Michael Heath-Caldwell M.Arch
Brisbane, Queensland
ph: 0412-78-70-74
alt: m_heath_caldwell@hotmail.com
Rev. Capt C.H.Heath-Caldwell DSO RN aged 75/76
Violet M.Heath-Caldwell aged 78/79
Patricia M.C.Heath-Caldwell aged 44/45
Diana Charlton - (Danny) - (ne Heath-Caldwell) aged 43/44
Rosalind Attwood - (Ros) - (ne Heath-Caldwell) aged 39/40
J.A. Heath-Caldwell (NZ) aged 34/35
D.A.Heath-Caldwell (NZ) (ne Jones) aged 29/30
Irving M. Palmer OBE, RN.
Rev. Frederick M.T. Palmer aged 765/77 Maitland NSW
Norah Palmer aged 53/54 Maitland NSW
Diary of P.M.C. Heath-Caldwell
1964 was pretty good. What can 1965 do?
Friday 1st January 1965 - School House Bay, NZ
Walked up to hill overlooking School House Bay. Lovely views. Took snaps. Eggs for supper.(end of 64 diary) Woke to the sound of guitars and singing as the sun rose. Jim up first with a cup of tea! We walked up the hill overlooking School House Bay, where there were some lovely views. Big collection of trees (Pohutakawa) on top - very flat - perhaps a Maori fort. Took pictures. Down for tea - swim and had eggs for supper.
Saturday 2nd January 1965 - School House Bay, NZ
Caught 11.15am bus to Whakatane. I was sick just before arriving in Opotiki. Reached Whakatane at 3.30pm. Saw film "Becket". Had a good supper - watched TV for a bit. Very good. (end of 64 diary). Packed up by 11am. Took pictures of Mary Hoskin, Jimmy and family. They took some of us. Caught 11.15am bus. I was sick before arriving in Opotiki. Changed buses, and arrived at Whakatane at 3.30pm. Saw a good film with Richard Burton, John Gielgood, Sir Donald Wrefit(?) etc "Becket." Good picture of church and King in middle ages. Good supper at Commercial Hotel. Watched TV for a bit, which broke down.
JAHC, Mary Hoskins and family at School House Bay, New Zealand, 2nd January 1965
Sunday 3rd January 1965 - Whakatane, NZ
After breakfast set out to walk round to Ohope - could not. So went up. Felt scared - got down by the skin of our bottoms. Jim went round by sea. I cam back to hotel. Jim came back and we walked round to Ohope - got a lift on the way. Had a swim and walked by a nice road. Back for supper. Picked up by another of Jim's friends. (end of 64 diary) Exciting last day. Tried walking to Ohope Beach by the sea, could not, so went up mountain. Rather frightening. Managed to get down. Jim went on alone with the Moari friends. He came back to hotel and we walked to Ohope, had swim, and did a scenic walk. HItched back.
Monday 4th January 1965 - Whakatane, NZ
Read Pop's letter together and some of Jim's presents we saw. I caught 12.45pm - reached Hamilton at 5pm. (end of 64 diary) Pop's letters to Jim arrived - which we read, also some of Jim's presents - calendar - one by Peggy Grant. I caught 12.45pm to Hamilton, leaving Jim who caught next one to Tauranga area for farming. I reached Hamilton at 5.30pm and went straight to bed. Nice hotel Hamilton Hotel. Lovely garden overlooking big river where they were rowing, and water skiing.
Letter - 4th January 1965
From - Mrs V.M.Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorest, England
To - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Mrs J. Cookson, Salisbury Road, R.D.3, Stratford, New Zealand
My darling Pat,
We were awfully pleased to get your letters, just before you had started off, and hope you had a real good holiday, tramping along. And good weather too. Yours came on New Years day so was a wonderful piece of good news. And now we are well into the new year. We didn't hear the New Year's being belled out. And there was no service, so it was fairly peaceful for us.
Shilly left us on Thursday morning as she thought she ought to get back, in case if the flat - in the snowy weather, but we rang her up in the evening and all was well. When we took her to Bridport the bus wasn't till an hour later. 1.pm instead of 12. I don't know whose mistake that was, pool old Shilly, she does seem a bit dithering after her illness, and her feet aren't too good either. So we only took one little walk down the lane while she was here. She was quite happy watching television, and talking, and I think she thoroughly enjoyed the warm house.
I was expecting to hear from her, but haven't so far. I've just found a new way of getting things on the cheap! And that is with stamps from the shop! It seems a bit tedious, but you can get wonderful things from it, like electric sewing machines and electric blankets, tea sets, toys, etc etc. typewriters(?) and so I wouldn't go through them all,but you know its no wonder people do it!
Break here, to go after Lily, (to the?)to tell her what I wanted at the Marriotts, so of course I had some side lights on Jan's entertainments, she had some people to dinner last night, and cooked all the dinner herself. She's been having French cooking courses!! And apparently is very methodical!! Especially in husbands. I wonder who is going to be No.3! And now Daddy has had a grand time lighting up the oil heaters, as it was smelling the place out yesterday. So he spent the morning at it! And couldn't find anything wrong with it! But its alright now, and the heating is on again, personally I think we have been too hot lately, but never mind.
Also, Shilly has smashed the standard lamp, and will probably have to go to Mr Gould to get set up again. It's too tall anyway. I want to get it shortened as it will be better to read by then.
Ros and the family started for Switzerland on Saturday evening, and were to get there on Sunday morning, early. So I expect I'll get a good letters from Ros about it all. She certainly deserves it.
We had a lovely two photos from the Langdons of the mountain and one of their house, it was so nice of them to write to us. I have written to her.
I'm sending this in a letter to Enid, as that will be quite safe.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Tuesday 5th January 1965 - Hamilton, NZ
Very comfortable Hamilton Hotel. Left at 8.50am and caught 9.25am plane to New Plymouth. Missed connecting bus, but a kind man gave me a lift out with his son. Shopped in New Plymouth. Back in Stratford at 2.10pm. Met by Enid. Lots of mail on arrival here at Salisbury Road. (end of 65 diary) Very comfortable hotel, and were picked up and taken to the airport at 8.50am. Very good fine trip down to Hamilton (New Plymouth?) Sat beside nice girl. Missed connecting bus, but a kind man gave me a lift to bus station. Did some shopping and back by bus to Stratford at 2.10pm where Enid picked me up. Lots of mail on arrival, and letter from Ma and stockings as present.
Wednesday 6th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Corinna there with friend. She wants a Tray(?) Nothing much. Went and watched cows in milkshed. Sat in sun, wrote to Mummy. Went to supper with Mrs Hurliman, and Rosa. Jack there. Ate enormously. (end of 65 diary) Corinna arrived late last night with a friend Sue from Christchurch, South Island (bridesmaid). Sat in the sun, with a hat on and wrote to Mummy. Watched the cows being milked in the afternoon. Went to supper with Mrs Hurliman, also her fat sister Rosa. We ate enormously of home made macaroni, meat roll, salad! Cups of tea and then apple pie in flaky pastry.
Thursday 7th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Nothing much in morning. Enid milked cows in the evening and then went out to supper with Jack. At tea time Zena came in. Man called in the morning about digging a hole, Enid painted the step of the kitchen. I washed clothes. Sue and Corinna went out in the evening - so did Margaret who had been to supper with us. I played the piano.(end of 64 diary) I washed clothes in the morning, and Enid painted the steps grey outside the kitchen door. In the afternoon Cousin Zena came to afternoon tea, just before Enid went out to milk the cows as Ken was haymaking. Man called in the morning about digging a hole for rubbish. Jack and Enid went out to supper, Sue, Corinna, and Margaret and Gary (farm hand) had supper together. Mary went out, so did girls. I played piano.
Friday 8th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Enid and I went into town. I cashed a further £10. Got myself a pair of shoes, and more books, one for Jimmy. Still haven't got money to be returned for extra seat on aeroplane. Also the case for Jimmy never got there. Washed my jumper in the afternoon. We all went to bed early - only Enid and Jack were woken in the night by the daughter and Barry coming in.
Saturday 9th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Quiet morning. Sue went off to Christchurch to return next week. Letter from Lois, also films. Quiet day. A friend came with two children for afternoon tea very late - 3.40pm. At 9pm after I had been helping Enid remove old tins and rubbish to the river, the hospital rang and asked Enid to come and give 1pint blood. So I went in with her. Rang Mrs Harris, Rogers.
Sunday 10th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Quiet day. Painted chair in the morning. Corinna's friends came in the afternoon and stayed for tea. Jack and Enid and I drove to find Jack's spade.
Letter - Sunday 10th January 1965
From - Capt. the Rev. C.H. Heath-Caldwell, D.S.O., The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
To - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Mrs J. Cookson, Salisbury Road, R.D.3, Stratford, New Zealand
Dear Pat,
Several letter to answer - Two from Whakatane, this postcard, and one from Jimmy (2nd Jan). Glad to both enjoyed the camping.
J. didn't pass any remarks about the fuss I made about the extra pay to D. but maybe my letter never got further than Rotoehu after he left.
We have had one or two sunny days, but on the whole it requires a lot of will-power to leave a comfortable arm chair, but I do take the dogs out most days. In fact, yesterday Ben actually followed me without a lead though his courage failed at the first field and he ran home to Mother. Ma usually takes them out or comes to meet us.
One just begins to realise that the garden exists and will soon need attention, we haven't seen old Musgrave for ages - nor have we seen anybody else much as most people are staying home is the best bet at this time of year - however, Ros and family are skiing in Switzerland.
I rang up Jane about some pullets, and she the Manchester BBC job didn't come off, but she has taken a job in Swansea (she didn't say what). In fact, she almost sounded a bit hot and bothered because her darling Charles has come home from school with a friend - gone to a dance every night for 10 days and not done a hands turn to keep Mother!
Our little (Gian? Jane?) has been making extensive (and expensive) alterations to her house and I believe is in residence at the moment. According to the grapevine she is peeved because husband (No.1) has married his secretary. And G and hoped to retrieve him. Hopes now shattered!
Lily continues to keep us going with her wonderful cooking. And her (retiring instincts?) She gets no thinner in fact and one feels she might explode at any moment.I imagine you are now with the Cooksons, if we have to - - Love Pa.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Monday 11th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Another nice hot day. Letter from Helen B. After lunch Enid and I went to New Plymouth shopping. Hot, but fun. Watched TV at night. Margaret Cookson to stay in hospital.
Letter - 11th January 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Miss Anne Fraser, 55 Elgin Road, Mornington, Dunedin, W.1. South Island, New Zealand
To - Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
Dear Mummy,I do not think that you have had a decent one from me for some time - back at headquarters again, I've a bit more time to think!!
Also, this is a pause before I start on the next visit - Wednesday afternoon I'm off to Mrs Rogers to have afternoon tea and be picked up by Mrs Harris and spend a few days till about Sunday with her. This time I'll be on my own, and I think it will be better. Corinna's wedding on Saturday at 11.am and I shall of course come to that. Must go to see Colin some time too.
As you can imagine all intense activity round here with Corinna's nuptials on Saturday, Kenneth's Margaret about to produce her first, and all the hay-making in progress (late this year).
Every day more little or big cakes are made and put into the deep freeze, and wedding presents arrive. Tomorrow there is a kitchen tea in Midhurst Hall - this gives everyone an opportunity of giving a present if they want to.
This afternoon Enid and I are off to New Plymouth. Me to fix up the best (and cheapest) way to get to Dunedin, South Island next week. The travel agents in Stratford do not seem to have been very efficient in various ways, and when I went to New Plymouth about my ship arrangements they certainly seemed much more practical there.
Nancy C. and I hope to get a cabin to ourselves, and also to share the same table with one of her friends on the homeward journey.
I feel I have not given you a good enough sketch of our walking(!?) tour - it certainly was wonderful. It was also very nice to know that you have had a good Christmas - Shilly can be quite amusing, usually is, don't you think? If she doesn't let fo some awful bricks at times.
I'm so brown now, everybody thinks I'm a Maori or something - but two to three swims a day have that effect on one.
After our jolly good party at the Herd Improvement Society, which Jim seemed to enjoy quite a bit, but seemed rather shy (I daresay the first party he had had for a long time). At any rate Mr B.Graham - headman - said his idea was to draw Jimmy into things and try to give him a bit of fun ( He seemed a most human sort of man, who lent us a tent - which J. slept in - he is the headman there - and we went into is study and he told me how much he thought of Jimmy, and seemed very pleased to have him - in fact J. doesn't realise how much they do think of him - perhaps as well as he would have a swollen head. I tell you this because it made me realise that he has all the goods, and now he hasn't an encumbrance (like U.N.WHU), he should do well).
J. drank beer like all the others - and I stuck to lemonade - then J. tried dosing me with GIN! However, I had a bit, but thought if I have much of this I won't be doing any - - walking tour. So abstained, consequently felt fine next day.
We left in the morning (Xmas eve) but J. did say what about staying till tomorrow (at the hotel - Christmas day!)
Hwever, my reply was - if we weaken and stay at te hotel we'll never succeed! No doubt we would have had a very good Christmas in a super dining room, looking over a lovely garden wiht a Jacaranda tree in full bloom (a beautiful shade of lavender) Also would have spent a lot of £.s.d. which neither he nor I wanted to do.
So laden up we walked 100 yds to the bus for Opotiki (that was quite enough for me to start with). Bus trip was 37 miles and we found ourselves in Opotiki, from her up a lot of shellfish caught and eaten. Flat country with a nice little white church - I told you its history - and shops and a few hotels - also a motor camp.
Well, leaving our packs at the bus station we went and had a snack and located the motor camp. Here we camped for the first night - Christmas Eve. The one night that I took a hot bottle to bed with me. Jack's lilo was very comfortable.
We cut the first slice of Christmas cake for supper that night as the sun went down. I took a picture of Jimmy doing it. Considering the cake cost 6d it did us very well. 10lb at least, very good.
J. paid 7/6 for staying there the night and we cooked porridge on an electric grill in the cookhouse next morning.
The Christmas tree was lit up with coloured lights and a wireless was broadcasting carols and a service on Christmas Day. Our neighbours seemed very quiet, and as only a bared wire fence separated us from the road on one side we were almost in the town, but the noise was very small. (this was our most TOWNLIKE camp!).
Next morning I managed to get to the early service. Full church - and no sign of the awful bloodshed which had occurred there in 1865.
We packed up in the morning and after doing a quick survey of the best way to get to the nearest beach - we decided on the main road north. I was cooler and inclined to rain. We had hardly gone half a mile, and were about to cross a new bridge, when a soft voice on my left said "Would you like a lift?"
A pretty girl and companion in rather an old car took us about three miles, where she was going to her home. ½ Irish him, Morrison by name. A seasoned hitchhiker herself, she had a fellow feeling for us.
Then we walked on another mile or two till we saw a shop - (selling Tip Top ice cream - always a good hint to stop!) and a tent in a distant field - also the sea just over a bank beyond the field.
Without many words wasted I was soon in the sea getting cooled - but Jim needed encouragement. I don't think he went then. Said he had not been in for some years, and had evidently forgotten about the pleasures of the briny ocean!
After some humming and haring - we spent the night there - as there was a wash house newly made in the mddle of the field - we made good use of it. The owner came around, an ex-serviceman who remarked on us doing it the hard way! Said he had been round Palestine in the war hiking. He was quite handsome, and looked like a distant relative of Mr Greenaway of Maiden Newton. He charged J. 8/- but we considered that was well spent.
We departed (I rather regrettfully) next morning after an early morning swim and breakfast. We trudged on another mile or two and came to a little beach where a river ran out and a crowd of young Maoris were bathing, and a few tents. We went round a rock to change, but found it rather unattractive from the hygenic point of view - as had a quick swim and lunch, and set off up the hill.
According to the A.A. map which Bert Graham had lent us, it was uphilll now for a few miles - also of course, by now - unsealed or just dusty road. However, our luck was in, we were round the first bend or two and going up hill when a car tooted - and there was our 'old' friend Miss Morrison plus father and mother and English cousin.
Father sounded Scotch, so I asked him whereabouts he came from - but it was J. who was muddled, he came from County Antrim, Ireland. Anyhow, we went on for 44 miles, lovely tirp up mountains - glorious views and good company. Finally they stopped at Te Kaha Hotel, and seemed on the point of asking us to share drinks with them - however, we went on and found ousselves at School House Bay, which we were so taken with, that we stayed there for six days.
