fine, warm.
To Dr Baker at 9.30. He said no wax in ears! Met Eva. Ironed 2 blouses. Warmed up chicken and beans. 1.57 to town. 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Out to further United Dairies for milk. Allen’s self-service for oranges. Took Abbey National book in. Eva and Eve at 5.30; ate buckling here. I packed up blanket. They looked at Sargent linens. “Radio Link” – U.S.A., Canada, Australia, Germany, France, England (Senator Knowland).
Friday 7th June 1957
Fair.
Took blanket to post 2/6 (for Eva). Prepared room. Called for watch-bracelet 16/– Harrison‘s. Ideal Carpet Cleaners at 12.45. Finished 1.20. Carpet and 4 rugs and chair. Cheque £5.10.0 to John Vickers. Lettercard to Alys. To get butter Allen’s. On to Waterloo, National Film Theatre. “Blackmail” 6.15 very good, early (Hitchcock) silent and talkie, 1st one.
Saturday 8th June 1957
Fine, showers.
11.5 to Northwood. In garden. Cohen‘s fish rissole and salad. Garden, and rest. Play at 6, 3rd Programme, “A Father and His Fate”, Ivy Compton-Burnett, Norman Shelley, Beatrix Lehmann. Hot steak and kidney and apple crunchy. (To shops BHN at 4.30). Defrosted Fridge.
Memo:
5th James 20th birthday.
Alys to Kitty’s.
7th 12.30 carpets and chair.
10th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 9th June 1957
Cold showers and sun.
Loft for case to send “Haigson’s” Northumberland in. Cleaned up ottoman and yellow cupboard for Eva. Threw away honey. Ironed and washed blouses. Lit Cozy stove 7.30.
Monday 10th June 1957
Cool, showery.
Wrote Nicholas Ridley. James called. Posted to Debden, Essex. Did laundry. Steak and kidney and pastry lunch (made pastry 12.30). About 2.45 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Put cover on Doz’s chair and linen in it. “Present Laughter”, Noël Coward, John Gielgud.
Tuesday 11th June 1957
Cool.
Chair came from Holliman‘s. Waited all day for railway to send for Dorothy Banard’s chair, they never came. 2 blankets from Davis‘, paid 7/–. Out to Bank and Post Office. Made cushion and threw away bolster cover. 5.8 from Marylebone. Supper. Mr Bearcroft, garden. Eve and “John” called (motorbike). Eve and James came at 8.45 re. tomorrow.
Wednesday 12th June 1957
Hot sun. Cool wind.
Mrs Bearcroft came but went again. Mrs Hill, BHN, sausages. Weeded but too hot. Sewed black and white blouse. Alys came JLN from Aldeburgh at 4. Sat on veranda. Cold bacon. Eve in about 12 (film, “The Teahouse of the August Moon”).
14th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 13th June 1957
Perfect.
Breakfast 8.30. Arnold‘s van with Harry and Jack came with Phil‘s rails, 9 a.m. Alys took Eve to station. Railway brought Dorothy Barnard’s chair 10 (damaged). To shops BHN High Street. Got petrol and oil 13.3. Kippers, lunch. Mrs Cattle took us over her house (Nigel‘s chest of drawers). Alys rested, slept. I wrote Ernest Vernor Miles and Doris postcard and Station Master re. chair, Income Tax papers. Alys met Eve 5.45 John and she in hut. Gardened.
Friday 14th June 1957
Fine, hot.
Eve slept on, but had to go by early train 8.16 for 90 test. I to Dr Baker for cramp prescripti=on. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions 11.30. Lunch. To B.A.A., 11 Chandos Street – Annual General Meeting, R. Taylor Prize Essay, Ian Jessiman, The Piscina. Home for “The Archers”. Sewed saddlebag chair all evening. Phoned Lois; Eric answered.
Saturday 15th June 1957
Hot sun, 80°F, breeze.
Staines for Dutch fireproof mat 3/3. Lost raffia bag. Lunch. Rest and 2 plays 2 – 3. Took 3,51 to Northwood, Colliver Fisher up. Alys very busy as James at OMQ. He to supper, and Eve out with John till about 1 a.m. “Look to the Lady”, Allingham.
Memo:
16th Lois phoned.
11th Laundry.
19th Chair ready? Holliman’s.
11th Davis.
12th Berry’s furniture to Aldeburgh.
12th Alys back here and Eve to stay.
14th B.A.A. Annual General Meeting – R. Taylor Prize Essay. Jessiman – Piscina.
18th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 16th June 1957
Very hot. 85°F, nice breeze.
Mended Japanese sunshade. Eve slept till 12.30 about. James at 1.45. Hot beef, spinach, pineapple and mandarin compôte. Alys and Eve and James in hut. I on bed. Alys took James to station for Liverpool Street station 4.45. Eve out with Peter(?) Alys and I in hut 8.30. “Maid in Waiting”. Picked mixed bunch and roses. Hose on.
Monday 17th June 1957
Very, very hot, 85°F. Breeze a.m.
Mrs Bearcroft. Alys took Eve and met Mrs Hill. I took Hodgson books to station paid 9/1. Station Master called p.m. re. chair damage. Alys took Mrs Hill back and to Watford Marks & Spencer’s. She met Eve, 5.45. Sewed blouse. Mr Bearcroft in evening.
Tuesday 18th June 1957
Very, very hot, 80°F.
Alys took Eva to 9.15 train. I got £100 to put in Bank (for Abbey National) from Saving Certificates (£11.5.0 interest.). To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. At 2.45 R.W.S. Conduit Street Gallery. Grace English Memorial Exhibition (Miss Walton), Dr Joseph. Rest. Supper. Sewed saddlebag chair.
Wednesday 19th June 1957
Cooler, dull.
To Abbey National and paid in £100 from National Provincial Bank. To Bank, and Webster & Girling. Got 3 return tickets Exeter £2.14.0. To Library. UnpIcked blonde lace, sewed chair. 5.8 from Marylebone. Alys met me and Eve. Gardened.
U.N. Committee; report on Hungary.
Thursday 20th June 1957
Cool. Sunny.
Mrs Bearcroft. With Alys to shops and called at Haverly‘s re. chairs. Alys met Mrs Hill. Cut branches and ivy. Rest. Wrote Merriman. Cut up boiled chicken. Alys met Eve, and then they both met Sylvia Freer 7.15. Sherry, tomato juice in hut. Supper kitchen; sat in hut till 9.30. Mr Bearcroft tidied front hedge.
Friday 21st June 1957
Perfect.
Up 7.30. Only in garden all day. Alys took Eve to station 7.55. Washed things, moved hose about. Picked strawberries. Rest p.m. Alys to meet Eve who had chicken, and raspberries (stewed) in hut 6.30. Eve out at 8 with John to Pat’s and then Harefield till 1 a.m.
Saturday 22nd June 1957
Cool. Showers.
Mrs Bearcroft, kitchen. Alys to shops. Eve only up at 11.40, coffee only. I did Income Tax form. Hot ham and broad beans. Alys and I to Rex 1.45 – “Gone With The Wind”, Clark Gable, Vivian Leigh 2/9. Back 6.40. Eve with “John” at 7.10 to Rex and home at 12.45. “Seawife” (Seawyf and Biscuit).
Memo:
Mrs Rupert Kenross invitation.
18th 3 p.m. Grace English Memorial Exhibition R.W.S. Conduit Street. Opened by Lady George Scott (Molly Bishop).
22nd Haverly 12 – 1.
Sunday 23rd June 1957
Fine. Sunny.