Jimmy seemed content to stay, and I felt I'd had it for a bit. Here we could swim in a dear little bay, quite calm, lovely sand and ideal for children, or go across 20 yds of land (where our tent was) and swim in a rougher place.
I wonder if you got my postcard, but I will probably continue this story next letter. Anyhow, I hope to include a picture in this of our camp.
Lots of love and Good Wishes.From Pat.
P.S. I still think that possibly J. will never quite know all about 1963 owing to the fact that he was always popping off to hospital. He was always telling me that I had the wrong end of the stick, and so I let it go at that. Knowing that he certainly appeared to have it.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Tuesday 12th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Nice letter from Jess. Did some haymaking after lunch with John, Kenneth and a cousin. Went to kitchen tea. Great success. Margaret had a girl just before we left for the party. Jack was there at the beginning of the party.
Wednesday 13th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Get to Mrs Rogers between 2-3pm unless hear to contrary. Enid washed in the morning. Very hot day. Enid took me in to the hospital where Margaret was and then on to Mrs Rogers who was very tired and ill. Mrs Harris came along, and then Dr Rutherford who is leaving the area for New Plymouth. Went out to see Scotch friend and also Nola (a nursing midwife who lives opposite Mrs Harris).
Thursday 14th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Lucy brought me breakfast in bed! Walked to village and posted letter to Jim with Heidi. Back and had morning tea with Nola (midwife from opposite). After lunch rested, Had late tea and went out to Omaia, where saw various churches, including a morman or Church of the Latter Day Saints. Back to scrambled eggs.
Nola Conlon and Lucy Harris at Dawson Fall, Mt.Egmont. January 1965
Friday 15th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Rained nearly all day - dull and got quite cold. Went into Hawera. Went to Women's club. In the afternoon Colin and Claire came. Left before 4pm. Two children too. In good form. Colin's sister engaged to best man. More tales of Mrs B.
Saturday 16th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Corinna's wedding. Left, all ready at 10.15am. Mrs Harris took me to church at 11am. Lovely wedding. Good reception. Two pictures taken of bridal party and Enid. Back to afternoon tea with Doris. Friends came in to tea. Back and dropped in to see another friend of Mrs H's. Had sherry. Nice garden. To come in to dig some up. Naval officer's wife.
Enid Cookson at Barry and Corinna's wedding. Stratford, 16th January 1965
Corinna & Barry Finch, Midhurst, Feb 1965
Sunday 17th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Felf awful with headache. Vomited. Mrs Harris went to church with Nola and child. In evening went up Mt Egmont. Lovely and cool. Stopped at Mrs Upson's garden. Mentioned Mrs B. I told truth.
Monday 18th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Very hot. Felt better. Mrs Harris (Lucy) brought me tea in bed. Sketched in the morning. Nola came in with her daughter. She is a cousin of Sue at Corinna's wedding. After lunch set out to Stratford with Nola and Kathryn. Stopped en route at Mrs (Pring? Perry?)'s to get flowers. Saw Doris. Tea at Salisbury Road. In the evening went out to Jack and Enid's friends, B. Clanc(?) daughter ill.
Tuesday 19th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Quiet day. Very hot. Corinna and Barry came back in the morning. Some guests came in the evening. Don't drink beer.
Wednesday 20th January 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Very hot again. Washed in the morning. Went over to see Langdons. Mrs Langdon goes into hospital for op: stones tonight. After lunch went into Stratford. Got money etc etc. In the evening watched TV and saw slides of Jimmy - good.
Thursday 21st January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Left for New Plymouth at 8.15am. Caught bus at air station. Man of 95 on it. Good trip. Bumpy till Wellington. Took pictures. Wellington on - smooth - but children sick - sat in back of plane. Raining when I arrived. Cool. Anne there to meet me. She is sweet. Works in Solicitor's office. Christian household - thank heavens.
Friday 22nd January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Anne went to work at 9am. I stayed in bed. Felt tired. Mrs Cooper cleaned. Then went into town and had lunch with Anne and a friend. Played piano all afternoon. In the evening had supper with Mrs Mackay. Bed 11.45pm.
Saturday 23rd January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Quiet day. Anne did not go to the office. 11.30am we went to see Jean and Una. Had lunch. First day of festival. Walked round to see arts festival. Also Olympic swimming pool. Back at 4.30pm. Had a rest. Then went out to supper. Saw slides at Paddy's.
Sunday 24th January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Winston Churchill died 8pm. Went to 11am service. Heard an Irishman speak who lives in Canada. Earthquake in sea between Borneo and Indonesia. To supper with Margaret. Rained. Listened about Winston Churchill.
Monday 25th January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Anne went off at 8.45am. Had leisurely hot bath. Did washing. She was back for lunch. Played the piano. Had a quiet evening. She washed hair. Listened about Winston Churchill's funeral on Saturday. Anne sees life in the office where she works - to do with divorce!! Have faith she says.
Letter - Monday, 25th January 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Miss Anne Fraser, 55 Elgin Road, Mornington, Dunedin, W.1. South Island, New Zealand
To - Captain the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
Dear Both,
I hope this finds you both in good health, in spite of a rather grim time of the year and wintry weather.
As you see, I'm now in the 'Mainland,' the expression used by the New Zealanders for the South Island. I certainly am beginning more fully to appreciate the potentialities ofr this tiny country stuck away by itself in the Pacific Ocean.
In the last few days I have attempted two letters, but have had to re-write anotehr one, as so many thoughts are running through my brain, and I don't want to muddle you more than myself.
Truth to tell, I had, as you know, a most pleasant week with Lucy, (what a clever person she seems, her sister even more so I think,) but the usual muddy story was raked up about the B. visitation which is so deadening to the, I mean really SHOCKING, to the grey matter!!
It was nice staying at her beautiful house, and she had a pleasant neighbour with small child who we saw a lot of too. Lucy took us up to see the Dawson Falls, and also in to the wedding. The latter was a great success, it was marvellous how they kept the speeches short. Corinna has married into a good family, her father-in-law is an ex N.Z. sailor who was in the airforce part during the war.
I shall have to pay a visit to Corinna's great aunt-in-law, a Queen's nurse, who Jack and Enid took me to visit at Bournemouth, to tell them about the wedding when I return.
I saw a quite a bit of Mrs Rogers - who certainly is a strong-minded old lady. She said Dora has been "very kind" to her, and the latter behaves when she is with Doris. Personally, I would say Doris is "very kind" to her. However, its grand for the children, as it seems obvious a good influence is going out to those children there.
D. is no longer teaching at the C.of E. school. She had not got the necessary qualifications. A good point Colin told me is that both J. and D. have equal access to the children. Colin and Claire both seemed in good health - Colin's sister is now engaged to his best man (a Kiwi I suppose). The two chldren are attractive and appear rather more like Claire than Colin. They did have sickness in October, but are better.
They had got all the hay crop in. (This has been a fearfully good year - bumper crops). I walked over to see Langdons and Martin was cutting his hay. Mrs Langdon is in hospital at present with stones, but should be nearly out by now. She looked very well, the morning I went, was going into hospital that afternoon.
Good reports of Jim's farm from Martin. I think the present man is doing his stuff.
I am just now enjoying myself very much all over again with Anne. She was in our cabin going to England in 1952, doing a trip to England to try and get a sick cousin cured of a difficult chronic illness. We met in Scotland and she knows Mrs Scott (of Sydney too, also in our cabin). Anne is working in an office for lawyers (divorce etc) so if you want to know any questions, write quickly and I'll answer. There are new laws out now, actually.
Dunedin reminds me terribly of Edinburgh. Here are indeed the aristocracy and brains of N.Z. Even Robbie Burns cousin was a minister in the neighbourhood, we heard some of the evening broadcast last night after a very good bit about Winnie.
It was indeed an experience the last Sunday evening to sit round the wireless in one of Anne's friend's houses, and here about the news of how old Winston had gone. They don't use much emotion, these Dunedin Kiwi, I supoose Winnie still reminds them of Gallipolli. I am in the middle of reading "My Darling Clementine," - in paperback form. We are going to try and get to a house with TV to see the ceremonial on Saturday. Holyoake has ordered 2 minutes silence on Sunday at 11.am!!
Someone was broadcasting about N.Z. affairs last night, and saying how he, Winston, was a REAL man, and did not need any Public relations officer!
I have also been reading other interesting books - Anne has many - as she is very interested in Spiritual healing. She came looking for that in 1952, but did not have much luck.
I'm thinking a lot about Jimmy - and have not heard a word since we said good bye at the bus depot in Whakatane. No doubt, he is very busy getting used to his new job. I very much hope to see him before 27th February - Jack and Enid are dead set on taking me down to Wellington to see me off. I think I'll be returning to North Island about 16th, as there seems no point in me being back there earlier,unless I get a chance of seeing Jimmy, and provided Anne can stand me that long.
Enid is sending on my letters, but I'm hoping I shan't have too many letters as there is only the chance of them straying. As it is I'm still hoping to get a reply from Jimmy about some things Colin sent him, not acknowledged, and I have suggested that Jimmy should have a box no., while he is up there in the north.
Thank you for sending on the letter from New York, mummy. Do you remember Puck Frik mummy? She was an attractive Belgian nurse who I met in Edinburgh. She was a private maternity nurse to the grand-daughter of that American M.F.H. Higginson - who lived at Stinsford, beyond Dorchester.
Anne has many things in common with me, as well as being the same age. I heard my first sermon in New Zealand on Sunday last when we went to the first church in Otago. A Presbyterian Church - the sermon was preached by an Ulsterman who had been doing three months exchange work here, although he has a parish in Canada!! Very good, he was too, and shook hands with a huge congregation afterwards.
The weather here has been much colder than the North Island, but no doubt good for one. For the first few days it did nothing but rain. In fact the plane landed in rain, so I did not see much at all of anything. We are off this weekend to Milford, a beautiful spot in the mountains, and spending two nights at motels. We just take food, they provide everything else. There is a festival here this week, which is enlivening everything up a lot.
We went and watched a procession down the main street. It reminds me of Scotland a lot, but of course, cleaner and much less people - but every second person talks with a brogue. We have also been to at least one art exhibition. Not quite so much modern art as the English school. Some lovely pictures - very tempting.
While Anne works I just amuse myself in her nice little house - she has a pet budgi who talks. Amazing what he says. His stock remark is "Good morning! How are you?" He is an absolute character. Another of his favourite remarks is "Give us a wee kiss!" or "Budgi's been a good boy." Or "Winky is Stella's own wee boy." (Stella is Anne's cousin, at present on holiday.)In the evening he says "Budgi want to go bye bye!"
Yesterday was what is called "The People's Holiday." So most people did not work. This included Anne. Instead (At the moment the budgi is looking in the mirror talking to himself!) She took me along the edge of the harbour which is a huge one, to a beautiful house and garden open to the public called Glen Falloch. (Did you get the postcard?)
Then she took me to the museum which is the best one in New Zealand (so Anne's nephew assured me when I saw four of them in the afternoon). Here, I spent a most interesting hour, while Anne did bit of extra work at the office.
After lunch we went out mushrooming with one of the nephews and a niece. We got precisely 2 mushrooms - on some downs coming up from the harbour. However, we had an excellent view of the harbour, and climbed on to "Arthur's Seat," a lump of rocks with a soldier carved on top of it - a war memorial.
We also went to see the seaside resort, nobody bathing - too cold. Brighton. Lovely beach with fairly golden sands for New Zealand.
No, Daddy, Jim did not speak much about what you said in your letter, but I was very definite, when he appeared to take Ma B.'s point of view. about paying their passage etc. Ma B. was bitter about that. I ask you? I came down on J. like a Ton of bricks about that - but you see, Ma B. has such a loud voice - you could call it the voice of doom! (could you not?) Jim (I feel, I may be wrong) will never probably be able to understand the in and outs of 1963.
Meanwhile, he is probing a lot as to what he thinks caused his B.Down. No doubt, in the end the still small voice will enlighten him, but as he is very "shy" of the church - he has cut himself off from help there. However, the doctors send him good advice which he likes. Also your letters, which I think sink in.
Of course, in this respect he islike a lot of the other farmers of that area - not least old Jack and Enid. Turn up their noses at the church, and yet get their daughter married in one, etc etc. Anne was telling me of someone she knew who was ordained and went up to a ministry in the north island. He was disheartened there, for they were all apparently oozing with £.s.d. and would give any amount of it to the church, but would never come near it; and he never saw them much at all.
When, with Lucy, we stopped to see a lovely garden (my goodness, they are terrific these New Zealand gardens), run by the head of a local W.I. Ma B. had rung her up, and left her some stuff to make toys with, and said they were off to the East Coast on a tour!
Apparently due back in England in July. My remark to the lady was that I was very glad they were not returning on the same ship as me in February!
No more news now, as I'm becoming CATTY. Must stop.
Have had more time to think here, but this letter is perhaps readable - my mind is in a complete turmoil. Lots of love from Pat.
I have been immersed in Anne's book "Psychology, Religion and Healing" by L.Weatherhead, Very deep. No doubt you know it, Pop. Also just read "The Forgotten Talent - God's Ministry of Healing." by J. Cameron Peddie. Two other interesting books I hope to read are - "A River Rules my Life" by More Anderson - Herbert Jenkins, Ltd, 3, Duke of York St, London S.W.1. 1963.This book is the story of M.Anderson's 23 years in one of the most isolated sheep farms in NZ. 100,000 acre station that occupies almost all the country between 2 great rivers and which runs from their junction back to the main divide of the Southern Alps. "Grand Hills for Sheep." by G. McDonald. 1949. "Grand Hills for Sheep" was awarded 1st price of £200 in the Otago Daily Times Historical Novel Competition conducted in 1948 during the celebration of the Centennial of Otago.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Tuesday 26th January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Leisurely get up. Met Anne at the office at 1pm. Walked back up the hill. After supper went down and watched the procession, with two other friends. Very amusing.
Wednesday 27th January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Anne had a holiday. So did everyone else. We went to Glenfalloch, lovely house. Then she dropped me at the museum, where I spent a good hour. She went back to work for an hour. After lunch we went to see her nephews and nieces and took them out mushrooming on the downs. High wind. Bath and had an early supper. Bed. Woke with bad pain in the big end. Bi-carb saved the situation.
Glen Falloch House, Dunedin, 27th January 1965
Thursday 28th January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Quiet day. Washed clothes and hair in the morning. Anne stayed at the office for lunch, taught Peggy to drive a bit. I wrote to Mummy and Daddy and walked to post office and back. Cooked supper for Anne, rather late. John Stranley (organ music on wireless). Also Richard Dimbleby about Brighton.
Friday 29th January 1965 - Dunedin , NZ
Stayed in bed reading "Psychology, Religion and Healing" until 11.30am. Mrs Cooper brought me morning tea in bed. Also a letter from Enid, Mrs Scott, Nancy C. At 2pm set off with Anne and Peggy to get to Te Anau. Through Gore, Lumsden, Riversdale.
Saturday 30th January 1965 - Riversdale , NZ
Left at 8.15am for Milford Sound. Country got wilder and wilder. Through the Homer tunnel. Caught the launch at 1.30pm and went up Milford Sound to the open sea. Back, picked up hitch-hiker we had seen in the morning. Brought back from Milford Paul Christianson (Father James, East Grinstead, Sussex) Back at 7.50pm at Te Anau. Milford Sound is a terrific place - took slides. Winston Church buried today.
Anne Fraser on Milford Sounds, 30 January 1965
Sunday 31st January 1965 - Te Anau, NZ
Back at Te Anau for night. Went on ship over Lake Manapouri. Peggy's father came with us. Back to Dunedin. Long drive. Peggy talked all the time.
Monday 1st February 1965 - Dunedin, NZ
Went down town and had lunch with Anne. Walked back up hill.
Tuesday 2nd February 1965 - Dunedin, NZ
Walked down town. Anne took me to the art gallery. Back at 55, at 4.20pm. Anne can't have me much longer, so will go on Thursday. Felt very upset.
Wednesday 3rd February 1965 - Dunedin, NZ
Anne brought me toast and tea in bed. After lunch on my own. Went down the town to NZ Shipping Company and fixed about tomorrow. Leave at 12mid. Back and Anne did the supper. We talked till midnight.
Thursday 4th February 1965 - Dunedin, NZ
Anne left at 8am to take nephew to the bus. I caught 12mid train to Christchurch, only 230 miles, but did not get there till 7.20pm Went straight to Wolseley Lodge. Quiet, nice room. Bed straight away.
Friday 5th February 1965 - Christchurch, NZ
Up late in day. Rather terrifying breakfast - lots of learned men (doctors?), then walked to Bryndwr to discover Mrs WIlliams, Mr Greenaway's sister. Also artistic old mother whom we fetched from houses for elderly. Took pictures of children. Errol, Owen and Margaret and two cats, ginger and tom. They took me to ship. Watched as ship went through harbour (crescent moon). Cred.
Saturday 6th February 1965 - On ship to Wellington, NZ
Slept fairly well. One cabin mate. Had cup of tea at 6am. Docked at 7am. Got to hotel. Had breakfast at 8am. Also walked to station to fix ticket. Met interesting person at breakfast and supper, whose daughter had nursed Miss Harrisons. Spent most of the day resting in bed. Not much of a hotel!
Sunday 7th February 1965 - Wellington, NZ
Up early and walked to St.Paul's, a beautiful white new Cathedral. Spoke to the bishop after a very good service. Sketched all day. Then went to Marden's service in the evening. Full church, most impressive. Churchill's funeral equally great.
Monday 8th February 1965 - Wellington, NZ
Left for Ennismere at 8am. Thank goodness. Got to Chris's at 11.09am. She looks a bit older. Much more fun with her, sat and gossiped most of day. She had a been to a retreat. Heard recordings of a spiritual prayer woman from USA, Mrs Eccleston. Bed late after going round to Chris's brother and sister-in-law, nice looking. Saw my slides.
Letter - Monday, 8th February 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o The Cooksons, Salisbury Road, R.D.4, Stratford, New Zealand
To - Captain the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
c/o Miss A. Fraser, Dunedin
Dear Ma and Pa,Just a line as I have not heard from you for some days. I expect this is because the letter is probably on the way between here and Salisbury Road. Actually, I leave here tomorrow, and am going to do a leisurely trip back.
I hope you are both well and not under the weather, and have got over Winston's funeral. It must have been a bit depressing. We had it on the news here, they also broadcast football results. It seems so funny, this is because Enlgish people over here still do football pools, I believe.
Also the news is broadcast straight from the B.B.C. and you can imagine how English it all seems.
I had a very exciting weekend, as my postcards must have shown. We travelled from Dunedin in Anne's little red car (the same kind as Tab's) through places called Gore, Lumsden, Riversdale (anything to do with Mrs Townes, do you think?) Mossburn, till we came to a lake called Lake Te Anau in S.W. corner of the South Island. Here we put up in a nice little motel and next day went on across terrific country till we came to Milford.
Here we got in a boat and went down the Sound surrounded by huge hills, mountains, and deep chasms and waterfalls. I took many slides, I think they should be good. Several big liners, and the 'Gothic' have been down it.
Then we came back to Lake Te Anau and the next day went to Lake Manapouri - the deepest in N.Z. Here, they are doing a huge power works. Most of this is underground work.
On our way we picked up an English boy, hitch-hiking on his own. He was the son of a farmer from East Grinstead, in Sussex. Said he had made £400 in 3 months working at wood industries. On this he was flying back to England and will be there before me.
Yesterday I went round the Otago art gallery. No news yet from Jimmy. His boss wrote me a good letter. He has not seen him either, since Xmas. However, he said some wonderful things about Jimmy.
Lots of love from Pat.
Letter - Monday, 8th February 1965
From - Mrs N.V.Palmer, St.Paul's Rectory, Cross St, Maitland, N.S.W., Australia
To - Mrs V.M.Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
My dear Vi,
Thank you so much for the lovely white handbag which arrived a few days ago. Fred, Joe and Primrose send many thanks for the Christmas gifts which were in the same parcel.
We missed Pat quite a lot when she left to go to New Zealand. We have had letters from her, and she apparently had a most happy camping holiday with Jimmy. It is good to know that he is so much better. Pat enjoyed good health during her stay with us, fitted into our household like one of ourselves.
Fred keeps well since his retirement and does a few odd services and schools occasionally. He misses Joe a great deal. but Sydney is only about 3½ hours by train from here. Joe really doesn't like Sydney, and hopes to eventually get work in a country T.V. Station. In the meantime he is learning a good deal, and studying. He will be 19 this month.
Primrose will be 17. She is small built, but gay and bright with quite a sensible outlook on life.
I believe your birthday falls this month. Many happy returns from us all, and we hope your health continues to be good.
Our eleventh grandchild is expected in May, Fred says he feels like a great patriach when we all assemble at a family gathering. We are having a drought here. The farmers are most concerned as it is costing tremendous sums to buy fodder to keep their stock alive. My little cow has to be hand-fed all the time. Fortunately, we have unrestricted supplied of water for the gardne and it looks very colourful with all the summer flowers in full bloom.
Well, dear Vi, I do hope you and Cuthbert are both well, also the rest of the family. With best wishes and love,
From Norah.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Tuesday 9th February 1965 - Ennismere, NZ
Had nice bath and washed hair. Chris took me to the station. Reached Wanganui at 1.20pm. Met by Stella and sister Rhona. Took me round the park and ducks, flowers. Lovely. Had a nice supper and showed them my slides and then went to station. Reached Stratford at 10.50pm. Read letters, Mummy has fallen and broken her leg. Shilly coming up.
Wednesday 10 February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Up late for breakfast. 9.15am. Also Ian Wilks. Talked and drank tea all morning. After lunch posted letters and went on to see Jack at work, doing sawing work. Back and had supper. Jack had guests, so went to bed early. Hot day.
Letter - Wednesday, 10th February, 1965
From Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, c/o Cooksons, Salisbury Road, Stratford, R.D.4, New Zealand
to Mrs V. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
My Darling Ma
,
Reached here last night on my return from the 'Mainland' and read your letter about the accident, also do hope the plaster isn't too uncomfortable and that it will soon be off and you back to normal. Is Shilly with you still? She will be a standby - and it was nice of Ros to come down. She would have like to have been down with you, I think she often is a bit lonely stuck up away there in the middle of Northamptonshire.
This is also to wish you a very happy birthday. I hope its a fairly comfortable one. It was grand to arrive back to my country refuge last night. I cannot understand the attraction of living in towns or cities - although for a short time they are bearable.
Saturday fourtnight I'm due to sail midday from Wellington, and should I come that way I'll send you the list of ports.
Enid is a great one for hospitality. For the next few days she has a young lad of about J's age staying who is recovering from a N.B. and who doesn't seem to find his home-life at times comfortable. Last week she had a Swiss friend who has since flown back to her country.
The great excitement is Ken's new daughter - and every cry and motion is exclaimed upon - and Jack gets teased for being a grandpa.
My great excitement on a slow journey back from Dunedin was to see Bishop Baines at Wellington. After a delightful afternoon with Mrs Greenaway and sister, caught the boat from Littleton and reached Wellington Saturday morning. Found myself in a quaint hotel with every nationality under the sun - mostly men there.
Sunday morning I rose fairly early and set off to find St.Paul's Cathedral. Reached this and attended a good service at 8.am in a beautiful modern white walled building. At the end of the service I made myself known to the Bishop (all dressed up and jewelled staff!) and had a long conversation. He gave you and Daddy his very best wishes, and also of course we talked about J. and family. He wants James's address - which I do myself too at present, and will do my utmost to get in the next few days.
In the evening (I spent all day doing a quite successful picture of the City of Wellington from the balcony of the hotel) I went back and heard MARSDEN speak. How like can one be to one's ancestors? When he marched in his whole head looked unusual - and was the living image of the history book pictures of his tough great-grandfather. A good speaking voice and a crowded Cathedral - everyone singing.
Two hours of Winnie's (Winston Churchill) funeral on TV, ended a most unusual day.
Love Pat
Letter - Wednesday, 10th February 1965
From Mrs Enid Cookson, No.4 R.D., Salisbury Road, Stratford, New Zealand,
To - Capt. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
Dear Capt. and Mrs Heath-Caldwell,
What's this I hear about you falling over Violet my girl, now you weren't by any chance having a fair go at that Capt's honey mead were you. Just check on what bootleg you have left Capt. I bet that was the cause of the fall.
Hope you don't mind that little dig, and both Jack and I hope you are feeling much better and that you are starting to get around with the help of crutches or a stick.
Pat arrived home again last night. My word she is looking fit and well, your letter upset her a little last night, I think she has reached the time when there's no place like "Home Sweet Home." when you see her I think you'll agree that this trip has done her the world of good, and for days or weeks she will do nothing but talk.
Well our busy time is over, the hay is allin, Kenneth has had a record crop of hay. He shup up 6 paddock for hay, expecting to get 2,000 bales, he got 3,700. All the farmers are having bumper crops so the rumour is now going around that we will be in for a severe winter. Every thing is so lovely and green. I think we live in the best part of NZ in some areas they are all dried up but good old Taranaki gets enough rain to keep things fresh and green.
DId Pat tell you we have a little grand-daughter? She is 4 weeks old now but still very tiny. Margaret only got her home a few days ago, and she has done her share of crying since then. She seems to be always hungry. I'm trying to keep away because I could so easily spoil her, already she like to be picked up and cuddled.
I suppose Pat also told you Corrina and Barry were married. I miss her very much and look forward to her letters. They will just be at Auckland this year.Then Barry hopes to get a position either at the Stratford or Inglewood High School, he doesn't want to go to a city, so either of those places will bring them close to home again. Corrina is teaching in Auckland so this year they are hoping to save some money.
Our summer is on they way out, already its cooller at nights, but the gardens are still lovely. Pat has been admiring a lilly that is blooming by the back door. The garden is all due for attention again, some things to be tied up, others to be cut down and the many weeds that pop up.
Jack is still bulldozing, with only one thought in his mind, to get enough money to take him overseas agian.
How is Lilly? Still looking after you both very well, I hope. Did you have much snow through out the winter. Jack still talks about the clothes freezing on the clothesline during the day.Pat and I are going to lunch, inspect the baby, then go out to where Jack is working. Tomorrow we are going up to New Plymouth. Well, Folks, thats all the writing space used up, so look after yourselves because we hope to have the pleasure of seeing you all again.
Love to you both, Enid and Jack
Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell
Thursday 11th February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Up at bit earlier - wet day. Quiet day, went to post office - not much doing.
Letter - Thursday, 11th February, 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Enid and Jack.
To - Mrs V.M.Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
My Dear Ma,
Another very welcome letter arrived from you this morning posted back from Dunedin (As well as ½doz Christmas cards and a very good letter from Jimmy c/o P.O. Greerton, near Tauranga).
I enclose a form about dates on ship - this you can make use of if I don't come back by air.
Very naughty not to let me know earlier what had happened - but I gather you have taken to hurdling fences! Actually, soon after, and before I went to Dunedin (no doubt reaction after J. and I's wonderful holiday together) I felt very down in dumps and had a feeling something had happened to you. Also, of course, after the tale of woe of Mrs Harris!
I have just taken some minutes to write a letter to Bishop Baines giving him Jim's new address. Not being much used to writing to Bishops. I made it as short as possible! (By the way, I saw in the paper, that J.E.James had buried old Churchill in the private ceremony at Blenheim - would this be the one we knew?)
It is raining hard today, so we are not going anywhere. Enid's garden is beautiful - she has some most beautiful lilies and the dahlias are very good.
You certainly sound very cheerful in your letter. I hope you are enjoying it. It will be nice to see Margaret again, and Judith and the doctor.
Jimmy says I can go up and watch him do a day's herd testing if I like! This should be fun, if I can squeeze it in. I also want to shew him my slides - which I have not yet done. Many of them will, I know, greatly interest him.
I am glad Shilly is with you. I cannot imagine anyone more useful - I mean she knows us all so well! Must drop her a line - I owe her (2) letters!
Enid's grand-daughter is minute. Rather like Jack actually!!
Jimmy tells me he has met many interesting people including a bank manager and son who have a farm. The son is going to England about the same time as me and has been given your address.
I gather he does not go 'out'! at night because his tractor only goes at 15m.p.h. - it must be "the Slow Tractor to Tauranga."
(Crossed out) - Perhaps it would be better to come later in the week - when do your few days off at the end of the month come? However, meanwhile, I have no one else to see - have seen EVERYONE! and am looking forward to seeing- - Misstake, I thought I was writing to Jimmy - all the same I am looking forward to seeing you again, Darling Mummy.
Love from Pat.
Letter - Thursday, 11th February, 1965
From - Mrs V.M.Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
To - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Mrs J. Cookson, R.D.4., Stratford, New Zealand
8.10.am.
Darling Pat,Many thanks for yor telegram of sympathy, so sorry you are worried, don't be. I'm having a grand time!! Quite spoiled! And now at the moment have a new nurse from Ireland!! of course, and she's very nice to us all, and very competent, and Daddy gets on well with her. He always did like the Irish!!!!
And we had a lovely letter for my birthday from Jimmy, and I think he may see you before you leave New Zealand. And he seems very happy with his new job, and says he gets on with everybody, and that is splendid. "Let the dead past bury etc."
I hope you'll have a really happy journey back. Give my love to Enid and Jack, and will write soon to them, they have been so good to you.
John and Ros come this evening after seeing David, and taking him out to (ywinom?) and they stay the night, and go back next day. So that will be my daily bread(?) And John and Diana and Sophie arrive on Sunday. for the day, quite reasonable, so we'll have whooppee but they go back that night.
It will do Daddy a lot of good to see them all. I'm very fit, and well to myself! In fact never been better.
Shilly left on Thursday. She is very dithery, poor Shilly, and can't remember anything.
All the best dear heart, I hope you have calm waters.
Your loving Mumo
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Friday 12th February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Wet day. Ian left. In the afternoon sat round with the baby gaping at it for ages - honestly never known anything like baby worship. Enid adores it. Went into Stratford, and on to Collin's where we had tea. Colin's sister to be married in June. Jim to come down for it? Also they have not bought farm, woodrot. Sister to live at Hawera - chicken farm.
Saturday 13th February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Very wet day. At 3pm went to R.C. christening of Lee-Anne - very rapid service! To put it mildly. Back and had tea, sat round gaping at the baby the whole eveing - eventually it was given brandy of all things.
Sunday 14th February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Went to 10am service of C.of E. Church, Stratford. Good sermon by Rev. Anderson. Went on to prayer group at Methodist church. Walked back over park with Mrs Rogers. Had lunch. Mrs Harris came over to tea and took me back to Enid's.
Monday 15th February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Quiet morning. Went out at 11am with Margaret and Enid to New Plymouth. Shopped and fixed ticket. Had tea with Enid's sister-in-law. Felt very tired - went to bed early. They had guests, but I did not stay up.
Tuesday 16th February 1965 - Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Felt better today, went into town after lunch and went to bank. Back and saw Jurich's garden - beautiful. Also Mrs Hurliman's. Said goodbye to them. Jolly good deer (liv?) for supper.
Letter - 16th February, 1965
From - Mrs V.M.Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England
To - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o The Cooksons, R.D.4. Salisbury Road, Stratford, NZ
Darling Pat,
Very many thanks for the beautiful flowers and all your feelings and your lovely letters. I'm sending this to Jack and Enid in hopes you get it alright but I expect you are with Jimmy at the moment. He hoped to see you and I'm so glad he likes his new job and meets lots of people.
I'm more than well and bursting with health, haven't been so well in myself for a long time. The old leg has to be pampered, but thats all there is to it, and I have a lovely Irish nurse to look after me and she is good and very Irish. I'm sure you had a lovely time in the South Island. What fun, I'd like to live out there. Must say, fancy poor Lucy worrying herself about those wretched (B's) B's in every way.
Are you coming back by the Canal then, I thought you were gong by the Rockies just to make your journey (ringlite?) Give my love to Nancy, it is (lovely?) your coming home with you, you'll have a fine time together.
I had all the family except the school children on Sunday and we had quite a gay time, with champagne and all!! From John, of course. That's what (sake?). I'm afraid this lazy life agrees with me !!