Kitty phoned Alys asking her and Eve to Kings Langley. Picked roses and mended hose. Alys did steak with butter balls, strawberries and cream. Eve lay on grass by hut. Alys and Eve to George and Joy’s, JLN. I made cushion (Doz’s Tunis) and painted wrapper (Bruxelles). Tomato omelettes.
Monday 24th June 1957
Changeable. Rain after 6.
Eve slept till 8.50. Hurry for train. I to Dr Baker re. cramp (better). Alys to meet Kitty, Hampstead lunch. “Cruel Sea”. I to Jones’ and met Mrs Hill. Gardened – grass and hose. Alys and Eve at 6. Lit Cozy stove. Fillets plaice. Eva phoned.
Tuesday 25th June 1957
Fair, showers.
I with Alys and Eve to 9.2 train and to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. To Webster & Girling for reserved seats and to Harrison‘s re. watch (broken spring) and got Sissie’s. To Selfridge’s and Maples for stool. Lunch 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Sewed chair. 5.8 to Northwood. Alys met Eve and me. Teddy and Eva at 7.30 (from Aldeburgh). Fishcakes, strawberries and cream. Mr Bearcroft.
Wednesday 26th June 1957
Cool, windy.
Eva came in. I made her take £20 for the bed. Alys to town (taking sausages) to look for frock for Eve. I gardened and posted Income Tax claim. Defrosted Fridge. Alys back at 6 or so. Darned stockings. “The Vultures”.
29th Hottest since ‘47 (when 92°F).
Thursday 27th June 1957
Fine and hot. Windy. Over 80°F.
Mrs Bearcroft. Eva came 9.30. Alys with her to shops. Did some cleaning of pictures, Debby, and after lunch. (Eva came, kippers and raspberries and grapefruit). I cleaned sampler worked by Elizabeth Barnard (aged 10, 1803) and Edward and Sydney Sussex boat crew. Alys and Eva in hut. I took mat (Humphey’s) to be cleaned, Eastman, and cushion cover. Mr Bearcroft front garden. “Radio Link”, Moscow, Washington and London talking.
Friday 28th June 1957
Over 82°F. Breeze.
Alys to town with Eva and Eve to buy frock and hat for Eton and Harrow match. I met Mrs Hill (to Jones‘). Began straw bag. Eve back to ice drink at 4.30 with Alys. Alys and I sat in hut till 9 after kippers.
Saturday 29th June 1957
91°F.
Phoned Lois and Websters & Girling. To Haverly‘s with castor. Alys with Eve to Osborne‘s. Very hot, too hot on bed; sat in kitchen and sewed straw bag. Eva, James and Eve along after tea; gathered and ate strawberries. Alys and I sat in hut. “Variety Playhouse – Cecily Courtneidge, 50 years“, “Sound Alibi”, good. Tape recorder thriller.
Memo:
Eva and Teddy back from Aldeburgh 25th.
25th Alys did laundry.
27th Alys to Aldeburgh or 28th.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 1st.
Sunday 30th June 1957
Up to 90°F. Dull p.m.
Picked strawberries. Machine lining straw bag. Lay on bed 2 – 4. Eva and James to sew gramophone case. Back with Alys and James after Tea to quarters. Sat in garden. Back 7 (James away 8 to Debden).
Monday 1st July 1957
Very hot.
To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Hose broke. Bus home. Bought hat and briefs Evans’. Wimbledon. To Library. (Eve slept at 12 Grove Road).
Tuesday 2nd July 1957
Rain. Very hot.
Got refund seats. Trimmed hat with white nylon net. Library. Sewed chair. 5.8 from Marylebone. Alys met me and Eve. Mr Bearcrof, front hedge.
Wednesday 3rd July 1957
Very hot.
Alys took Eve to station. Later took Eva and met Mrs Hill. I to town for ticket and to Bank. Sewed bag in kitchen. Picked off dead roses after supper (masses). (pencil diary 3 a.m!)
Thursday 4th July 1957
Very wet a.m. Fine, hot p.m.
Alys took Eve to station 8.50 and to Eva‘s and shops, and Eva to lunch. Salmon, strawberries and cream. In BHN to Boots and re. hose to Salmon’s and Carey’s. Rest. Gave Eva £10 cheque. Tea and her birthday. Mr Bearcroft. Phil phoned.
Friday 5th July 1957
Dull. Very hot. Fine a.m. after 12.
To bank (BHN in Dene Road). To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Cleaned, dusted. Egg and coleslaw. Left bed ready for Eva. 5.24 from Marylebone (Alys met Eve, who to dance). Tea and Eva to Aldeburgh. Back in BHN. Eve high tea, and to dress at OMQ 18. Eve back 2.20 a.m.
Saturday 6th July 1957
(no weather)
Mrs Bearcroft. I bought poodle from Eve 10/– and hair-setting 4/6. Alys and Eve to Cook’s 11.30, leaving JLN, and then to Liverpool Street station. 1.33 to Aldeburgh. I had to get changed. Mince (cold) and salad. To Carey’s. Bought 75 foot plastic hose £3.15.0 (10d a foot). Watered garden.
Memo:
4th to 6th Alys (73) and Berry (Eva (48) and Teddy (50) birthdays.
3rd Library renewals.
Sunday 7th July 1957
Fair, cooler. Cool and very windy.
Washed things. Sewed. Began choosing for packing. Defrosted Fridge after lunch. Finished straw bag. Big strawberries for supper. Packed straw suitcase. (Berry’s and Eve back from Aldeburgh).
Exeter
Monday 8th July 1957
Fair, cool.
At 9.10 Colliver Fisher to station. 9.21 to Baker Street. Taxi Waterloo. Arrived 10.20. At 11 to Exeter. Lois and Laurie had restaurant car lunch. I sandwiches. Arrived and coaches to Hope Hall. Tea. Cathedral, well (Saxon). Back Hope Hall. Dressed 7. To Reception Guildhall, Mayor, drinks, speeches.
Tuesday 9th July 1957
Fair.
Breakfast 8. Coaches 9.30 (query re. lunches, picnic). Crediton Church. Tiverton, St Peter’s Church. Lunch at Clapp Café, Tiverton – very good. St George’s Church, Chevithorne Barton. Cullompton Church. Bradfield House (retarded boys’ school). Tea in garden. Wall. Others to Hembury Fort. Dinner 7. Winifred Simpson.
Wednesday 10th July 1957
Fine.
To Doddiscombsleigh, St Michael’s. Old windows. Then Bradley Manor; Torre Abbey. Picnic in rose garden. Lemonade, café (Torquay). Luscombe Castle, charming. 4 Mamhead House (Queen Adelaide). Wonderful drive by Teignmouth and Dawlish. Tea Mamhead. Reception, University of Exeter (principal (lady) and Grimes spoke), out of doors.
Thursday 11th July 1957
Rain.
Cadhay House – Captain Newton William Powlett R.N. Rain. W. C. Dampier Whetham, Ottery St Mary Church (Dr Peter Eden). Picnic lunch and “rough” cider at Hare & Hounds on moor. Miss Richardson talked in Hare & Hounds as drenching rain so not Blackbury Castle. Sidbury St Giles (Saxon shrine), The Manor of Sand. Some to walk in Exeter. Custom House. I to bed 9,20.
Friday 12th July 1957
Heavy showers and sun.
To Compton Castle. Paignton Church, the Kirkham Chantry, (Mrs Cox). Picnic lunch in coach, tea in café, Fore Street, Totnes. St Mary’s Church, Totnes. Mediaeval houses, Totnes Castle. 3.50 Dartington Hall, tilting yard, gardens. After dinner to Devon and Exeter Institution – Bishop of Exeter (Mortimer). Shandy. Mrs Willis (psychic).
Northwood
Saturday 13th July 1957
Showers and sun.
Buses to Roman Exeter. Lady Wells, Sir Cyril Fox, Corner House. St Nicholas Priory. St Mary Arches Church, Lethbridge. St Pancras Church. To St David’s station. 1.26 to Paddington. Lunch 6/6. Arrived 5.15. Taxi with Lois, Baker Street. To Northwood. Phoned Alys; she met me. Eve at dance. Supper, kippers. “The Archers”.
Memo:
R.A.I. Summer Meeting 8th to 13th. Hope Hall, Exeter.
8th Waterloo 11, arrive 2.5 Exeter Central.
7,000th issue of Sunday Times, very good re. Michael Faraday.
Sunday 14th July 1957
Cool, showery.
Unpacked. In garden between showers. Alys and Eve to Quarters 2 or 3 times. James there. Mince and blackcurrant. Gas fire in sitting room. Eve sewing green skirt and pyjamas. Ker Reid pedigree. Tomato omelettes. “The Enterprise of England – Armada”. Eve slept here as Teddy and Eve not back 9.40.
Monday 15th July 1957
Fair, cool.
Alys took Eve to station 8.50. I with Alys to station 11 (Brigeon trod on geranium). Shopped Paddington Street. Lunch 119 Bickenhall Mansions. New battery 1/6. Kitty at 3 (from St Thomas‘s Hospital). Rest. George called for her 5.45. To Marylebone 6.12, Colliver Fisher up. Kippers. “Weir of Hermiston”. Alys phoned Hearon.
Tuesday 16th July 1957
Dull. Rain p.m.
Alys with Eva to shops. I with Alys 11.15, got mat and cushion from Eastman. Alys met Mrs Hill, fried fish. Alys away to Essendon at 5. “Smoking”. Dividend from Algoma.
Wednesday 17th July 1957
Dull. Rain p.m.
Late up. To shops. Met Eva (on way to London). Rested and slept in p.m. after Sam Wanamaker (guest, “Woman’s Hour”). Darned stockings. “Snow Treasure”, 5 Norway. “Off the Cuff”, comic musical. Sir Norman Burkett (“Frankly Speaking”). “Murder at Elstree”.
Country Big Bus strike. Covent Garden strike.
19th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 18th July 1957
Fine till 11.30. Dull, showers p.m.
Phoned Cook; battery brought back. Mrs Bearcroft brought spinach and lettuces. Met Mrs Hill in BHN, cutlets. Lettercard to Alys, to post 4. Re-potted Mrs Seldon’s “succulent” with compost and Liquinox. Tied up Michaelmas daisies. Mr Bearcroft clipped golden privet. “Man, Beast and Virtue”, Pirandello.
Friday 19th July 1957
Showery, mild.
Phoned Eva. She called for lettuce and took me to station 10.15. To Royal Bank of Canada, Assistant Manager. Back at 1.30. On divan. Sewed chair. Slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Saturday 20th July 1957
Heavy showers.
Mrs Kertin 10 a.m. 3/6. To Holliman‘s, paid £7.15.04 fot chair. National Film Theatre “The Underdog (Der Untertan)” 3.00. Got to N.F.T. at 2.20 – no queue. Sewed chair. To Northwood by 5.36, walked up. “A Private Volcano”, Lance Sieveking, gold-making island, Norman Shelley.
Memo:
16th Received 1st dividend, Algoma $285.60.
16th Alys to Essendon (night with Barbara) and 17th Aldeburgh.
20th “The Underdog”, East German film.
19th Berry’s to Aldeburgh.
23rd Miss Anderson on Sunsalve won the Queen Elizabeth II Cup.
24th Piero d’Inzeo on Uruguay won the King George V Gold Cup.
Sunday 21st July 1957
Showers and sun.
Milkman missed us. Dyed ballet shoes. Tied up daisies and Michaelmas daisies. Weeded. Cut borders.
Monday 22nd July 1957
Fair.
Almost no milk at breakfast! Defrosted Fridge. To meet Mrs Hill, sausages, peas. Gardened, tying up phlox and weeding. Mr Bearcroft dug beds. Very tired.
Tuesday 23rd July 1957
Fair, warm.
Eva in, 10 minutes. Mrs Bearcroft. Laundry. BHN to Boots and Jones’, kippers. Took new hose to Carey‘s for addition. Knitted and gardened, scythed orchard. Saw Mrs Griffiths and gardener re. fence. Mr Bearcroft clipped grass edges. I tidied up plants. “Royal International Horse Show”.
Wednesday 24th July 1957
Fair, warm.
Wrote postcard to Kitty and lettercard to Alys. To get petrol 11/3 and Bank. Met Mrs Hill, fried haddock. Read papers and knitted. (Got hose from Carey‘s 10/3 a.m.). A little gardening. Washed clothes. “Royal International Horse Show”. (results above).
Sault Ste Marie pronounced Soo Sainte Marie.
25th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 25th July 1957
Warm, dull.
Mrs Bearcroft. I to119 Bickenhall Mansions at 11. To Dairy. Sausage and salad. Slept on divan. Eva called in at 4.10 with ices. At 5 to National Film Theatre, “The Green Pastures”. Home at 8.15. Tomato omelette. Notice of rent-raising, owing to Rent Act.
Friday 26th July 1957
Fair.
To Royal Canadian Bank office. Mr Harraby took a lot of trouble. Dividend $285.60 changed for £72.17. Walk to Handy, ordered books from Hayward Hill (bought black hat at Woodrow’s). 16 bus to Bank, Edgware Road. Mr Ray said insurance on Algoma’s cost £12.0.0 as the shares were worth £2000!!! To 119 Bickenhall Mansions, lunch. To Northwood by 2.5. Walked up. Wrote Alys.
Saturday 27th July 1957
Dull. Rain p.m.
To National Provincial Bank at 11 (BHN). Put £50 (£5 notes) to my account there. To Cowie‘s re. Algoma shares. Knitted and listened in and read papers (too wet to scythe orchard). “Much in Evidence”, play by Henry Cecil, coincidences. Good.
Memo:
23rd and 24th “The Council of the Gods”, East Germany.
26th “Young and Innocent”.
27th and 28th “The Blum Affair”, Jew 1926.
25th “The Green Pastures”.
Sunday 28th July 1957
Fair, dullish.
Picked strawberries and spinach for lunch. Knitted dark grey cardigan; and weeded in garden. “News”, U.S. Bar Association at Runnymede speeches.
Monday 29th July 1957
Fair, warmish.
Mrs Bearcroft told about Ronnie’s wedding on Saturday. I met Mrs Hill, and to Boots. Brigeon came. Cleared up grass and compost boxes. Washed things. Listened and slept in chair. Mr Bearcroft clipped front privet. “July the Fourteenth” Romain Rolland. “Ewart and Gracie”.
Tuesday 30th July 1957
Warm and fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. Looked for Phil‘s pants but only found vest; sent it to Alys with letter. Clipped golden privet with steps (bits left by Mr Bearcroft). Finished knitting dark grey cardigan. Cut off lots of branches. Phoned Eva. Mr Bearcroft hoed beds.
Wednesday 31st July 1957
Very warm. Close.
Wrote Kit. Met Mrs Hill. Ironed nightgown and new cardigan. Pork chops, marrow. 2.11 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Turned on Fridge and then at 2.55 to Classic (2/– as before 3). “The Sea Shall Not Have Them”, Dirk Bogarde, Michael Redgrave – sea rescue.
Thursday 1st August 1957
Very warm and close.