Daddy is bearing up very well indeed, and likes the nurse, so all is well. They have the breakfast typically, I get up for lunch.
The dogs are simply splendid and the little fellows quite perking up. All my love, and the scarf is a great success! Thanks my dear.
Much love and a hug from your Mumo.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Wednesday 17th February 1965 - Greerton, NZ
Left early at 9am. Fixed up luggage. Good trip up beside an interesting woman called Harrison who got out beyond Te Kuiti. Bus about 10 minutes late. Jim met me at Greerton with Mr Kennedy. Went to their home. Four little girls and a boy. Also a girl to help. Rowena eldest girl.
Thursday 18th February 1965 - Greerton, NZ
Pleasant morning with Kennedys. They go to Sydney in April. Left at 1pm in the back of truck after tractor. Reached Best's at 3pm. Jimmy didn't seem to want me, so will go back soon. Bests address. Made supper. Went to bed at 10pm. D. does not write to Jim.
Friday 19th February 1965 - Tauranga, NZ
Mrs C.F. Best. R.D.7, Te Puke. Jim went off at 5am to milk 165 cows. I had breakfast and lunch on my own, then joined him. After that we came on to Tauranga and he dropped me. Found my way to Black's hotel. Good supper. Full of Bowlers. Dress undone at supper, great jokes.
Letter - Friday 19th February 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, c/o Mrs J.E.Cookson, Salisbury Road, R.D.4., Stratford, NZ
To - Capt. the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
At Mrs C.FR.Best, R.D.7., Te PukeDear Ma and Pa,
Well, here we are! Daddy,
Jimmy showed me your letter - so you've cheered up a bit I see, and found J's address!! I arrived on the late bus at Greerton on Wednesday and was met by Jimmy and a farmer called Kennedy. We were driven in a huge car and a small boy as well to the homestead where mother and four little girls and a land girl were all watching 'Dr Kildare'!! Here I had a good night. Jimmy gets up early to do the herd testing and then we left after lunch.
Mrs Kennedy was a most pleasant person - a farmer's daughter who had lived there all her life!
Then I sat in the back of the Buick and we came ten miles here. Here there is a pedigree herd of Jerseys (165 all told) and this takes nearly all morning and afternoon to do.
However, I've booked a seat back on the bus tomorrow to Midhurst, as Jim says the next few farms would not put me up or couldn't and the pubs are full. Here, Mrs Best was about to depart yesterday, when we arrived - but gave me the whole run of the house!! (I feel like a certain little Mrs B.) I told her I thought that Kiwis were too trusting altogether.
I cooked Jim his supper last night, but he said the share milkers would feed him at breakfast and supper. he was up at about 5.am. to milk today. The owner here is an ex fl.lt. and judges cattle at shows. Really, they were nice yesterday, I can hardly get over it. Jimmy says his is really enjoying himself, feeling free. But hopes to do something more complicated later on.
At the Kennedy's they were saying that some herd testers are girls!! I have told him about the letters, but he says he's not going to get a special box no. or anything!
He says he is going to write you a funny one Daddy - when he read about your one to me about how furious you were!! (But he definitely has little time for letter writing).
He has started to read "Michelangelo's LIfe." which you gave me and enjoys it. Also a large book on Billy Graham which an Evangelist gave him the other day. He also had a pleasant stay with some Salvation Army people who he liked very much.
It seems really it would be better if he had a home, but he says he is getting used to being in other people's houses, and perhaps in a year or two I could come back and housekeep for him.
No more news that I can squeeze in now.
Love from Pat
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Saturday 20th February 1965 - Tauanga, NZ
Arose early. Got cup of tea at 7.30am. Walked to bus station. Good journey down, with old horticultural society man - amusing chats. "His wife calls him common, he calls her prim!" Knew merchant - Also Pukeiti. Very pleasant day, offered to stop bus for me while I took photos. He got off at Waitara. Enid nor Jack met me at Midhurst station. Old man with leg at supper - Hall.
Sunday 21st February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Warm morning. Sat in sun. Did sketch. Enid gardened. Slept in the afternoon. Enid's brother and sister-in-law and niece came to supper. Saw my slides.
Monday 22nd February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Went into town in the afternoon and Enid paid bills. I went to the bank and post office etc. Came back and went to see the baby - which Enid adores of course. In the evening watched TV. Good one of T.E. Lawrence. Letter from Miss Joyce Padwich in the morning. Sketched a bit of garden and mountain.
Tuesday 23rd February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Fine day. Finished picture of mountain in the garden. Enid weeded. After lunch quick trip to Stratford to post letters. Evening spent wiht Margaret, Ken and the baby. Margaret and Le-ann to go to Wanganui Karatani home on Thursday for a week. Letters from Mum and Daddy.
Letter - Tuesday, 23rd February, 1965
From Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, c/o Mrs O.E. Cookson, Salisbury Road, R.D.4. Stratford, NZ
to Capt. The Rev. and Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England.c/o Enid and Jack.
Dear Ma and Pa,
Thank you for your two letters arrived this morning. So glad the birthday was a success, and the flowers may get there on time.
Jimmy's addres, Daddy, is
c/o P.O. Greerton - not Greenton, near Tauranga.
I suggested that he should do something definite about an address, but he says that will do. Well, there it is.
Greerton is a place about 1/4 the size of Dorchester - more or less a suburb of Tauranga. (6 miles out).
I think he'll be at this job for another coulple of months, his holiday comes when the cows dry up. Then I suppose his address will change again.
I think you could give him much better advice than I could.
Personally I think having one's letters or parcels muddled up is a major annoyance. However, he does not seem to think in the same lines as me! Probably because his job is of great interest and he doesn't get so much pleasure out of letters, rather more out of the job. Also he has remarkably little time for writing.
Getting around at 15 mph on the tractor is slow, but of course it is probably far easier on the nerves than going at 60mph (least I thought so, sitting in the trailor behind, and getting all the fresh air!)
I was only there for two days as the farms were not all suitable for putting me up, and the local hotel (luckily) was full up - at 4gns a day!!
Personally I think or rather felt that he is very glad to be free as he himself said, and I seemed just a bit unecessary at times. Especially when he preferred to have breakfast and lunch with some positively unattractive share milkers with a very scruffy table cloth! rather than walk down the road and have it with me - in the Best's own kitchen! No doubt she was a good cook. However, this is probably because I have been rather spoilt living in Enid's spotless house. The great thing is that he is enjoying doing the job, and obviously making many friends.
I must write to Mrs Kennedy, the first little farmer's wife where we went. She and her husband are handing over their five children to someone else and going for a 14 days holiday in Australia in April.
Lucy and Doris are coming over here on Thursday evening to tea (really supper) and she is going to show us her Jap slides. I hope to see Collin again.
I have sent you a list of ports where Rangitane stops. Enid says we'll have to start at 4.am!! on Saturday to get to Wellington by 10.30am.
Lots of love and good wishes, Pat.
Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell
Wednesday 24th February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Lovely day. In the afternoon called on Zara, but she and John were at a funeral. Had tea with Grandmother. Young man (airforce) came to show films. Far too many. So bed by 2.30am.
Thursday 25th February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Lovely day again. Felt tired. In to Stratford after lunch. Washed and ironed. Mrs Rogers and Mrs Harris came to show slides but I asked them to come to supper instead of tea! Left midnight.
Friday 26th February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Paced in the morning. After lunch quick trip into Stratford, bank, post office, rang up NZ Shipping Co. and they said - be there at 10.30am. Rang up Martin Langdon and said good bye.
Saturday 27th February 1965, Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Sailing day. Left Salisbury Road, (Midhurst) at 6am. Jack driving. Had cup of tea at Wanganui., Lake Virginia. Felt awful. Arrived ship at 10.30am. Dumped luggage and went on to Cookson's friends - marvellous lunch and afternoon tea there. Then on to ship at 3.30pm. Left at 5pm. With Nancy and Molly Walch. Margaret and Ken sent flowers, and fruit "Terrific" Send off - nylon stockings. Sat and watched Wellington disappear!
Pat HC, Cooksons and co at the wharf by the R.M.S. Rangitane, Sat. 27th Feb 1965
Pat HC to far right, with Cooksons and co, on board R.M.S. Rangitane, Wellington, 27th Feb 1965
(separate page) 27th Saturday, Antipodes Day. Sunny. Went down to breakfast 10am. Fire drill and names called. Stayed in bed all day. Felt miserable and went down to supper, Nancy stayed in cabin. Encountered two ghastly women at the table - one Canadian - one from Norfolk. Nearly had a fight. Went and sat in drawing room.
Sunday 28th February 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Down all day. 11am service in dining central hall. Played several sports. Slept heavily all afternoon. Nancy not too good. Got rougher. Clocks back 30 minutes. Quiz.
Monday 1st March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Frightful night, did not sleep a wink. 55mph gale. Rough. Up for breakfast. Sports in the morning. Rested from before lunch to supper, Did not feel very well. Got up for supper. Nancy not too good. Played crossword puzzles. Clocks back 30 minutes.
Tuesday 2nd March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Nice sunny day. Played bucket quoits with Molly. Had all meals. Refridgeration officer arrived for supper, Captain's cocktail party. Drank lemonade. Quite fun. Crosswords afterwards. Bed later.
Wednesday 3rd March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Frightful day. Went to call Molly, and woke up another person by mistake. Terrific time trying to find partners. Found luggage alright. Played a match at 2pm and lost, rested. Played a match at 5pm, and phew! Frightful opponent, but we won. Awful crosswords. Good film, "Murder Most Fowl."
R.M.S. Rangitane
Letter - Wednesday, 3rd March 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, R.M.S. Rangitane,
To - Captain the Rev. and Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England
Darling Ma and Pa,
Well, here I am bang in the midst of all the holiday makers once more. The sun is shining overhead, the tempurature is up, and most people seem to be either in the pool or on the point of getting in! While you, poor dears, are, I gather, having the coldest March weather for years. Probably by this time the plaster will be removed, Mummy. Anyhow I hope so - and you will be taking those first stps. No doubt you will be getting on fine with nurse's help too.
I must go back and tell you a bit about the great send off I had. I did not get over to see either Collin or Martin Langdon again, but just spoke on the phone. Mrs Langdon has almost recovered from her op, (same as Gladys B's) but feel weak at time, he says.
Colin had heard from Jimmy, who continually is given the same kind of advice by the former, as you do - Pop!! (What a lot I shall be able to tell you when I get back!)
Doris and Lucy came over on Thursday night and did not leave till midnight, seeing slides of Japan shown by Lucy.
Friday was quiet - al last visit to Stratford to get a final T's cheque - and for Enid to see a sick relative in hospital. We had afternoon tea with another of her relatives.
We had a quiet evening, and they wanted to open a bottle of champagne which I had brought over on 'Norther Star.' Finally, as Jack did not arrive from work till late - we left it. They will open it on their silver wedding day in May. (date unknown says Enid!).
Enid and Jack were due to meet friends in Wellington who rang to say ship does not sail till 5.pm, and to be on board by 3.pm. Me, by this time after eight months of "sink or swim," on my own promptly checked with the New Plymouth office, who said - original plans remain - be on board by 10.30.am. Ship sails midday, but stays out in Welllington Harbour till 5.pm.!! (queer?)"
So, to be sure, Enid told Jack we had to be there by 10.am!! (wifely strategy). We left at 6.am - up at 4.45. and reached Wellington at 10.30.am, and took about 15 minutes to find the Rangitane. (I'd forgotten to find out which wharf it sailed from!). This was very good driving on Jack's part, but they have had a new car recently.
Well, we got to the ship, and got our baggage on, (I mean mine) only to find the was WRONG. We did not have to be on board till 3.pm.
Nancy had arrived with her friend and gone ashore for lunch. So I went with Jack and Enid to their friend's for lunch - where we had a very good one indeed. Their friends had recently travelled too. Then a snooze and then afternoon tea, with the usual wonderful cakes these Kiwis are so good at producing.
Then, as Nancy had given us extra passes for guests, we all set off for the ship. The cabin was full of flowers as Enid picked a magnificent bunch of astors, also the young son and wife had sent me a gift of fruit and flowers. We showed them the ship (much smaller than 'Northern Star' - but a much nicer cabin with port hole - also better food).
Then it was time for them to go, so we said good bye, and then the process of streamers and looking at each other for 40 minutes so so!!
Finally, we drew out backwards! our four kiwi friends waving on the shore and down the harbour. Nancy and I and Mollie Walsh sat in the front, its a nice long harbour to come down. We saw quite a lot of shoals of porpoise jumping - pinkish hues in the sunset.
Since then the voyage appears to be going to be very much more fun than coming out. Nancy's friend has a large sense of humour!! We had 2 Sat. 27th March, so are now one day behind you. Very rough weather for 3 days.
Love Pat.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Thursday 4th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Greenough. Better day, up at 8.15am and was beaten by Mollie Walch at deck tennis. Tried finding partners for some things etc. Wrote some letters. More games in the afternoon. Very little resting. Amusing supper.
Friday 5th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane - Tahiti
Up early to see arrival into Papeete, Tahiti. Thunderstorm in progress. Arrived 10am. Went ashore and bought postcards, and other things. Pouring with rain. Not many flowers out. 240 Francs per UK£ 238 francs per NZ £ pound. Walked along and had pork chops and mashed potatoe. Glass bottomed boat - lovely view of coral. Felt ill all day. Two aspros, went to bed for 2 hours. Left ship at 8pm for Tahiti Hotel. Had lovely dinner in huge native hut place. Tahitian music and dancing. Arrived back at midnight. Few people round, went to bed, but did not sleep. Party in opposite cabin.
Saturday 6th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Ship went off at 6am following Ellinas - Greek ship with 2000 on board. Went to bed and slept after breakfast till lunch. Rested all afternoon in deck chairs. Great controversy about playing deck golf!! Played scrabble after supper. Slept fairly well.
Sunday 7th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Going through Taumatu or Low Archipelego, Anau Island - then Hikuru, then Tauere - see next page.
Monday 8th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane- Sunday 7th
Peaceful day. Nancy's birthday. Had her present at breakfast. Sherry party before lunch in M.S.'s cabin. Slept well after lunch. Bridge at 4.30pm. Golf game at 5.30pm. Beaten, thank goodness. After supper quiz. 45/60 - six of us, headed by Nancy. Tired out at bed time. Slept well. Air shute in which was good. Mon.
(separate page) - Monday 28th March - Quite a good day. Did mixed darts - fun, but lost. Rested in the afternoon,. Had a flood, got stewardess. OK. Party in the evening to celebrate winning last night. Played scrabble with Hilary Someone - x - women in drawing room.
Tuesday 9th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Tried to play several games which did not come off. Quite a pleasant day.
Wednesday 10th March 1965 - SS Rangitane
Pink Panter film, David Niven. Rather silly - colour. Good day. Lot of sport in the morning. Showed slides to Nancy and Molly in the afternoon. Refridgeration Officer appeared in the evening, and we went to Mollie's cabin afterwards. Played scrabble with Hilary Overy M.B.E. afterwards in the lounge place.
Thursday 11th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Race meeting in the evening. Quite fun.
Friday 12th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
On again in the evening. Played some hard games of deck tennis. Knocked out of darts at 2pm by Dutch girl. Did posters in the afternoon. Deck tennis at 5.30pm. Film of Navarone. Went to bed without supper.
Letter - Friday, 12th March 1965
From - Mrs Enid Cookson, Salisbury Road, No.4 R.D., Stratford, New Zealand
To - Capt. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, Cattistock, Maiden Newton, Dorset, England
Dear Capt. and Mrs Heath-Caldwell,
I bet your counting the days till Pat comes home and when she does your tongues will wag for days.
Our house doesn't seem the same, no one to talk to, no one to have a morning cup of tea with, the pinano (piano?) also wonders why its getting no attention, so you see we are missing Pat, some how when she used to hop on one of her trips, we'd say 'She will be back soon and we'll hear all the news,' but when we took her down to Wellington we know it will be many years before she is back this way. She has certainly enjoyed herself and Violet, you can sell your dish-washer, Pat is an expert at the job now.
She will also rest your minds a lot over Jimmy, he has taken on a job that is very interesting and he also meets people which will be good for him. Hope you enjoy Pat's slides, she has taken some beauties.
Well, we have had a poor summer, the wettest for many years. Our mountain has had two coasts of snow, something unheard of for Feb and March. At the moment we are getting the smoke fro the bush fires in Australia, planes are unable to land at some of the airports. I think there is fog with the smoke.
Our little grand-daughter is down in the Karatani Hospital. Its a place for babies who are not doing so well. Margaret and I go down once a week to Wanganui to see her. She is starting to gain some weight and crys less, the sister yesterday told us she will be there at least another 6 weeks.
The rest of the family are all well, Jack is away all day making more money to give to the Government. I'll be pleased when he decides to give the job up, if he waits to long his health will make him stop.
Hope your leg is mending and that you soon get it out of plaster. Capt, hide all your bottles when she gets mobile again, all the best to you both. Remember us to Lilly and all at Cattistock.
Love from Enid and Jack xx
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Saturday 13th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Quiet day. Watched Nancy and Mollie play tennis on top deck. Captain there. Had a restful afternoon, washed hair and put in curlers, got ready for fancy dress dance, went as "Boat Stations." Got very hot, but quite fun.
Sunday 14th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Quiet day. Had a few games of quoits on top deck. Rested in afternoon in deck chairs. Neptune came on board in evening. Slowed slides. Mine came out quite well.
Monday 15th March 1965 - SS Rangitane
Up on top deck for a bit playing quoits. (Wrote to H. Brickman and Mrs Brookhmyze) Rested after lunch. Played deck golf and won. In the morning watched Neptune, and court on deck, rather fun. Mr Smith did a duel with darts. In the evening Molly and Nancy played scrabble - I played the piano in the drawing room. Then went to "Slides of Britain" by Mr Hapgood F.R.P.S. Very good.
Tuesday 16th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Good day. Mrs Walch and Codrington invited to party! Me not. Watched Mollie play deck gold and be beaten. Film in the evening - rather silly I thought.
Wednesday 17th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Quiet day. Played whist in the evening. Not such fun as SS Northern Star.
Thursday 18th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane - Balboa
Saw us arrive at Balboa under the bridge. Went ashore at 10am, in taxi with black man round town. Did some shopping. Back for lunch. Then had a good sleep and went off in another taxi to Administration building. Walked round and saw trees, railways etc. Back to ship and went to bed early - felt tired.
Friday 19th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane - Panama Canal
Left Balboa at 5.30pm. Went through canal. Very interesting. Saw lots of other ships. Posted letter to Daddy and Ma, also Jim for birthday. Out of canal by 2pm. Had lunch on deck. Quayacan (tea with coloured flowers on it). Got rougher. Saw beginning of films - walked out. Pretty awful. Played piano in the evening.
Saturday 20th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Deck golf. 4pm, fairly rough all day. Nancy in bed feeling a bit seasick all day. Played some very energetic games of deck quoits and deck tennis with Mollie before lunch. Rested after lunch and then played golf. Beaten, but a much better game than before. Partner not helpful. Played scrabble pm.
Sunday 21st March 1965 - RMS Rangitane- Jamaica
Arrived in Jamaica 6am. Kingston. Drove out 3 hours. Did not swim, but looked on. Very hot and rather uncomfortable coming back.
Monday 22nd March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Had a peaceful day - felt very tired (after 4 aspros in the night!). Slept in deck chair 11am - 1pm, and in the afternoon till 4pm. Had fruit in Molly's cabin, went back to bed till 7pm. Played scrabble after supper, going past Cuba - barren looking place.
Tuesday 23rd March 1965 - RMS Rangitane- Miami
Good day. Watched Nancy do bull board. Watched approach to Miami in the afternoon. Went on evening trip to Miami in bus. Rather fun. Comfortable bus. Enormous amount of hotels, motels etc. Went to a restaurant.
Wednesday 24th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane- Miami
Good day. Set off early in barge to go round canals. Wonderful trip. Saw wonderful yachts, and houses and animals. White peacock and two ordinary ones. Ducks. Back for lunch. After this went ashore on our own and took a taxi to Jordan Marshall's (big department store) walked around with Dutch girl and old lady. Back to ship. Good views going out of harbour.
Thursday 25th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Good day. Race meeting in the evening. Won a race (the Men's - with Henderson leading it).
Friday 26th March 1965 - SS Rangitane
Quiet day. Played scrabble in the evening instead of going to the film, "Ask any Girl." Listened for horses to be given out in drawing room.
tter - 26h March 1965
From - Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell, R.M.S. Rangitane - Aproaching Bermuda.
To - Capt. the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England
Dear Ma and Pa,
Well, now well on the way and should be seeing you soon! We berth at 10.am on Monday 5th April, and so should reach you by the 3.40.pm Yeovil train. I think that is the one that leaves Waterloo by about 1.230 midday.
Anyhow, will ring you from Waterloo or from whatever one I decide to come on. It all depends on how long the customs business goes on, and as long as it doesn't take six hours like Wellington, NZ, all should be well!
We left Miami, Florida, at 5.pm the day before yesterday - this place I was most surprised to find that I thoroughly enjoyed. In fact the U.S. of America was quite thrilling. Tomorrow we land at Bermuda, and Nancy's friend and I and another girl are going to have a peaceful time wandering, with possibly a swim in the ocean. Nancy herself hopes to be met at the ship by a yacht - we hope to see her get off the ship like a pilot!!
This is the only place where we get in a tender and go to the shore in that.
The crossing of the Atlantic some say may be tricky, so many of the unathletic ladies have already done their packing. The sports is nearly finished, which is a good thing. Never have I known so much trouble caused by so few to no purpose except to keep the circulation going. (However, doubtless that's a good thing, and at least no one has gone off their heads or died like they did on the Northern Star.)
I hope you leg is improving, Mummy. We heard that you had all had it pretty cold again.
I must return to the subject of Miami - an area where apparently nothing counts or is made except money. Where one thinks nothing of paying £25 for Bed and breakfast in enormously luxurious hotels. One young taxi driver who took us back from a shopping expedition couldn't help boasting about how rich they were! However, the other drivers were really rather nice - and one felt they were really quite normal - in fact the workers of the place.
When two elderly ladies got lost at the evening expedition and eventually arrived back at the bus after keeping us all waiting for 15 minutes, the driver caused quite a lot of amusement by hoping their mothers would not be worried about them.
Last evening we had a race meeting and I won one of my bets!! Very flat calm today. Reach Bermuda at dawn tomorrow.
Love Pat.
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Saturday 27th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane- Bermuda
Up pretty early. In at dawn. Went on tender to harbour. By bus from Hamilton to St.George's. Interesting little town. Took some slides. Walked up to fort overlooking Convict Bay. Beyond this did a sketch of St.Catherine's Fort. Back and stopped at art gallery. Earl Bailly's. Handicapped artist Mr Brown carried my basket. Bed early.
Convict Bay, Bermuda - 27th March 1965
Sunday 28th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Church at 11am. Quiz in the evening. Only 40 marks. Hermans cocktail party . Make for N.
Monday 29th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Rough day. Played games on top deck. Coffee cups broke. Beaten in dominoes by Mrs Childs. Played on top deck till 3.30pm with Mrs Col. Slept for a bit. Cheer up party in the evening. Scrabble in the lounge.
Tuesday 30th March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Not quite so rough. Played games on top deck and got nice and warm. Charlie Drake in the evening. We played scrabble with Miss Overy M.B.E. from Kendal, Westmoreland in the verandah cafe.
Wednesday 31st March 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Rough again today. Played on top deck with Lady Broome and Mollie and Nancy. Quoits. Also after lunch with Marie Dornauff. In the evening Nancy's congratulations party on her winning of the prizes. Quiz, we only got 42.
Thursday 1st April 1965 - RMS Rangitane
No April Fool's! Mollie late for breakfast. Played games in the morning and afternoon. Farewell dinner, also dance and Mr Smith came down to dinner again after a week's absence. Captain Chadwick presented the prizes and said we might not get in till Tuesday.
Friday 2nd April 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Rather a wet cold day. Played on top deck in wet. In the evening a singsong and some quite nice films about England. Mr Smith did not come to dinner.
Saturday 3rd April 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Goodish day. Sunshine and on top deck a lot. Telegrams sent off and then changed - owing to not arriving on Monday afternoon late. In the evening scrabble. Mr Smith did not come to dinner.
Sundary 4th April 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Cool bright day, packed and played games. Mr Smith not there for supper. Played scrabble, two parties. Nancy and Mollie gave me a brooch.
Letter - 4th April 1965
From - J.A.Heath-Caldwell, c/o P.O. Greeton, NZ
To - Mrs V.M.Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
Dear Ma,
Enclosed a newspaper cutting that I think is quite amusing.
I wrote to you both a week or two ago and enclosed a few cuttings - one was a cartoon about new cars. Also there was an O.T. bible tract (djst?) which said "Where art thou Adam." or words to that effect. Today I enclose something to match it - by Hori which is a pakia nickname for Maori. "To make the square off," - to cover up casually a good story.
I'm a bit bored with this right handed so I sometimes try the left which gives my right hand a rest - but I have to concetrate more on writing.
I'm pushing on with my attempt to join the N.Z. Army. I've been told that I'll have to resign my commission before I become a private. I just think I'll be left handed when I do get into it. The writing reminds me slightly of J.A.Attwood's.
Hope you are all well. If I get a medical check to set Pa's mind at ease I'll let him pay the doctors bills - because I feel well and alive. I hope you do too. It'll cost me 5/-.
Love, Dorian - my new name.
P.S. I've discovered that for 5/- I can change my christian name legally, so I thought I'd do this. I don't have time to get to the cinema these days - and for 5/- I think changing my name will be more entertaining than any film. So I'll be D.A. alias J.A.H.C.I've gone to the trouble to put in the English translation for the Maori words so you can understand it properly
Diary of Miss P.C.M.Heath-Caldwell
Monday 5th April 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Due to arrive Tilbury - Foggy day. Only got as far as Sussex by dawn. Very foggy all day. Walked round deck in the morning. Slept all the afternoon. Mr Smith came down to supper!! Saw Mr Hapgood's films in the evening of New Zealand - very good.,
Tuesday 6th April 1965 - RMS Rangitane
Arrived 3am Tilbury. Gave Mollie's stewardess painting for Mr Smith!! Left Mollie and Nancy at Tilbury. Caught 1pm train to Yeovil Junction. Daddy met me. Got back there were Mr and Mrs Sommerfield and daughter (friends of Jim's) also Joy Knight from Kyvale N.S.W., Australia. Jane and son came to supper,
Wednesday 7th April 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet morning. Talked all the time. Showed some of my slides to Mummy and Daddy. Walked down and saw Mary Cake who went to art class, and gave my apologies to Jane for not going. Did a bit more unpacking. Bed by 11pm.
Thursday 8th April 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet day, more talking. Letter from Corinna Cookson. Finch in the afternoon. Fire in the morning. Lunch in the hut. More talks with Daddy about Jimmy. Rained after lunch. Watched TV at night. Write Nancy, ring Shilly, Fraser's friend. Write Mollie also. Enid and Jack Cookson.
Friday 9th April 1965 - Cattistock
In the morning Mrs Brinkworth came in to see Mummy, and sat for half an hour. After lunch Mrs Holly came in for half an hour. Then went to help Daddy with potatoes before tea. Showed slides in the evening of Jmmmy to Mary Cake.
Saturday 10th April 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet day. Lily came till 11am. Mrs Robinson came at lunch time.
Sunday 11th April 1965 - Cattistock
Went to early service with Daddy. Brinky forgot palms for children. Evening service and film in the hall. Peggy Grant ill. Mrs Robinson came.
Monday 12th April 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet day. Mrs Ginevar came in the morning and massaged Ma's leg. Dr Hereward came in the afternoon. Walked to the end of the garden. Pretty awful programme on telly. Richard Dimbleby about Belsen.
Tuesday 13th April 1965 - Cattistock
Letter from Nancy. Quiet day. Alec Grant came in in the afternoon and saw us all and told us about Peggy. Then Jan came in and I went to see her house.
Wednesday 14th April 1965 - Cattistock
Went into Dorchester at 10.45am with Daddy for him to have a tooth stopped. Rained hard all the time. Saw Mr Shepherd working in Paisons. Tyregate's enlarged and shop next to Judge Jefferies empty. New proprietor in art shop (top of town). Took letter to Peggy in hospital which she replied to in the afternoon. Went to see film in Saville Hall in the evening. Quite good.
Thursday 15th April 1965 - Cattistock
Nothing much doing. No letter from Jimmy.
Friday 16th April 1965 - Cattistock
Lily came for a bit, left at about 11am. Daddy went to 11am service. Jane and her son Charles arrived for tea. Fixed to go to point-to-point tomorrow. Lovely day - sunshine. Had tea out in the hut.
Saturday 17th April 1965 - Cattistock
Dull, wet day. Went to shop. saw Geoffrey Luckock there. Took flowers to church, but it was already decorated. Set off with Jane, her daughter and Nora (Jane's friend) for point-to-point. Very cold and wet. Sat in car, went up to the "Ladies" once - awful. Saw few Morri (Stracton) in the distance. Also Longfords
.
Sunday 18th April 1965 - Cattistock
A bit finer than yesterday. Daddy took 8am service. Mummy and I went to 11am service. Joan Mitchell's mother and sister were there. A friend and her husband in after church. Walk with Pop in the afternoon. Good TV show.
Monday 19th April 1965 - Cattistock
Bad day. Daddy cross at breakfast. Cooked lunch and did quite a few things today. Sat in the hut in the afternoon. Watched TV in night. Cold weather, sleet, showers and hail.
Tuesday 20th April 1965 - Cattistock
Ring Mrs Marsh. Also Margaret Armstrong. Letter from M. Crawford., Newcastle. Quiet morning. Wrote to Anne Fraser. Cold wind still. After lunch moved some wood and walked to Maiden Newton and saw Greenaways. Gave them slide of their mother and sister and children. Amusing TV about sport!! Did not ring Mrs Marsh.
Wednesday 21st April 1965 - Cattistock
Good day. Daddy went to the dentist and I had a bonfire in the garden and played piano. Bicycled to Mrs Leader's for tea. On arrived back found Iris Marsh and Goff, had a chat - they had some sherry and also a large Alsatian dog (the puppy grown up). She showed us pictures of her grandchildren. Daddy's toothache bad, so went to bed early. I fetched some whisky for him from the pub - saw Mr Bull.
Thursday 22nd April 1965 - Cattistock
Quite a fine day in the afternoon and evening. Mrs Kennard came in at tea time, also Winifred and I showed her films of Jimmy. Had lunch and tea out. Daddy was better of the toothache. TV poor in the evening. No letter from Jim, and no parcel.
Friday 23rd April 1965 - Cattistock
Parcel arrived, chair covers successful. No letter from Jimmy. Quiet morning, except for Mrs Egerton who called to see Mummy. Daddy had toothache, Brinky called to see him. After lunch went to Dorchester to take Mummy to the hospital for her leg to be looked at. Daddy went to dentist. I did some shopping. Poor television programme.
Saturday 24th April 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet day. Lily came, and then Mrs Robinson. Cleaned out cupboard in pantry. Made a good supper.
Sunday 25th April 1965 - Cattistock
Daddy went to the early service. Mrs Bibby came to 11 o'clock, cuppa and had sherry. Mrs Greenaway and Pat Parsons came to tea.
Monday 26th April 1965 - Cattistock
Mrs Shepherd called for Parsons. Busy day. Felt very tired. Mrs Shepherd came in the afternoon. I rested all afternoon. Daddy was "off colour". Very cold wind.
Tuesday 27th April 1965 - Cattistock
Lunch 12.55pm with Mrs Kennard. Walked up to Chilfrome House. Mrs Kennard's cousins - a Mrs Findlay and husband, also a Commander were there. He does a lot for the Red Cross. Daddy still feeling off colour. Still a very cold wind.
Wednesday 28th April 1965 - Cattistock
Daddy stayed in bed at last. Wind down - Mrs Musgrove came in the morning. I sat and read detective stories all day. Fed animals and cooked supper in the evening. Mr Addams (Atkins) came and did the fire in the afternoon. Nothing very much on television. Slept better. Letter and card from Lois.