Phoned Ernest Vernor Miles (Merriman), 119 Bickenhall Mansions 3 years from September ‘58. Signed Agreement, Mrs Travers witnessed, took it to office with cheque 5.5.0 for stamp. To Bank. To Shearn’s and Fern’s. Home at 12.10. Rest. 10 Thinned back on chair. 4.14 to Northwood, Colliver Fisher up (books and coffee). BHN to Berry’s with books (for Ing). To get ice cream and oranges. Watered garden.
Friday 2nd August 1957
Fine and warm.
To High Street. Met Mrs Hill. Hot boiled bacon and peas. Some gardening and sand-papering seat. Picked strawberries. Lettercard to Alys. Mrs Bearcroft, p.m. Ironed seams cardigan. “Caprice”, Ronald Firbank, Robert Eddison, very good.
Saturday 3rd August 1957
Fine and warm.
At 9.30 to take Mrs Bearcroft her £1.0.3 for holiday week (forgot yesterday). Got cream. Wrote postcard to Kitty. Letter and order Paten & Co. Made “Mary Baker” gingerbread. “The Young in Heart”.
Memo:
31st Write Kitty – 78th birthday.
3rd Teddy’s holidays begin, Mrs Bearcroft too.
7th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 4th August 1957
Fine, sunny. Greyer after 4.
Nigel and Mr Cattle brought Phil’s board (for wall) in. Washed my hair. Read papers (Air Chief Marshal Lord Hugh Dowding). Hose on. Scythed orchard a bit more. Baden-Powell (Maiden-Noël), “Keeper of Youth”.
Monday 5th August 1957
Fine and warmer 75°F – 80°F.
Hose all day in various places. Began unpicking chair cover. Sandpapered seat (when cloudy). Posted order to Paten (lady met did). “A Father and His Fate”, Compton –Burnett. “The Cricket Match”.
Tuesday 6th August 1957
Dullish.
BHN to Berry’s and got spring onions and spinach from their garden. Took 2 cardigans to be cleaned, Eastman’s, also stool cover. To Bank with Consol dividend. To Boots. Garden – compost. Chair cover. Mending. Lettercard to Alys re. going to Aldeburgh. Defrosted Fridge.
Wednesday 7th August 1957
Fair, warm.
Met Mrs Hill, fish. To119 Bickenhall Mansions 1.42. To Library. Sewed chair back a little. Rested. At 4.52 to Waterloo. 5.30 doors opened National Film Theatre – Canada. Drug addicts (“Monkey on the Back”). “Royal Journey”. “Corral”, very good. “The Romance of Transportation in Canada”. “The Mask of Dimitrios”, Hugh Burden (part 1).
Thursday 8th August 1957
Very warm. Dark and rain a.m. Fine p.m.
To 18 Cavendish Square. On to Times Book Club. Bought Peter Arno. Battery 9/6. Got nuts at health centre 1/- ¼lb. Called for mixtures £1.4.0. Finished saddleback chair! 4.2 to Northwood. Walked up. Garden. Machined chair cover. “The First Stage”, drama (1550 Gammer Gurton’s Needle). Lord Brabazon of Tara “Frankly Speaking”.
Friday 9th August 1957
Heavy showers. Cooler.
Heavy rain. Met Mrs Hill when it cleared. Put extra bit on pocket, black skirt. Worked at chair cover. Brought chair into dining room with Mrs Hill.
Saturday 10th August 1957
Sun and rain.
BHN to shops. Lois phoned re. Doris. Picked spinach (between showers). Worked at chair cover. Thomas Telford in “Children’s Hour”. Phoned Broadway at 6.10. Asked Sylvia if Doris would come here tomorrow. Sylvia phoned 9.10. Said Doris would come on Monday.
Memo:
6th Laundry? (Mrs. Bearcroft holiday).
8th Big battery Vidor and small battery Vidor 8d ,9/6.
3rd Mr Bearcroft garden perhaps.
5th, 6th, 7th Canadian films N.F.T.
Lit Cozy stove – 13th, 14th, 15th.
Sunday 11th August 1957
Showers and a very little sun.
Wrote Alys lettercard re. Doris. Gardened; house leek wall. Read papers. Made bed ready for Doris. Sylvia phoned at 9.50 and we fixed train 9.19.
Monday 12th August 1957
Rain nearly all day.
At 9.30 BHN to station. Met Doris; home. Mrs Hill 11.20, 1/2 shoulder of lamb, jam tart. Doris and I both rested on beds 2 – 4. Slept! Tea. Worked on chair. Doris walked on veranda. Kippers. To bed 9.15. “Away Went Polly”, rather stupid play.
Tuesday 13th August 1957
Rainy and dull.
Walked with Doris to get cigarettes and Eastman’s. Mrs Bearcroft came. Met Mrs Hill, BHN and got bacon 8/4 and peas 2/-. Brigeon came. Lettercard to Alys – terrible news of Mandy from Amy Steel. After tea we walked over the bridges and then in garden and hut (2 minutes feeble sun). Sylvia phoned. Bacon and lettuce, tomatoes.
Wednesday 14th August 1957
Rain till 3, then fine.
To meet Mrs Hill (Doris too), BHN. Doris walked around and back. Mince. Phil phoned 2.30 from London. I got 2.57 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions (with milk). Phil arrived 3.35 as I did! Talk and tea. I got 4.45 back. BHN up. Doris out for a walk. We did Evening Standard crossword. “Twenty Questions”.
16th 119 Bickenhall Mansions (turned on radiator).
Thursday 15th August 1957
Cool, heavy showers and dark.
Letter from Eve and Kitty. Mrs Bearcroft came. Doris and I BHN to Eva‘s, and got Eve‘s evening dress (Maxine there). Back to 12 Grove Road and packed it up and then to Post Office with it and sent to Aldeburgh. Met Mrs Hill. Doris walked home. Fish and chips, apple crunchy. Doris rested. I wrote Alys (with Amy‘s letter), Nelly Moir, Phil and Kitty, Lois. We walked to get Evening Standard. Crossword. Sylvia phoned.
Friday 16th August 1957
Dull, cool.
Lift cozy stove. BHN to get petrol, and meet Mrs Hill with Doris. She walked all around Kewferry and Moor Park Road. Sausages. At 2.15 BHN with Doris and Mrs Hill to station, with Doris‘ suitcase and sheets. I back to put car in garage. Walkd to station. Doris and I to Baker Street, 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Out to shops. Made Doris‘ bed up. Tea. Rests. Scrambled eggs.
Saturday 17th August 1957
Fair, dry.
After breakfast changed sheets with Doris. Then saw her off by 30 bus at 10 to Sylvia‘s flat. Phoned Sylvia. To Library. To Electricity Co. to pay bill. Then to Northwood about 11.30, Colliver Fisher up (Doris’ sheets). Cold bacon and sausage. Rest and sleep 4 (walked to get bread, lettuce, plums at 3). Garden 6 –7.30. “My Flesh, My Blood”, Edward Chapman. Mr Bearcroft a.m.
Memo:
12th Hearn. Doris.
13th Mrs Bearcroft back from holiday. Eastman‘s ready.
Gave Mrs Hill 30/– for week (she refused 35/–).
Doris to Sylvia‘s flat? 17th.
Sunday 18th August 1957
Fair. 2 short sunny intervals.
Up late 9.30. Cooked plums and junket and courgettes. Rang up Berry’s, and James was there. I boiled potatoes and then fetched James in BHN. He had sausages and cold bacon, Fropax peas, potato, apple crunchy, stewed plums. We tied up his new wireless. Took him to station 4.44. Defrosted Fridge. “Gilbert Murray”, Arnold Toynbee C.H.
Monday 19th August 1957
Fine to fair.
Mrs Bearcroft, my room. Hearn came at 9.30 with a boy helper. They painted hut and he mended green hut. I met Mrs Hill. Wrote Alys. Sewed chair cover. Machined. Phoned hospital re. bricks. “The Revenge For Love”, Wyndham Lewis. Spain, Communist.