Thursday 29th April 1965 - Cattistock
Warmer day. Old Musgrave came. Dr Hereward called to see Daddy. A fat face diet required!! Fed chickens in the evening. Good programme on the wireless of Sir Malcolm Sargent's 70th birthday. Margaret and Dissa not to come tomorrow - rang them up. Also not going to the Dorchester evening.
Friday 30th April 1965 - Cattistock
Dorchester evening. Did not go. Joyce Padwick. Quite a nice day. Father still rather miserable. Cleaned room in morning. Sent off for some elastic stockings in the afternoon - special offer came by post. (Wigston, Leicester). Fed chickens in the evening. Father came out to do the broody. Elizabeth Barrett-Browning on TV musical in London. Camden Theatre Group,.
Saturday 1st May 1965 - Cattistock
Mollie Walch goes away for 2 days this month. Mrs Robinson could not come as she had been ill in night. Lily came for a few hours. It rained all day - warm. Daddy better but not quite back to normal. I walked down to Mrs Robinson's.
Sunday 2nd May 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet day. Mrs Robinson did not come today. Rained in the evening. I had a headache, so rested. Daddy fed animals in the evening.
Monday 3rd May 1965 - Cattistock
Fine in the morning. Rained in the afternoon. Father fed the chickens in the evening. We were up late watched TV.
Tuesday 4th May 1965 - Cattistock
Mrs Bibby is to leave. Gladys' husband dropped dead yesterday. Mr Geniva to take the funeral. Stories about the Miller - Mundy's and jewels. Went into Dorchester with Daddy. Rested in the afternoon. Mary Cake came up and also Alec Grant popped in. I walked down to the tennis courts, saw the MacDonalds, also Mrs Craft.
Wednesday 5th May 1965 - Cattistock
Good day. Not so much rain. Cleaned room. Ma and Pa's wedding anniversary. Rang up Danny in the evening. Also showed my slides of Rabaul and Australia. Took logs from the Pound in the afternoon. Daddy cut the grass. Pleasant evening. - Take pip to Joyce. Also slides.
Thursday 6th May 1965 - Cattistock
Good day. Went up to get flowers for the funeral of Gladys's husband who fell dead after driving test failure. Arrived at Lower Odcombe for lunch with Constance and Joyce Padwick - took Joyce to the art class afterwards. Came back here by 3pm. Picked up lettuces and got back to Pound House about 3pm. W.I. in the evening. Mrs Shergold coming to see Mummy next Thursday.
Friday 7th May 1965 - Cattistock
Busy all morning getting food ready for lunch party. Made a cake and biscuits. Margaret and Dissa arrived before lunch. Had an excellent lunch, some cooked by Lily. After lunch walked in garden and showed them the sheep etc. Early tea and they left by 4pm approx. Went round and saw Mrs Wills about hymns. Most peculiar play on TV about God etc.
Saturday 8th May 1965 - Cattistock
Quiet day. Lily came in the morning. I slept most of the afternoon.
Sunday 9th May 1965 - Cattistock
Daddy took the services. I went to 11am, down with Mrs Wills in back of car. Lots of people there. Did not go in the evening.
Monday 10th May 1965 - Cattistock
Lovely sunny day. Did room. Mummy went round to see Mrs Bibby. After lunch sat in garden. Daddy went to dentist in the morning. Mr Musgrave came. Also Mr Shepherd in the morning. Panorama awful.
Tuesday 11th May 1965 - Cattistock
Spring cleaned the garden room in the morning. Sat outside in the afternoon. Lovely sunny day again. Tea out. Went to the tennis courts in the evening, collected 7/6 from Giblett child.
Wednesday 12th May 1965 - Cattistock
Good day. Glorious weather. A sheep and two lambs missing in morning. Lily and I went searching, but got to Malletts, did not find the sheep. Back and Daddy found it up with the Cuswells! He and (?) brought it back by 12mid. Then a bit late for lunch 12.30mid at Ronald's at Frome-St-Quentin. Had nice lunch and told them about their relations in Aussie. Lots of gossip. Jane came to late tea and collected sheep. Went and saw Mrs Grant. Good letter from Jimmy in the morning.
Thursday 13th May 1965 - Cattistock
Went to lunch with Joyce Padwick and Constance. Also another sister. Took Joyce to art class and dropped the sister back at Lower Odcombe after a trip round W. Coker. Tennis in the evening with Langfords and Hodson.
Friday 14th May 1965 - Cattistock
Another lovely day. Very hot. Went and saw Mr Hodson about accounts. Ye Gods what have I taken on? Huge pile of letters enclosed in WEA from Enid's. Sat in the sun in afternoon. Tennis in the evening. Brinkworths back. He came in to see us at supper time.
Saturday 15th May 1965 - Cattistock
Owe 2/6 T.Box. Another fine day. Lily stayed for a bit. Slept in the afternoon. Very hot.
Sunday 16th May 1965 - Cattistock
Went to the 9.30am family communion with Daddy. Quite a nice service I thought. Daddy did not, Quite a hot day in parts. Ros rang up about Tring on June 4th.
Monday 17th May 1965 - Cattistock
Not quite so fine. Washing in the morning. Showers. Lily's husband changing jobs soon, will she leave? After lunch went to tea with Mrs Egerton as she had called in the morning to ask me to go. She is worried about her brother who is ill in Grimsby. Wet evening. TV all about Germans. Letter from Nancy.
Tuesday 18th May 1965 - Cattistock
Coolish day. Watched the Queen arriving in Germany on TV. Rained a lot. Stayed in most of the day, because it was so unpleasant.
Wednesday 19th May 1965 - Cattistock
Mrs Ronald came in in the morning. Bicycled to Maiden Newton and got coffee from the station. Lots of people went to the W.I. 50 years anniversary at Charlborough Park. I did not. Very nice at home instead. Played tennis in the evening.
Thursday 20th May 1965 - Cattistock
Mummy walked round to Peggy Grant's in the morning. Molly Kennard came in for a cuppa. Sat in the garden after lunch - quite hot. In the evening watched TV. Did not go to tennis.
Friday 21st May 1965 - Cattistock
Rather a cool day.Went to shop. They seemed to not want to serve me! Won't go again if I can help it. Took Mummy to the art exhibition of Horace and Philippa Coltby. Good. Lovely day down near Burton Bradstock. Back at 5pm. After 5 went round to see Mrs Trendell's house. Very nice. Also saw Pam's dress for the garden party. Appeal for the Red Cross in Pakistan.
Saturday 22nd May 1965 - Cattistock
Good day. Lily came in the morning.
Sunday 23rd May 1965 - Cattistock
Made a cake. Went to Evensong with Daddy.
Monday 24th May 1965 - Cattistock
Rained, so we did not do washing, but instead Daddy and I went into Dorchester, both Geroge's and Thurmans shut on Mondays. The guys came in the afternoon. He had been to Jim's wedding and held up the sheaves of corn!
Tuesday 25th May 1965 - Cattistock
Letter from Ros. Black sheep out early with lamb. Lane rang up 8.30am went down the lane with Pop found them in Cresswell's field. Headache in the afternoon. Rested. Tennis in the evening, and draw. Watched Compact on TV. Also Malcolm Muggeridge who was quite clever. Peggy's garden looks nice for the art.
Wednesday 26th May 1965 - Cattistock
Art Peggy's. Went downt o Mrs Mac's at 10am for her to help me with the accounts. Then on to Peggy's for art, it was a miserable day. Only Alix was in the yard painting in her car, also Mrs Brinkworth inside. Sat outside and got wet. Went back for lunch. Jane came over to bring plough, and then I went back. Jane came to tea afterwards. Much gossip!
Thursday 27th May 1965 - Cattistock
Rather a dullish to fine day, better than yesterday. Drove to Lower Odcombe and had a lovely lunch with the Padwicks. Back at 4pm, and the Ronalds turned up to tea as expected. No tennis today.
Friday 28th May 1965 - Cattistock
Cool wind.Went down to Maiden Newton in morning to take tennis money. Went on and saw Mrs Hereward. After lunch, went on with box, and Mr Hodson came in about cheque. Watched TV, did not go to tennis.
Saturday 29th May 1965 - Cattistock
Very cold wind. Daddy went off to Jane's to sheer sheep. Joyce Ronald picked Mummy and I up and took us to Melboury House as the gardens were open to the public. Lovely place. Pictures of the heir who was killed in Cyprus. Back and had tea at Frome St.Quintin with the Ronalds. Daddy back late, we few ducks, one ill - it died. Tennis.
Sunday 30th May 1965 - Cattistock
Daddy went to the early service. Wind still cold. I went to Chilfrome at 6.30pm by bike.
Monday 31st May 1965 - Cattistock
Good day. Warmer. Made cakes all morning, and then fetched the Padwick's in the afternoon. Good tea party. Took Ma back for the trip. Rotten TV. Tomorrow to take - slides, Plenty of money.
Tuesday 1st June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Puppy show (this month, Marlborough). Nothing very much. Margaret Crawford's letter written April 12th, 65. been home a week. Trip to America and the Far East. Called at Auckland and Suva. (11 ports), with Margaret Marks at San Francisco (2 days). (Margaret had worked in Boston). Down to Los Angeles. A day at Disneyland. Vancouver (raining). Back to Hawaii (Waikiki Beach), Good swimming. Japan, Tokyo. Br slide a proj £8 Kobe Kyoto. Hong Kong, Manila, Whitsundays(Passage of Queensland).
Wednesday 2nd June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Bath & West. If early. Forestry Section, if lunch time members lunch tent - Set off at 9am in Mrs Craft's car with Miss Bird and Mrs Aldridge. Arrived at Bath & West Show at Shepton Mallet at 10am. Saw Mrs Atkinson and yearling - no prize. Left them and went to forestry tent where I met Nancy. Then met Donald Shaw of old times. Walked everywhere. Saw Mr Galloway, also Mrs Langford in C.L.A., at lunch. Man upset flowers over Nancy. One woman's chair collapsed. Back after 5.30pm. I felt very ill and was sick on arrival, so went straight to bed.
Thursday 3rd June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Up at 8.45am. Sketched fir tree in the garden all morning. Had lunch and went on to Mollie Walch's cottage at Dewington (Donnington?). Saw more photos and slides. Her sister-in-law's sister was oil painting in the garden on her stomach. Set off after tea. Reached Pavilion 6.45pm. Had lovely supper. Good concert, "The Yeoman of the Guard," - back at Pound House by 11.30pm. Mollie's dog was quite good.
Friday 4th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Nancy and I and Molly walked along the lane with the dogs (except Ben). They left about 11am. Daddy went into Dorchester on his own. Quiet day. Had a bit of tennis in the evening.
Saturday 5th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Lily came at 8am. Left with daughter by bus for Dorchester at 10am. Quiet day. Daddy rang up Harold Giblin to come to tea tomorrow. Joyce away. Silly Brian Rix play about Germans, golf, and sailors.
Sunday 6th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Went to the early service with Daddy. Harold came to tea and supper. Saw slides of New Zealand. Alec Grant came in.
Monday 7th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Up early for us. Lily's day off. Washed some clothes in the morning. Fine day. Wrote some letters in the afternoon. Good pay on TV.
Tuesday 8th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Dull day, progressed to heavy rain about 5pm. Did washing in the morning. After lunch rested and slept. Daddy depressed - why? Rang Ros in the evening, and Danny rang us at 10pm. good concert at 10.20pm. Schumann's piano concerto. Ironing. Posted letters to M. Crawford. C.Cassels, A.Scott.
Wednesday 9th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
A bit brighter. No rain to speak of. Cleaned room in morning. Also bathroom. Played the organ in the afternoon. Letter from Miss McDonald about the Chinese girl - Mary McDonald. She is very homesick and sent to an unchristian household. Watched TV at night. Mrs Jackson is staying in the village, either Culvers or Fuller's Earth. Took her the advert in the Times. Daddy read Russian philosophy to us. Fairly interesting. Cannot locate W.I. book. Lipperts out.
Thursday 10th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quite a warm day in parts. Made a cake. Tried to find W.I.book. In the end Mrs (blank) (organist) had it. After tea went to tennis. Mr Rowden gave me a lift back.
Friday 11th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Went into town. Did shopping. Met Mary Cake outside Paisons. Had a cup of coffee and spent one hour talked with son (Rupert) at Genge's. Back 1pm. Went to see a place beyond Burton Bradstock and got stuck in the sand. Got unstuck by the farmer with his landrover. Quiet evening. Did not go watching badgers with Mary C.
Saturday 12th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Fete Mrs Ronald. Lily here in the morning. Took Mummy up to the fete in the afternoon. Saw Ruth H., also Grants, Ardaghs etc. Had tea in the garden. Saw the doll's house. Back and played tennis in the evening for one hour with Hereward boys. They made more than £100 at the fete.
Sunday 13th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy went to the early service. Mrs Marriot died 5am today. Went to the evening service - not many people there.
Monday 14th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Lily did washing. Hot, airless day. Had lunch and tea out. Went to shop with order in the morning, sat in the hut in the afternoon.
Tuesday 15th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Wet day. Went into Dorchester with Daddy all morning. Good letter from Cousin Fred. (Palmer). After lunch walked to Mrs Mac's - about Mrs Marriott's wreath. Then to Mrs Wills.They were both out. TV in the evening and played the piano.
Wednesday 16th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Rainy dull day. Did more of the things I intended except made a cake. Organ man doing it in the afternoon. Mr Hedger came 9am to measure for the curtains in the dining room. Mr Hodson came early with some bills for the tennis club. Cuckoo Clock put up in the evening. Letter from Ros. Unpleasant play about War in America.
Thursday 17th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Fete - Joan's. Finish day. Did not go to the Padwick's. Took Mummy and various other people to the fete. They made £82 - not so much at Frome St.Quintain. We came away as early as possible. In Joan's stables.
Friday 18th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Set off with Daddya t 10.30am. Awful drive - doing 50mph all the time. Reached there at 1.45pm, man not there, he turned up after a bit. Back at 6pm. Bumped car at corner coming into Cattistock. Twins there, John and Ros arrived later from seeing David at Sherborne. Had supper and talked. Did not see my slides.
Saturday 19th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Ros and John went off early to a service in the chapel at Sherborne, followed by speeches. Back for a late lunch with David. Went on again at 3.30pm to a cricket match. Back at 6pm. More food. Then Daddy, I and John and Ros went off to the play at Sherborne. David was the littlest "devel" the "Devil to Pay" by Dorothy Sayers. Very good - services.
Sunday 20th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Glorious fine day. John fetched David after D's church. Quiet day. They left at 5pm. David stayed till 8pm. We took him to Sherborne.
Monday 21st June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Washing morning. Rained in the evening. Father took the car to see about it. Otherwise rather ordinary. Played organ in the evening.
Tuesday 22nd June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Went to coffee morning with Ma. For Cancer at the Rectory. They made £14.55. Quite good. Ma found some old music which I played all afternoon! Compact in the evening. Twinkle got lost! Daddy wanted to whip him!
Wednesday 23rd June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Nothing much doing. Had neuralgia in the night.
Thursday 24th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Morning tea, Mrs Weaver. Set off 11am. Cold wind. Found that they knew Genesta (Daddy's cousin). In the evening the Bishop came to an evening service for Parochial church councillors. Saw a parson in the road. I did not go,but wrote letters.
Friday 25th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Very wet miserable day. Mary O'Neill arrived by 11am train from Yeovil. Daddy went into Dorchester in car. After lunch we went in and took Lily with us, and picked up another woman we did not know. Back for tea at the Pound - chocolate cake good. Walked up to Mrs Henning's house with Mary. She then looked at my slides. Took her to Dorchester where she was picked up.
Saturday 26th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Fine day. Wrote letters to Jimmy and to Miss Haggett. Cooking in the morning. After lunch met Mrs Wills in the street, went and played the organ to her. Went down and had some watching of tennis in the evening.
Sunday 27th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
7.30am service. Herewards slides. Lovely day. Went to the early service with Mummy. Played the piano in the evening. Terrific slide show in the afternoon with the Brinkworths there too.
Monday 28th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Lovely day, quite hot. Sewed in the afternoon. Various people came to mend things etc. Went to meet, new people coming into Mrs Bibby's house in the evening. Lot of other people there too. Mrs Egerton, Brinkworths etc. 6pm. Mrs Bibby to meet McDermots.
Tuesday 29th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Had Weavers over for tea. Quite a success.