Tuesday 20th August 1957
Fair to fine.
Hearn came 9.30 and finished hut, and seat and fence (honeysuckle) and window. Mrs Bearcroft a.m. I walked to Bank (Jones took me down). Did chair cover all p.m. Tea for Hearn and boy lunch at 4. They left at 4.45. Tried to phone Alys at 6.10. Tried again 7.50. Suggested Aldeburgh tomorrow. She said yes. BHN to Mrs Hill’s to tell her.
Aldeburgh
Wednesday 21st August 1957
Fine. Rain at Saxmundham.
Colliver Fisher to station about 10. 119 Bickenhall Mansions with basket. Out for ticket and fish croquette. To Liverpool Street station at 2.15. Train at 3.33 to Saxmundham. Alys met at 5.39. To 48 Lee Road, Eva and Eve showed me house. To 5 The Rest, Crag Path. Lobster. Eva after. I to bed 9.15.
24th “Lapwings” race.
Thursday 22nd August 1957
Perfect day.
With Alys to shops. Met Gwen Cave and Eva. Hot boiled bacon and French beans, melon. Rest and sleep on bed. Altered frock (my – Alys’). Alys irond James‘ shirt. Eva and Eve to supper. Soles, mushrooms, cold bacon. Eve to fair. Alys, Eva and I to cinema, “Brothers-in-Law”, very good, Terry-Thomas, Richard Attenborough 3/– seats.
Friday 23rd August 1957
Fine a.m. Dull later. Drizzle.
Out with Alys in JLN to shops. I got bread. Missed each other and I walked home. Pork chops and spinach. Rest. (Dusted and sweeper in Phil‘s room and sitting room a.m.). Phil came about 7.15. Skate and black butter. James came in about 8.45 or 9 (Teddy had called in for him at Mess and brought him).
Saturday 24th August 1957
Very windy. Fine.
Eve in. Shops and Leiston with Alys. Got doormats and sausages. Took mats to Eva for door (back) £1.1.0. Phil on “Aida” with Tom Riggs mending her. Alys and I and Eva at Club-house watching race. James and Cray’s? Eve and Margaret (came in 3rd). Cave’s there. Lifeboat out. Rest. Eva called 7.20. Phil back 8.15. Avocado, peas, ham. Phil drove us round till 10.15 in Renault Frégate.
Memo:
20th Stool cover to Eastman’s.
Phil story of Peter Masefield (Bristol), daughter Vicky.
24th Wrote Nellie Moir.
26th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Northwood
Sunday 25th August 1957
Very windy. Sun and showers.
Tom Riggs phoned and Phil went with them sunbathing. Alys cut sandwiches for him. Cleaned up in flat. Alys cooked pork ribs. At 3.20 Teddy and James came and I to Northwood with Teddy in Rover, dropping James at Debden (near Bishop’s Stortford). Home at 7.20. Plants blown over.
Monday 26th August 1957
Fair. Cool.
Mrs Bearcroft came. I to 119 Bickenhall Mansions and Euston station re. chair claim. Lunch at Forte’s 2/7. Rest. Lettercard to Alys. Got bread rolls and cream. Worked at chair.
Tuesday 27th August 1957
Fine, coolish. Some cloud.
Caught 10.2 train to Northwood. Walked up. Mrs Bearcroft there. BHN to meet Mrs Hill. Washed clothes. In garden; picked roses. Ironed. Mr Bearcroft 7 – 8.30.
Wednesday 28th August 1957
Fine.
Met Mrs Hill and drove to Eva’s to get vegetables from garden – cabbage, spinach, spring onions, marigolds. After lunch took chairs (bedroom, from loft) to Haverly’s, but out. 2 plays. Pinned and machined chair cover. Mr Bearcroft tied up honeysuckle.
30th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 29th August 1957
Fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. I took chairs again to Haverly. Paid him £2.7.0 for other chairs. In garden. Cooked Berry’s spinach (with lamb cutlet). Wrote airmail letter to Amy Steel. Worked on chair cover. Burnt dry rot wood in Cozy.
Friday 30th August 1957
Fair. Fine.
Met Mrs Hill early. After lunch to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Library. Rest. At 4.50 to Waterloo. 6 o’clock, “Miss Julie” Swedish film, very good. Supper 8.15. “Mental Mediumship”.
Saturday 31st August 1957
Fair, fine.
Up 7.30. To get coffee at Fern‘s. 11.49 to Northwood. Walked up. Sewed chair. (“Inspector Scott Investigates” 11.55). Garden, gathered seeds, agrostemma. Cut hair with haircutter (5/–). “Madame Sans-Gene”.
Memo:
30th Miss Julie 6 – 8.30.
31st Library, Harry Black.
Sunday 1st September 1957
Fair. Very little sun.
Nigel in for a screw. In garden. Lettercard to Alys and postcard to Nellie Moir. To post. Washed hair. Sewed chair cover. Began cushion cover. 4.30 “Oppie”. “The American”, Henry James, 3rd Programme 6 – 8.45.
Monday 2nd September 1957
Fair – cool.
To Boots and met Mrs Hill. Worked on cushion cover. Haverly phoned and I said all 3 chairs should be mended and caned (possibly about £10?) In garden. Bonemeal to roses. Phoned Eva (Phil had cold all last week, also James has cold). “The Egoist” 9.15.
Tuesday 3rd September 1957
Fair, fine later.
Finished cushion cover and altered little chair cover. Wrote to Margaret and enclosed Robert Waterston‘s pamphlet (seals). To post. In garden, mint bed. Repainted milk indicator. Mended stocking.
Wednesday 4th September 1957
Drizzly.
Eva in re. Alexandra’s horse – on jumped Ayrton’s and Eve. Mrs Cattle told me of open windows on August 21st. Met Mrs Hill and heard she didn’t go that day!!! To Cattle’s to explain. Mended stockings and gloves (Alys phoned at 9.30 a.m., not coming today as slight cold). Sent Hearn’s bill to Phil. Sat sitting in sitting room with gas fire after supper.
Thursday 5th September 1957
Lovely day.
To Jones’ for kippers and got bread. Sausages for lunch (cold for Alys tomorrow). In garden, picked roses and godetia, daisies. Alys came in JLN at 4.30 (had coffee with Kitty en route). Sherry, talk. (Velho cream).
Friday 6th September 1957
Dull, drizzle at times.
Alys to meet Mrs Hill and shops. I wrote Kitty re. oxen N.C. and for photo. Eva in with letter from Miss Fry. I walked to get Marmite and marmalade. Cornish pasties. Garden. Mended black knickers. Alys slept on bed. Phil phoned 6.45. Sherry Amontillado. Alys to get milk from Eva. Haddock.
Saturday 7th September 1957
Fair on whole. Rain early.
Alys to shops JLN. I walked to get bread. Phil put his Frégate out on concrete. Garden. Alys did steak and marrow. Record for tape recorder, Kennedy‘s. Rest. Eve came 5 and stayed supper. I picked small dish strawberries (last?). Caldecott and verses. Phil took Eve home 10-ish.
Memo:
1st and 3rd – 3rd Programme “The American”, Henry James.
Mrs Bearcroft away with Sylvia‘s baby all week.
7th Phil‘s holiday till 16th (Alys 4th here).
Hearn’s bill £16.4.0 hut and seat.
9th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 8th September 1957
Fine.
In garden. Phil on bed a.m. Stiff neck and still a cough. Cornish pasties, Bruxelles chocolate. Eva and Eve came 2.40. In hut and Phil took Eve out JLN for driving lesson. I slept on bed. Records – “I had a Hippopotamus”, Elton Heyes and Douglas Kennedy and Derek Purfoy.