Wednesday 30th June 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Ring Mollie. Garden Party for Ma!. Salisbury. Mollie Walch coming to go over to Abbotsbury 11am. Mummy and Daddy did not go to the garden party. Mollie's arrival at 11.15am and dog and slides. Went to Burton Bradstock, then to Abbotsbury. Had lunch. Walked up to St.Catherine's chapel and round it. Back and then went up to Hardy's Monument. Back for tea. School party in the evening. Jumble sale etc. Slept out. Quite a success.
Thursday 1st July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quite a nice day. Biked to Maiden Newton in the morning. Met old Mr Gee in the street. Long chat - he has been round the world - Australia, Africa and Suez. Then saw Mr Gould. Walked back with Mrs Pullan. Heard about the family, had morning tea in the garden. Women's Institute in the evening. Mrs Eyres talked on pot plants - showed china at Mrs Kennards.
Friday 2nd July 1965 - Oxford
Set off early from Maiden Newton 11.51am, only just caught train as Pearce's forgot to call for me. Arrived Oxford 3.51pm after lots of changes. Danny met me and all the children. Garden looks lovely. Had tea out. Danny looks thin.
Saturday 3rd July 1965 - Oxford
Mrs Bibby to supper. Salad. Reunion 11am. St.Margarets. Ros came down to lunch from Birdfield, and she and I set off for S.M.B. after lunch. met Miss Binney, Miss Pullen, Bovill, Hilda Evans, Margaret Evans, Mary Pickles, Mary Sharp, Rachel Hancock, Miss Cole. Had tea, left 5.10pm. Back at Danny's at 6.10pm. Had supper with Ros, saw some cine camera pictures.
Sunday 4th July 1965 - Oxford
Nearly lost my temper at breakfast when Danny mentioned my petticoat. After lunch went to Shotover Park and walked round. A nice place.
Monday 5th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Left Danny's at 11am with her and Sophie to Oxford. Reached Maiden Newton at 3.30pm. Daddy there to meet me. Amanda and GIles not there to see me off. disappointing.
Tuesday 6th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Judith Green. Felt frightfully exhausted. The Greens came to lunch. Very nice. He looks hearty and ill. Rested a bit in the afternoon. Drove off to Gillingham in Mr Mac's car with Mr Hodson and Jenny Hansford. Raining when we reached Gillingham. Match off till next Wednesday.
Wednesday 7th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Frenches coming to tea - Felt a bit better after a good night's sleep. French's came to tea, nice people. Played organ from 7pm - 8pm. Went to Dorchester in the morning with Mummy and Daddy. Very crowded. Saw a new car which I liked and have arranged for them to come out and show me.
Thursday 8th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Still feeling tired! Little car brought out by salesman. Mr Abbott from Dorchester. Mummy and I and him and Twinkle went for a drive to Evershot. Said yes to it. Slept all the afternoon. Quiet evening. Played tennis with Hereward boys, saw Brinky.
Friday 9th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
(crossed out - Bournemouth with Mary Milborne 24p post) - Played organ 10am - 10.30pm. Then went to Peggy's for art day. Finished sketch started last time. Mrs Hall criticized our paintings, and was very complimentary to Peggy. Had tea and came back and had another tea. Played organ also in the evening.
Saturday 10th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Brinky came in 10am to show me the hymns. Dull wet day. Mrs Kennard came to tea, and took me back to Chilfrome church where I practiced the organ after I had got it open with Mrs Egerton's help. Still aching a bit.
Sunday 11th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Went down at 10.30am to the rectory and he took me off in the car, and successful service. Also a success in the evening.
Monday 12th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy took Mummy and I into Dorchester. We did shopping and fetched the new car out. Mummy came with me and enjoyed it.
Tuesday 13th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Very damp wet day. Taylor from Hector Powe came to fit Daddy for a suit. Daddy taking Mummy to Danny's? We got them off at 11.45am. After that Lily did his study. I practiced the piano all afternoon. And also for two hours in the evening. Watched compact and then rang up Mummy.
Wednesday 14th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
(Stonebridge - Mollie Walch - crossed out). Match in the evening. Washed clothes in the morning. Lovely fine day. Daddy arrive back 3pm. Cuppa in the garden. Lily borrowed my bike to go to Maiden Newton. At 6pm went along to the McDonald's house. Driven to Gillingham. Lovely fine day. Lost all our matches. Daddy went to drinks with McDermott in the evening.
Thursday 15th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Ironed clothes in the morning. Gave Daddy a boiled egg! Tired after match. Tried to sleep in the afternoon. Practiced organ in the evening.
Friday 16th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Mary O'Neill came by 11am train. Took her to Brinky's to get hymns, and went on to Mr Kennard's in the afternoon. Then on to Eggerdon Hill. After tea walked her up to Henning's house, found the matress out in the garden, just like that. Took Mary back in the evening, left 7.45pm. Back at 9.15pm.
Saturday 17th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Lovely here in morning. Did lunch. Practiced organ at 4pm. Left light on in the church. Brinky came to tea and told us so. Fine day, had tea out.
Sunday 18th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
9.30am Family Communion service. Forgot the "Thanks be to Thee." Had lunch out and tea. Evening service at Chilfrome. Brinky took me down and brought me back. Bed fairly early. Amanda's birthday.
Monday 19th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Wet day, so no washing. Rested in the afternoon. Listened to a play on the wireless by Somerset Maugham. Went down to tennis - none. Mr Hodson very ill in hospital. Picked fruit.
Tuesday 20th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Slightly finer in the morning going on to thunder and heavy showers in the afternoon and evening. Went into Dorchester, took flowers to Mr Hodson. Letter from Enid and Jack, how Jimmy had been to them for the night. He had also seen Dora!! Not so good. Letter from Mum in the afternoon. She is OK. Watched compact. Bottled fruit. Started jam.
Wednesday 21st July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Finished jam in the morning and got ready for Cousin Posy to come. Letter from Aunty Flora in the afternoon. (Flora Heath). Cousin Posy arrived after tea. Gave her a cheese soufle, also salmon and salad and strawberries. Saw my slides and liked them and asked intelligent questions. Bed at 11pm.
Thursday 22nd July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Kit (Tatham-Warter?) died 5 years ago. Cousin Posy departed about 11am after making a false start, left something behind, so came back for it. Picked fruit, and mended Pop's pants in the afternoon listening to the wireless as I did. Practiced the organ and played a game of tennis with Celia Thorne in the evening. Ros rang Daddy up, Alex Hume retiring from leadership of the party.
Friday 23rd July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Nothing much to report, except that Daddy went up sketching in the afternoon on the hill. Brinky came round at 3.30pm to decide the hymns. Went and did some practicing on the organ.
Saturday 24th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Busy day, went down to Chilfrome in the afternoon in my mini to practice the organ, Mrs Giblett came in and her daughter is better. Someone is in the churchyard cutting the grass.
Sunday 25th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy went to the early service and Peggy Grant asked him to drinks. Morning service at Chilfrome, evening here. Plenty of voluntaries. Mrs Kennard came to tea. Daddy sketched on the hill.
Monday 26th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Symphony No.39 in E.Flat - Daddy and I set off at 11.45am to fetch Ma. Stopped outside Salisbury and had a picnic. Then I took over. Met Danny, Mummy, Amanda and Giles this side of Newbury, and exchanged Mummy. Daddy felt bad, so sat in back of car with a blanket over his head. We arrived back at 5.45pm. I fed fowls. Pop went to bed.
Tuesday 27th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Pop rested in bed all day, but got up in between. Bottled some black currents - Jane and Charles Queesy (?) and a French boy turned up at tea time and played around with Twinkle, and took some straw away.
Wednesday 28th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quiet day, but much done, also very dull and clouded. Picked more fruit and started jelly. Picked red currants too. Mrs Egerton rang up and asked me to drinks which I did not want to go to. Neither did Mummy. Daddy went up to the downs to go on with his sketch. Heard "The Marriage of Figaro" by Mozart on the proms in the eveninhg. Interview of Mr Heath by Robin Day.
Thursday 29th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Fairly good day, nearly all spent in kitchen making jelly and cakes. Souffle (which was a success) in the evening. Practiced the organ for a bit. Old man came about vermin and will bring stuff for beatles some time. Daddy out sketching on hill, it is improving.
Friday 30th July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Good day. Went to Brinkworths in the afternoon almost in the middle of a thunderstorm. She wanted me to do something about twins in S.Perrott. Fixed up the hymns. Daddy went to drinks at Mrs Egerton's, met McDermott, also Hare's, Kennard and an admiral. Back late, then he had fed the hens.
Saturday 31st July 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Mrs Bushrod's funeral. Lily here early, and went just at 10am to catch bus in to Dochester. Got lunch - funeral at 2.30pm. Quite a success. Hymn "Rock of Ages," "The Lord is my Shepherd" and "Nie Dihitis." Burt gave me a fee for the church! Went to Chilfrome and practiced. Brinky rang late about the other service - hymns.
Sunday 1st August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy not in good form. Played up here for morning. Quite hot in between. Sat in the garden. Evensong at Chilfrome.
Monday 2nd August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Rained through night. This is usually Bank Holiday - Rained very hard all day till 7pm. Daddy and I went into Dorchester. Roads very crowded as we got in. Went to library. Saw Mrs Salvi in Parsons. Rested a bit in the afternoon. Went to tea with Mrs Egerton, played organ at Chilfrome and came back by Maiden Newton due to floods.
Tuesday 3rd August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Still a bit rainy at times. Floods in some placed. left here 12.15pm for the Greens. Went through a flood then got muddled up about the map. Reached the Greens late. A Mrs Winter was there. Related to the Harrisons. Back at 4pm. Stopped in Yeovil for a coat for Jimmy. Watched the new programme instead of Compact - poor!
Wednesday 4th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Set off at 10.30am for Dewington(?). Arrived 12.30am. Immediately set off for Slimbridge with Molly and dog. Lovely drive there, weather got finer. Left about 4pm to see the Stoneys. No need to have gone, actually. Watched TV. Slimbrigde a nice place, Molly asked me to go again tomorrow, so I rang up Ma about it.
Thursday 5th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Left about 11am for Slimbridge. Had a nice picnic on Uley Tumulus. Lovely day. Spent afternoon at Slimbridge, got back at 8pm. Looked at the books by Peter Scott.
Friday 6th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Spending a day at Bryanston School. Left Molly 11.15am. Back here at 1.30pm. Had lunch. Peggy took my pictures in the morning to the exhibition. Walked up to see Mrs Wills in the evening. She gave me some writing paper. Very nice of her. The serial "Park Lane 199" is awful, I think.
Saturday 7th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Lovely day. Played organ in the morning till 11.30am. Lily left early. Brinky in church. After lunch washed clothes. Tennis courts not fit to play on, must do something about them I suppose. An amusing play on - also, Flying Swan - good.
Sunday 8th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy went to 8.30am service. Cooked the lunch. Alex Grant came round to see Daddy in the morning. Daddy not very well today. Slept in the afternoon. Mummy and I went to the evening service.
Monday 9th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quite a nice hot day. In the morning picked fruit (raspberries), did dogs (two ticks on Twinkle). After lunch read Charles II and slept in the garden. Nothing much in the evening. Nice day. Singapore over to Chinese, but we still have a port there.
Tuesday 10th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quite a nice day. Picked fruit in the morning. After lunch went down to the Luckocks with book Mrs L has lent me. Then motored to Maiden Newton for hair sets for Mummy. Peggy and Alec came in the evening. Tennis courts cut, but no one playing. Bed early.
Wednesday 11th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
A lovely day. Picked raspberries for the Grants. Picked up Mrs Ronald and took her to Bryanston School. Great afternoon, Nancy, Mollie and another friend turned up. Nancy had a puncture. Mollie had put a fork through her foot. Mrs Dean's sister was there, selling goods. Back here at 6pm. Tennis with Richard Langford and Celia. Awful play on TV.
Thursday 12th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Another lovely hot day. Fruit picking and dogs on the morning. Went to Bryanston School to get pictures in the afternoon, also Peggy's. Hot day. Back at night. TV silly.
Friday 13th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Another hot day. Met Mrs Brinkworth in shop, who said Mrs Egerton was ill. Walked to see her after lunch - she was up. Played organ in the church and walked back.
Saturday 14th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Sale Mrs French's. Another hot day. Lunch being cooked in the morning. Went to the French's sale at Stoke Abbott. A bit cooler there, but very pleasant. Daddy came too. Gilbert and Sullivan on the Proms in the evening. Danny and family started holiday in Cornwall.
Sunday 15th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Another sunny day. 9.30am service - Holy Communion. Lily and Alexis there. Daddy stiff - resting after yesterday. Frants(?) at the service too. Sat in the garden in the afternoon.
Monday 16th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Another lovely day. Went into Dorchester in the morning with Daddy to the library. After lunch sat in the garden, wrote to Joyce Padwick and to Nancy. Played the organ in the evening. Joyce Ronald rang up and wants them (Parents) to tea or supper on Friday.
Tuesday 17th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Brinkworth's bring and buy sale. They only make £6. Five people there. Went down to Eype in the afternoon. Did not swim. Just sat on the beach. Very nice. Back by 6pm. (Tibor?) about faith healing.
Wednesday 18th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quiet day. Wrote a letter to Joyce Blair in the afternoon. (23 Murnins Streete, Wallsend, NSW) as I had not written for so long. Dreadful play on the evening on TV.
Thursday 19th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Up at 6am and out picking raspberries. Spent all day getting supper ready for the Brinkworths. Rested in the afternoon. Read Lily's clothes book. Brinkworths and their friend arrived at 7.45pm. Had 'buffet' supper, Daddy surprised. Aspic jelly with chicken in it - not hard enough, and salad. Raspberry cream. Showed slides.
Friday 20th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Went down and saw Mary Cake, in bed, not looking very well at all. Went to tea with the Ronalds at Frome St Quintain. Played tennis in the evening with Barbara MacDonald and friend. Barbara 21 tomorrow.
Saturday 21st August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Cooked in morning, after Lily had gone. Went to see Mary Cake after seeing the horticultural show. Mrs Kennard popped in with her two grandchildren. She opened the show in a new hat!!
Sunday 22nd August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy went to the early service. Went down to Mary's on bike with cakes and bath tablets. Mum and Dad went to Sherborne. I went here - good sermon. Half fed chickens.
Monday 23rd August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quiet day. Went to see Mary Cake in the afternoon, she is still in bed. Played organ in the evening for an hour. Went and saw Mrs Egerton in the afternoon. She lent me a book by Warna - queer. Wants some biographies. Does not look at all well.
Tuesday 24th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Brinky had a service at 8.30am. Went down to Mary's, after sending a telegram for flowers to Aunt Iny (Palmer). Spent morning with Mary. She has a helper. Still does not look well. Rained in the afternoon. Made a cake and went to Maiden Newton. Went to Renvoze for a programme for the show on Saturday
.
Wednesday 25th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quiet day, not very fine. Went down to see Mary who is going to hospital. Waiting for the ambulance. Saw Brinky on the way down.
Thursday 26th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Can't think what I did, except went and saw Mary Cake in room on her own in Dorchester Hospital (observation).Next to the old men's ward! Amusing for her. Wettish day. John rang in the evening. Little Taylor came to fit Daddy. I missed him. Daddy's suit nearly finished.
Friday 27th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Daddy went into Dorchester. Made bread and cake. Bread burnt, cake sank!! Went into Dorchester and saw Mary Cake in the evening in big ward. She seems much better.
Saturday 28th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Wet day. Took down Jam, jelly, cake and bread. Won two 3rd prizes for jam and Jelly. Rested in the afternoon. Fetched things in the evening.
Sunday 29th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Mr Ginever preached here. Marie Donnauf free for 3 weeks. Good service, many people. Daddy and I went. Danny and John and family arrived at 1.30pm. In very good form. We played bowls in the pm.
Monday 30th August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
(Concert at Springhead). Danny and John and Sophie left about 11am. Left half their things behind. We chased after them, but the queue of cars was too bad beyond Wrackleford, so Giles and I came back. I rested in the afternoon. Amanda and I and Mrs Rondel left at 5.30pm. Got to the concert at the overture at Springhead . Beautiful lazy drive. Saw Mike Stratton.