Monday 9th September 1957
Fair.
Packed. Alys took me to station. To 119 Bickenhall mansions. To Bank and shops. Lunch. To Wimpole Street Post Office re. letter. To Quebec Street. Rest. Phoned Sylvia Freer. Phoned Alys (re. Doris). Unpicked peacock collar. To Library. “The Death of the Heart” by Elizabeth Bowen. Portia Quayne.
Broadway
Tuesday 10th September 1957
Dull all day.
Mrs Kertin cleaned, 3/6. Changed mouldy cheese Cohen‘s. Lunch ham and cheese 12.15. Taxi 1.10 to Paddington 2/–, tip 1/ –. Train 1.45 to Moreton-in-Marsh. Nellie met me with Mrs Taylor‘s car. 4.2 to Broadway, 153 High Street. Tea. In garden. Slept till 6.30. Chicken and salad.
Wednesday 11th September 1957
(no weather)
Breakfast 8.30. Read Times. With Nellie to shops. Rest after lunch. Slept. Tea. At 4.50 we walked to Fair View. Lucy and Doris. Photos (Doris having treatments). To Post Office and sent lettercard to Alys. To Joan Fleming‘s – rum and lime. Talk of her book. “The Deeds of Dr Deadcert”, film. Family Doctor. Daughter (Penelope Fleming) temperature. Home in rain, 7. 50.
Thursday 12th September 1957
Sunny most of day. Cold, windy.
Times crossword and knitting. At 12.15 to Broadway Hotel. Sat in garden. Into lunch 1, only served 1.40!!! 15/– +2/– tip. Rest at 2.45. Tea 4.15. Crossword. Doris and Lucy in about 5.45. “The Archers”. They left at 7. Eggs in ramekins in oven. Mangoes. “Twenty Questions”, “The Wolfenden Report – Prostitution and the Law”, discussion.
Northwood
Friday 13th September 1957
Dull, cool, windy.
(My 78th birthday). Crossword and talk. Nellie got cuttings, geranium and bit of phlox. 12 lunch coldd chicken. 12.30 car. Mr Taylor to Moreton-in-Marsh. Train 12,55 to Paddington. Bus 27. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Out for milk, butter. Rest. “Mrs Dale‘s Diaries”. Bath. “The Archers”. Alys phoned at 7.30. Supper and then “Inspector Scott Investigates” till 8. 8.23 to Northwood, Colliver Fisher up. Talk with Alys and Phil till past 10.
Saturday 14th September 1957
Cool. Some sun.
To get bread, and Times, and order it. Mr Bearcroft planted Nellie‘s phlox (7). Teddy and James came. James picked Bramley seedlings. Phil painted truck. Steak. Rest. Tea. Alys pain; to bed 7.30. Phil and James potted shrimps on toast and cold bacon. In Alys’ room (forged notes, soldier’s spelling).
Memo:
9th To 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
10th till 13th Nellie Moir, 1.45 Paddington.
13th Library, Harry Black.
Sunday 15th September 1957
Cold. Dull.
Alys in JLN for papers 10.20 as none came. Put apples on garage shelf. Phil painted truck. Phil away 5 p.m. to Ipswich, calling for James, (Debden) on way. Eve to supper; Teddy and Eva to town, cousin, Addison Road. Called for Eve 11-ish (Swiss photos).
Monday 16th September 1957
Cool, dull, showers.
Mrs Bearcroft. I to Jones’ and to get chairs, Haverly,’s but not there. Cold bacon lunch, Queen of puddings. Read and slept by Cozy stove p.m. Alys walked to shops. Kippers in dining room. Knitted bottle cover. “The Trial of Madeleine Smith”, 1857.
Tuesday 17th September 1957
Warmer, fair.
Took No. 10 3 times in the day. Arranged flowers. Alys took Eva as Rover away. Alys brought netting for flowers. I did gardening, front garden. Alys cooked oxtail and chocolate (Bruxelles). I made apple purée. “The Apple of Discord”, Queen Caroline, Lady Cowper’s letters re. her trial.
Wednesday 18th September 1957
Fair to fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. Eva came with Alys’ car. They to shops. Eva to town. Kitty and Barbara 12.30. Oxtail, Fropax, chocolate Bruxelles, apple purée. In hut and bedrooms, rests. They away about 5 (no tea). Alys to meet Eve. I gardened and to post. Laundry postcard and 7d Copydex solvent (mended carpet).
Bank rate 7% from 5%.
21st 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 19th September 1957
Fine.
Alys phoned Laundry. Alys and Eva in JLN to Eve‘s College to collect teachest, and lunch, Hampstead. I washed nightgowns. Mrs Bearcroft here. Walked (read papers) to shops. Sausage rolls lunch. Rest 4.15 – 5. Garden. Lettercard to Lois.
Friday 20th September 1957
Fair.
Alys to shops and met Eva (hair). I washed round towels. Ironed in p.m. Alys hair, Northwood Hills 4.30. Rest. Garden. (To Eva‘s to see the lorries (trucks) continuously to and fro). “Any Questions?”
Saturday 21st September 1957
Mild, muggy.
Mrs Bearcroft and Mr Bearcroft. He lit bonfire. Alys and I shops, mince. At 3.30 Eva (and Eve) took us to station. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Alys got milk. Washed sills. Rest. To Hyde Park Hotel 6.30 Cave’s reception for Dick and his wife – Daisy (Glover) and daughter Pamela, Cooke-Yarborough’s, Michael and wife and Louise, Mollie, Nancy, Mark. Cold turkey. Teddy and Eva took us to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Slept there.
Memo:
18th Kitty and Barbara 12,30.
17th Mrs Hill, holiday.
21st Dick Cave‘s wedding reception 6.30 Hyde Park Hotel.
Alys 119 Bickenhall Mansions 24th and Eve.
Sunday 22nd September 1957
Fair. Some showers, mild.
Tidied up and to Northwood about 12. 3 Nigerians in native dress (broderie anglaise!) Talked to them. I got BHN and fetched Alys from station. Garden and rests. “The Claverings”.
Monday 23rd September 1957
Sun and very heavy showers.
Mrs Bearcroft. Alys to meet Mrs Hill. My bedroom cleaned. Walked to change peppermints and get oranges. Back in rain. Eva here and stayed lunch. Wrote to Gwen re. reception. Eva and Eve in 6.30 re. St Martin’s. Kippers. “A Case of Identity”, 3rd Programme. “Nevada Pastoral”, Redmond MacDonogh.
Tuesday 24th September 1957
Rain and drizzle.
Mrs Bearcroft, Phil‘s bedroom. Defrosted Fridge. Experimented with wool rug or mat. Alys to shops, cod steaks baked. Took Alys to station. She to 119 Bickenhall Mansions for Eve (at 8.15?) Rested. Laundry came. Mended nightgown. “Guilty Party”, Edward J. Mason, John Arlott.
Wednesday 25th September 1957
Dull. Mild. Rain p.m.
Mrs Bearcroft (instead Friday). I to Jones’ and to meet Mrs Hill, liver. Sewed lace top on nightgown. “Sleeping Dogs”, Donald Gauyon, good. Washed stockings. Gardened. Alys back at 5 or so.
27th – 28th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 26th September 1957
Fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. (Kit phoned, not coming). Alys to shops and I to Boots and Carey’s. Met Alys. Up in JLN. Got Waterford’s hot pressed paper, 2/2 a sheet. Alys cooked roast rib beef and prepared steak for pie. I made lampshade. In garden 10 minutes. Alys brought Eve in at 5.30. Sketch of river and barges.
Friday 27th September 1957
Fine.
Potted cyclamen from garden and cuttings – geranium, pink. Alys met Mrs Hill. Hot boiled bacon. Alys took me to station. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Out to shops and Library. Eve came at 6. Supper 6.45, cold meats and salad. 7.25 to National Film Theatre – “Little Man”, Yugoslav, good. Home about 10. Eve slept 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Saturday 28th September 1957
Fair.
Chips Hedley-Martin phoned. Alys phoned. Eve and I to shops. We to Tate Gallery, Monet show; and others. Aunt Alice‘s portrait in Sargent Gallery. To Westminster Abbey. Evensong 3 – 3.45. Back to Bicky. Eve tea. I slept. Eve to Plaza “Omar Khayyam” with Chips. I did her knitting, and “Barnet’s Folly”, Jan Stewer. Eve in at 12.10.
Memo:
23rd Eve starts at St Martin’s School of Art.
24th Laundry (special).
26th Kitty – cancelled.
28th Phil Northwood on 27th. Phil‘s birthday.
27th and 28th 119 Bickenhall Mansions and Eve.
Teddy and Eva Aldeburgh 27th – 29th.
29th Alys and Phil 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
1st 119 Bickenhall Mansions and Eve.
Sunday 29th September 1957
Showers, then fine. Cool.
Eve and I dusted. At 12 to Northwood, Colliver Fisher up. Phil there – sat outside, but cold wind. Steak and kidney pie. Alys, Phil and Eve to quarters – bicycle, engine. I rested. Tea. Go-ban. Sargent. Supper. Alys and Phil to 119 Bickenhall Mansions at 8.42 (Colliver Fisher). Teddy and Eva called for Eve 8.35.
Monday 31st September 1957
Fair with heavy showers.
Mrs Bearcroft. I met Mrs Hill and to Jones’ for fillets. Alys came 1.23. I met her BHN. Sausages. Rest p.m. (Phil exam all day). Brigeon came. Phil and Eve met Holborn station and came back together, here 5.30. Large tea. Phil drove her home.
Tuesday 1st October 1957
Fair, fine.
Alys took Phil to station 8.55. Mrs Bearcroft. Alys to shops and to see Kitty and Sarah, Kings Langley. Felt gripey pains. Alys took me to station. About 2.30 to 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Out for ham. On bed. Had Ernest Miles soup 7.15. Eve in 8. She had supper. Showed her old Slade life drawings and photos.
Wednesday 2nd October 1957
Fine.
Eve woke at 9. Boiled egg and away 9.35. I to Transport House re. chair claim and Cullen’s; bought rug wool. Lunch. Paid rent £5.3.15. Called at Standen’s Barber Shop. Cleaned sills and washed clothes. 5.24 Marylebone. Walked up. James on motor-assisted cycle round lawn!!! Phil also. Mixed grill. All to bed 9.
5th News of satellite launched by Soviets circling world (Sputnik) in 1½ hours continuously. Signals picked up B.B.C.
Thursday 3rd October 1957
Fair then dull.
Alys took Phil to station train 8.55, train 92. Mrs Bearcroft, dining room and made suet pudding. I phoned Income Tax, Uxbridge again. Bank statement – balance 11d! Eva and James to lunch. Talk and Go-ban. Rest. Window cleaner, while on bed. Alys to meet Eve. Ham supper. “Any Answers?” “Radiolink”; Senators from New York and Georgia, and Brazil and South Africa and Paris.
Friday 4th October 1957
Fine all day. Mild.
Washed things. Alys to town (after meeting Mrs Hill) taking Phil’s coat to tailors. Eva and James too. Walked to Boots for books and Andrex. Garden and papers and lit Cozy 4.45. Walk to Cullen’s, mayonnaise and bap. Sat in Eva’s car till Alys came 6.10 (JLN locked). Back with Alys.
Saturday 5th October 1957
Fine. Mild.
Mrs Bearcroft and Mr Bearcroft came. I did gardening too, clearing up. Alys to shops, mince. Alys cooked it. Garden and 2 plays p.m. Sewed. Alys to shops and Eve in and took apples and Reader’s Digest. I long rest and slept 5 – 6.45. Gas fire. “French Without Tears”, Rattigan.
Memo:
30th Phil’s exam. London.
1st Laundry (29th Alys and Phil, Bicky).
1st Phil – clinical exam, Royal Free Hospital a.m.
1st Eve 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
3rd Phil to Edinburgh, 4th exam begins.
8th Alys and Eve 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Clocks back 1 hr.
Sunday 6th October 1957
Fine and warm. 60°F in some parts.
In garden. Teddy, Eva and James came. Present of moss rug for me! Lovely. From Alys and Teddy and Eva. They took bicycle with engine on car. Mince, marrow and sauce. Garden and rest. Cozy chimney blocked and smoke into room. Sat in sitting room with gas fire. Bacon eggs and mushrooms. “Donogoo”, Jules Romains, Robert Eddison.
Monday 7th October 1957
Misty. Mild.
Mrs Bearcroft. Alys to Pinner to find sweep, Daws. I gardened and cleaned room. Mrs Hill, sausages, apple pie. Daws came and long talk (girl, Norman Hartnell and Molyneux). Alys to Cattle’s. Nigel engaged to Honey. Welsh rarebit. Mary Wimbush, “The Deep Blue Sea”, Rattigan.
Tuesday 8th October 1957
Dull. Mild.
Eve in and Alys with her to garage with LPH. Brigeon again! I took Alys in BHN to station 12 (she to Cattle’s 1st). To to Jones’. Lunch 1.30, salad and sausages. Defrosted Fridge. Washed my hair. Kippers. Tay Bridge, “The High Girders”.
Wednesday 9th October 1957
Dull. Mild.
Received Algoma dividend $142.80. Met Alys 10.50 BHN. Both to Shuttleworth’s, Hamilton Hartridge’s, Jones’. Mrs Hill walked up. Fried haddock and chips. Garden and sewed nightdress in bedroom. “The Escapist” (dentist in Caribbean). Alys to meet Eve. Cold bacon in sitting room. “Does The Team Think?”, Jimmy Edwards.
119 Bickenhall Mansions 11th.
Thursday 10th October 1957
Fair, warm.
Mrs Bearcroft. Eva came with JLN (Teddy took yesterday). Garden, parsley. Eva came to lunch. Kippers. Alys took her back. I walked to shops – marmalade. Machined nightdress. Rest. Alys met Eve (tired, museums). Bacon in sitting room. “Hotel Majestic”, Barbara Kelly.
Friday 11th October 1957
Fair. Mild.
Eva in. Alys to shops early and then took me to station. To Baker Street and then Royal Bank of Canada. £35.8.2 received for dividend $142.80 (minus Income Tax). 119 Bickenhall Mansions for lunch. To Library. Began mat with Copydex, hessian, wool. “Any Questions?”, “At Home and Abroad”.
Saturday 12th October 1957
Fine. Mild.
Mrs Kertin 3/6. To Smith’s for Copydex and Diary! Cleaned. Cold pressed beef 1/8 and tomatoes. Train about 3.58 to Northwood. Walked up. Alys, Phil and Eve at “War and Peace”, North Harrow. Supper, prawns on toast, scrambled eggs. Tiddlywinks, map of Edinburgh.
Memo:
10th Suffolk Street 3 p.m. Malik U.S.S.R.
12th Tessa Theobold’s wedding.
9th Mrs Shuttleworth 11 a.m.
Phil back from Edinburgh 10th or 11th.
Eve till Sunday.
8th Algoma dividend $142.80. Received on 8th.
11th B.A.A. 4.30 Harvington Hall, Webster.
12th Sweep, Daws 1.30.