Tuesday 31st August 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock
Quiet day, because we were tired. I had a headache. However went to Dorchester in the afternoon with Mummy, Amanda and Giles. Bought plaster of paris for them.
Wedneday 1st September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Marie arriving 6.54pm. Dorchester bus from Victoria. Went to tea with Mrs Ronald, to see Doll's House. Amanda and Giles are very good. Went into Dorchester and picked up Marie Dornauf, looking very brown.
Thursday 2nd September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Dochester Show - Went to Dorchester Show at Cave Park. On the way back followed Jean Stratton for a bit. Saw flower tent, and watched jumping.
Friday 3rd September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Went to Yeovil swimming pool in the morning. Very hot and stuffy in it. After lunch went for walk up on the downs. Saw a red deer at Mary Cake's farm. Saw them on our way back. Practiced organ in the evening at Cattistock.
Saturday 4th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Busy day. Lunch. Fete in the village hall for the village hall. Helped Peggy do hens, white elephant stall. Took Marie Dornauf down to Chilfrome Church. Played organ a bit.
Sunday 5th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Play organ at Chilfrome (evening). Daddy went to the early service. I took Marie and the two children to 11am. Went to Eggerdon Hill by car for a walk. Evening service alright at Chilfrome. Michael Brinkworth there.
Monday 6th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Meet Nancy with Marie Dornauf - Set off at 10.30am for Mere. Stopping at Sherborne and showed her the Abbey. Did some shopping. Met Nancy at Mere, and had lunch at the Ship Inn. Back home by 3.30pm. Letters from Jimmy, and parcel for children from Danny. Jimmy had given Dora a car!! Quiet evening with TV!
Tuesday 7th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Went into Dorchester to take my car to be mended with Giles and Amanda. Came back by train. Saw Boys, Alec and Peggy sketching the church. Went back to Dorchester by train with Amanda and got the car. Came back and took them both into Yeovil to swimming baths. Quiet evening. Cooking and watching 199 - poor. Ugly people.
Wednesday 8th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Quiet day. Raining and wet in the morning. Took Mummy and the children into Yeovil to the swimming pool which they enjoyed. We saw there was an accident between two Minis when we came out. Yeovil show tomorrow. Had a sing song in the evening.
Thursday 9th September 1965 - Diana's place
Embroidery wool. Library books. Marie. Bath mat? - Suggest take Giles back at. Call at Salisbury - Left at 10.30am. Arrived Salisbury at 12.05pm. Kathy not ready for us so we waited till 1pm. Eventually got away and went to Divrington where I dropped the letter for Marie. Mollie out. On and arrived Thame at 4.30pm. Lots of stops en route, but quite fun.
Friday 10th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
John brought me a cup of tea in bed! Did some shopping at Polters ironmongering etc. Left at 11.30am. Went by Abingdon, Wantage. Stopped after Salisbury. Did shopping in Dorchester. Home by 3.45pm. All well. 199 on TV, very poor.
Saturday 11th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Lily came early. More of my things have come , fit well. Slept in the afternoon. Last night of the proms good. Look up Elizabeth's second name.
Sunday 12th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy and Mummy went to the early service. I slept in the afternoon. Went to Evensong and heard Rev. Tripass preach well and clearly.
Monday 13th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
1st choral practice. No (luch?) bulbs in - Bad day, although it started well. Ma did the cooking. I went to see Mary Cake and her mother in the afternoon. On to Maiden Newton. Mrs Ginivar massaged Mummy. Went round to Mrs Robinson's to know about the choral - but she had not come back from Yeovil. Did not go ? B.MacDonald might come with us. Planted Hyacinth bulbs.
Tuesday 14th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Quite a busy day getting ready to go to Madelaine's. It did not actually rain. Mummy cooked in the morning, and was very bad tempered by tea time! Did some washing and washed hair. Mr Palmer came round to see Daddy and told him how Edward Pope had been found dead at the Norfolk Broads where he had been on a yachting holiday. ? Suicide.
Wednesday 15th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Felt very miserable and ill. Stayed in bed for breakfast and lunch. Mummy and Daddy went down to see old Jessy - who was in good form considering - Edward had a weak heart. Got up for tea and came down when Mrs Kennard came to tea. Rained all day.
Thursday 16th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Got up and did room in the morning. Mummy did the cooking. I walked down and saw Mrs Robinson in the afternoon, and I also went to Mrs Egerton's with the book she had lent me, took Twinkle. Fairly fine afternoon and evening. Good festival concert on TV.
Friday 17th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Rained hard all day. Headlines in the Western Gazette about Edward. Inquiry later, got to wait for post mortem. Rested in the afternoon. Walked round to Barbara's in the evening - she will come too on Monday. Friday night is music night - good.
Saturday 18th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Lily came early. I did the cooking, but its difficult to concentrate with Mummy around!! Rested in the afternoon, and Mrs Wills came with some biscuits for me, then we went over and played the organ together before tea. Mummy laid table the night before.
Sunday 19th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
We all went to 9.30am service. Quite a lot there. The Luckocks and Peggy and Alex came back to the Pound afterwards. Watched the Abbey service on TV - good. Also "Reach for the Skies" in the evening
Monday 20th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Look at bulbs. 1st week hyacinths - Ma lost her bag - found in church 11.15am. Letter from Mrs Rogers. Children had tonsils out, Dora still limps!! Went into Dorchester at 11.30am. Missed a few shops. Met Jan, and had a talk. Went to Blandford to singing in the evening - took Barbara MacDonald with us. Came back by Cerne Abbas. They seemed pleased to see me!
Tuesday 21st September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Mrs Jonks, Blandford 3pm - Lovely day. Had a bonfire in the morning. Took Mummy over to Tremworth, near Blandford where we found the girl who knitted the lovely jumpers. Had tea with them - a nice pair. Back about 6pm.
Wednesday 22nd September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Just art class. Another lovely hot day in the middle. Did bonfire. Sat in the hut in the afternoon. Did a quick trip to Maiden Newton before tea. Took Mrs Banfield to the art class with Mary Cake. Drew Squeezy in the new building. Two or three new-comers, including Miss Wreker from Compton Valance. A nice little thing. Put in more daffodils and tulips.
Thursday 23rd September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Quiet day. Did bonfire. Went and got more bulb fibre from Maiden Newton.
Friday 24th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
E. Pope Memorial Service. Went into Dorchester to library in the morning. Went to the service taken at 2.30pm by "Brinky." Very effusive service and sermon. Crowds of men from the factory! Walked round to Lily's house afterwards with Mummy. The Brinkworths came to tea.
Saturday 25th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Tripasses to tea. Good day. I cooked lunch. Tripasses to tea. Nice people. Took her round the house, she knew about acting.
Sunday 26th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy went to the early service. We went to the 6.30pm evensong. Very good sermon from Mr Tripass. Good TV in the evening.
Monday 27th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
L.O.B. 2nd Hyacinths daffodils. 1 tulip planted today. Went down early to Maiden Newton about an appointment for Mummy. Flat tyre - new one 6-10-6. Went down and got a new one 4pm. Mrs Ginevar came to massage Mummy but she only succeeded in putting her in a bad temper! Mum and I walked up to the Allen's in the morning. McDermott and Mrs Allen to drinks. Jane coming
Tuesday 28th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Alright. Jane did not turn up, just as well.
Wednesday 29th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Lovely day till evening. Went to art class. Pouring with rain. Headlights went. Mrs Ronald came in the afternoon while I was in the kitchen.
Thursday 30th September 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Felt very tired - had headache. Mrs Ronald came in the afternoon yesterday. Mr Strawbridge was there for tea. Had continual headache. Took aspros. Went off with Mrs Ronald to naturalist's meeting in Tincleton woods. Boys there. Found stink bombs. Took Twinkle who was as usual much admired.
Friday 1st October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Mr Hodson called early to do accounts. Daddy fetched Shilly at 11.49am from Bridport.
Saturday 2nd October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Mr MacDonald came in about tennis club and we all had tea (morning). Mummy cooked the lunch and Shilly, Ma and I went off to Athelhampton House, which was closed. Came back and saw Frampton Church.
Sunday 3rd October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy went to the early service at 8am. Brinky back. I went to 11am at Chilfrome. Woman speaker. Miss Holmes - Diocese Secretary for Women's work. Very good. Showed Shilly my films in evening.
Monday 4th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
LOB 3rd 4 - Fine day. Shilly left about 11.15am with Daddy to go to Bridport. I went to Maiden Newton to get headlights in my car. Walked to Goulds with Twinkle. Barbara MacDonald drove us to choral practice. We got lost on the way back!
Tuesday 5th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Fine day. Went to Dorchester with Daddy in the morning. After lunch went to Maiden Newton with Joyce Ronald to do Red Cross and chiropody. Left at 2.30pm and came back and was picked up by the Grants. Went to tea with Jessie. Joyce Ronald picked me up again. Played the organ in the evening. Early bed for a change.
Wednesday 6th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Not such a fine day as yesterday, in fact rather foggy. Did up parcel for Danny. After lunch walked to rectory and came back with Mrs Brinkworth. Lunch in the hut. Went to art after Mrs Robinson and Pam Trendell had called. Took Mrs Webb, Mrs Robinson, and Mary Cake. We did an attractive little woman - my picture quite good.
Thursday 7th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Nothing very much to report. Foggy day. "Called to Higher Service." Miss "Mac" - Aunty Flora died. Had a cerebral haemorrhage, after an extra busy day. Waited an hour for the doctor. She then went to the hospital, and had several more haemorrhages.
Flora Jean Heath (ne Baxter, wife of Arthur Raymond Heath 1854-1943)
Friday 8th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Danny's birthday. Dorchester morning. Had horrible headache. Dorchester in the morning. The car was not done. Slept in the afternoon and took two aspros, effective. Went to the meeting feeling fairly well.
Saturday 9th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
7.00pm Harvest Bugs-hall. Taylor came at 7pm. Choir Festival at Frampton Church. Did not go. Felt better. Up and sent off patterns. Went and saw Constance and Joyce Padwick in the afternoon. Constance rather tired.
Sunday 10th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy went to 8.30am service, and then off to fetch David. I went to 11am service, sat with Luckocks. Good sermon. David and I and Hereward twins went black-berrying - got 4lbs. Jane came to tea. Daddy happy. I took David back. Ma went to church.
Monday 11th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Danny comes to Swanage. LOB 4H. Walked along to see Hazell Collins. Went to Blandford with Barbara. Mrs Robinson did not come, had a cold. Very hard working evening with Serenade.
Tuesday 12th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Gloucester - Started 10.20am. Stroud got us muddled up. After the appointment, came back through Slimbridge. Had tea. Back here at 6.15pm. Had supper, did not go to the harvest sale after all. Mr Wilson made a speech (rather desparate) about Rhodesia.
Wednesday 13th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Rehearsal evening 7pm - Before Art. Bournemouth.
Thursday 14th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
(postponed - Black-berrying with Joyce. Dorchester in the morning) - did not go to Dorchester. Lily left early. Danny and John Charlton and Sophie came to lunch. Finished washing up by 3pm. Tea at 4.30pm. Told Danny about Edward Pope at tea. She had no idea.
Friday 15th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Went into Dorchester fairly early. Took pastel which got smudged. Mummy cooked the dinner. Left 3pm to get to Joyce Padwick's. We picked black-berries on Ham Hill. Rather fun - got a lot. Back 7.20pm for rehearsal for harvest supper, quite fun. Came back for supper.
Saturday 16th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Lily early again because of relations. Cooked dinner. Slept in afternoon and had a bonfire.
Sunday 17th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy and I went to 9.30am service. Luckocks there, and a good sermon. Cooked lunch. Joyce, Michael and Joan Loring came to tea. TV in the evening.
Monday 18th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
LOB 5 H - Felt rather tired after the weekend. Slept in the afternoon for a bit. Went to choral with Barbara and Mrs Robinson. Got stuck in Cerne Abbas with no petrol afterwards.
Tuesday 19th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Did some washing, slept in the hut in the afternoon. Walked down to Mary's. She was out. So was Jessie, but Tab is down. Good play about Martin Luther on TV.
Wednesday 20th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Good day except for the evening which was bad. Had a dry throat and during the rehearsal for the harvest supper my violin got broken.
Thursday 21st October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
1st Lecture - Dosed myself with honey and quinine all day because of cold. Awful TV - Malcolm Muggeridge was awful. Slept badly.
Friday 22nd October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Harvest Supper - Felt pretty grim and did not get up till lunch time. Struggled down to post office, also to hall for taking kilt to Ivor - not wanted. The supper party started at 7.30pm. Sat beside Lily, opposite Mr Rixon. Quite a lot of locals there. Make up was good.
Saturday 23rd October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Stayed in bed till lunch time. Lily came in the morning. Quiet in the evening. Foggy morning, but fine afterwards.
Sunday 24th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy and Mummy went to the early service and to lunch with the French's. I stayed at home and had a rest.
Monday 25th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
6th week - LO Bulbs ater if necessary to keep moist, but not sodden. Excess water be drained off if necessary - May be moved out of darkness in next 4 weeks. Went into Dorchester with Mum and Daddy. Rested in the afternoon. Went to Blandford in the evening with Barbara and Mrs Robinson. Barbara drove. A bit foggy, but not much.
Tuesday 26th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Went off to Weymouth with Peggy and Mrs Webb and Miss Seabrooke at 7.30am. Quite an interesting programme. Had picnic lunch in gardens at 1pm. Saw Mrs B in the afternoon, looking dreadful! Back and first Mrs Ronald, later Brinky, and then Mr MacDonald called. Quietish evening watching and awful programme.
Wednesday 27th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Still full of cold. Went to drinks with Joe at 6.45pm. Left at 7.50pm. Back and found Joan Banfield, but we could not find car key. So walked to Maiden Newton. Mary Cake did not come, neither did Miss Walker. Jane took us back. Still life, very dull. Mummy and Daddy went into Dorchester, and back by 12mid.
Thursday 28th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Send Anthony's birthday card off. Cold still on, in the evening met Tab in the village. She took Mummy and I and Jessy to view the sale. House very dirty - and smelt. Rested in the afternoon. Did not go to the music lecture in the evening.
Friday 29th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Key turned up. Letter from Jimmy. Took Mummy down to the sale at Chilfrome and I went on to Maiden Newton. Slept in the afternoon.
Saturday 30th October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Jane came over in the afternoon and I rested (as usual). Will get over this depression soon I hope. Appearance of Mrs Bailey at W.I. meeting caused it. Put in bulbs from Peggy.
Sunday 31st October 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Fairly good day. Daddy went to the early service. He and I went to evensong at Maiden Newton. Brinky preached. Nearly full church.
Monday 1st November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
7th week - When 1/2 growth shows from tip move the bowls to a shaded spot in a room. Good day on the whole, felt much better. Took Mummy into Dorchester in the morning. Had coffee at Genge's. They turned us out of Judge Jefferies!! After lunch walked down to Maiden Newton, saw Genivars, Herewards. Went to Blandford with Barbara and Mrs Robinson - (she is very tired - her birthday today).
Tuesday 2nd November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Water bulbs. cake making, parcels, letters. Quiet morning working, bonfire etc. Played the organ in the afternoon. Got a bit cold. After tea TV for most of the evening. A good play about a brother and sister. Frost in the evening or rather night.
Wednesday 3rd November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Water bulbs, cake. parcels, letters. Watered bulbs, and went on with Women's Institute thing. Took Mummy to Maiden Newton and round to Benville and saw Mrs Leader. Lovely afternoon. To art with Mrs Banfield, did young fair haired man. Quite fun. Everyone there.
Thursday 4th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Dr Hereward coming to see Mummy - Cake, parcels, letters, mending. Doctor came in the morning, is going to bring drops for her ears. In the evening read my speech and then dashed on to the lecture at Maiden Newton which was quite interesting. Elected as secretary of Women's Institute.
Friday 5th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Went into Dorchester with Ma and Pa. Walked to Maiden Newton in the afternoon. Went to tea with Peggy about being a secretary.
Saturday 6th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Awoke with a headache which got worse as the day went on. Slept in the afternoon.
Sunday 7th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy's birthday. Rained all day. Felt better. Daddy liked his presents but we have to change the sweater and jacket. Ros and Danny rang up.
Monday 8th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