15th “Eyebrows” sang sub song on veranda beside me. He has white speckles this year.
Alys and Eve 119 Bickenhall Mansions 15th.
Sunday 13th October 1957
Fair. Warm.
Phil and Eve to get sketchbook from quarter. Did flowers, godetia and Michaelmas daisies. Knitting stitches with Eve for black jumper. Chicken casserole, beans, mushrooms, peach slices. Phil and Eve in car and walk, Ricky. Back 4.30. Phil away about 5.30 in Frégate. Supper. Teddy and Eva called for Eve 8.15.
Monday 14th October 1957`
Perfect, after fog early.
Walked to Council Offices re. paving concrete. Bank £20 Algoma in. Alys met Mrs Hill. Washed and ironed. Painted tins. Posted £3 to Teddy for phone, Lee Road. Man with lamp bulb in fridge and bar heater. “Adventure Story”, (Alexander), Rattigan.
Tuesday 15th October 1957
Fair, fine.
Mrs Bearcroft. Laundry. Eva to lunch and took Alys to station (for 119 Bickenhall Mansions). Sent order for Churchill’s 3rd volume history to Handy with cheque, bill. Sewed knitted collar on coat; hat Petersham on. “The Dock Brief”, John Mortimer, very good. “Ludwig Koch Remembers”, singing Schumann (Monat Mai).
Wednesday 16th October 1957
Pouring a.m. Fine after 3.
Looked out linen, and made a little pillowcase for Alys. Washed and ironed it. Walked to Hudson‘s for ravioli and cheese. Sewed Peacock green blouse collar. Alys back at 6 or 6.30 (Eva brought from station).
18th – 19th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 17th October 1957
5 a.m. rain and gale p.m.
Eva phoned (Maxine still away with flu). Alys took Mrs Bearcroft to her (Eva brought her back 11.45). Alys met Mrs Hill. Sewed nightgown, shoulder straps. Eva phoned re. salmon. “Real Antique”, Michael Kelly (woman archaeologist).
Friday 18th October 1957
Rain, then fair.
Alys to Eva‘s with fish kettle. Then took me to station. To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Lunch. Did rug 30 minutes. Rest 30 minutes. Tube to Waterloo 4.15 (B.E.A. and Exit gone). To National Film Theatre. No queue, no seats. At last got a 3/6 cancelled ticket. “The Face in the Crowd”, Kazan, Director, Larry “Lonesome” Rhodes.
Saturday 19th October 1957
Fine.
To Fern’s, 2lb coffee. To Bourne & Hollingsworth. Bought cap. Lunch 12. 59 bus to Lambeth Palace, crypt and library. Coaches to Chelsea Hospital – hall, chapel, staterooms and wards. On to Aubrey House, Campden Hill, the Misses Alexander’s (Whistler portrait), Gordon Nares talked. To Leighton House. Tea, biscuits. Tiles. 27 bus home. Lois in 28. “While The Sun Shines”, Rattigan.
Memo:
15th Laundry. Put up Mrs Bearcroft to 24/-, 3/- an hour.
16th Alys to lunch, Mrs Hedley Atkins.
19th R.A.I. 1.45 Lambeth Palace.
14th £3 to Teddy for phone, Lee Road (quarter).
Queen and Duke back from U.S.A. 22nd.
22nd Alys and Eve 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
23rd 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 20th October 1957
Fine
Cleaned paint all a.m. Alys phoned about 12. Lunch. At 3 Alys came JLN having dropped Eve at Belsize Park Gardens. We drove back to Northwood. Eve phoned later and Alys met her (got job typing). We took her home (Eva and Teddy in Bishop’s Stortford with James). Oil in ears.
Monday 21st October 1957
Fair.
Mrs Bearcroft cleaned my room. I took blanket to Eastman’s and Vidor to Munnion. Walked home. Alys met Mrs Hill. Read old papers and gardened (Eve to see Dawn at college). Read “The Spotted Deer”, J. H. Williams. Oil in ears.
Tuesday 22nd October 1957
Fair.
Mrs Bearcroft. BHN wouldn’t start. Put on charge. Drove Alys down in JLN. She to Sainsbury’s and then turned car and went to Baker Street and I drove it back to garage. In garden. Spinach and rhubarb, cooked them and sausages. Sewed pillowcase and blue scarf.
Wednesday 23rd October 1957
Fair.
Mrs Bearcroft (is going to Eva, Thursday). To 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Alys there. To Library. Lunch 119 Bickenhall Mansions. Bus, Festival Hall (for ticket 7/6 November 23rd) N.F.T. 3 “The Laplanders” and new method rice product. Back by bus 1. 55 minutes. Clare Sheridan, “Frankly Speaking”.
26th 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 24th October 1957
Fair, mild.
Defrosted Electrolux. To Cullen’s for wool (rug). Cleaned. Alys phoned and met me 5.15 Northwood. I took 4.45 from Baker Street and took Alys’ blue jumper. Phil phoned 6. We forgot “The Archers”!!!
Friday 25th October 1957
Showers. Very mild. Dull.
Alys and Eva to Hampstead (re. Miss Fry of Hostel). JLN to visit Elsa and Virginia. I met Mrs Hill, BHN, cod steaks and chips. Swept out garage. Paid Mrs Hill. Alys back at about 4. Kippers. “Any Questions?”, Ipswich election. “My Word!”
Saturday 26th October 1957
Fair.
Mr and Mrs Bearcroft. Showed him leaves and planks. George, Joy, Edward and Sarah called. Phil came about 12. Steak and kidney pudding. Alys took Phil and me to station. 2.15 to town (Phil to Glyn Ed? party, Overseas Club). I rest. Fish salad. Copydex rug. “The Regent’s Candlesticks”.
Memo:
22nd Laundry again (extra).
23rd R.A.I. 5 p.m. St James‘s Palace, Chettle.
24th National Trust, Imperial Institute 6.30 Baalbec. Highwood.
23rd “The Laplanders”, 3 National Film Theatre.
Algoma 26th, Phil.
29th Alys and Eve 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Sunday 27th October 1957
Fair.
Cleaned and washed. At 2 to Waterloo (tube), National Film Theatre, 3 “The Crimson Curtain”, French and “A Sunday Romance”, Hungary, 3/6. Bus home by 5.45. 6.4 to Northwood. Supper with Alys, leek soup, cauliflower cheese.
Monday 28th October 1957
Dull, rainy, windy. Mild.
Mrs Bearcroft, airing cupboard. Turned sheet sides to middle. Alys met Mrs Hill, stuffed marrow. Eva in p.m. Boys Club collected chest of drawers and bricks from green hut 8.20. “The Consul at Sunset”, Gerald Hanley.
Tuesday 29th October 1957
Drizzly, mild.
Mrs Bearcroft, Alys and I put things back in airing cupboard and did laundry. Took Alys to station 11.15. To Bank. Cleared in hut, geraniums out in rain. Beef steak pudding. Lunch (and raspberries). Wrote Amy Steel airletter (6d) and Nellie Moir. To post. Read papers and sewed peacock blouse collar. To bed 10.15.
Wednesday 30th October 1957
Dull.
BHN to meet Mrs Hill, but not there. Got kindling. Letter from Amy Steel telling of Mandy‘s death. Alys back (with Eva) about 6, Colliver Fisher. She took Eve in JLN. Teddy and Eva choosing wallpaper.
1st 119 Bickenhall Mansions.
Thursday 31st October 1957
Mrs Bearcroft. Alys met Mrs Hill. Washed things, ironed in p.m. Wrote Amy Steel. Hot roast round of beef. Bloaters. “Trent’s Last Case”, E. C. Bentley and John Keir Cross. Talked.
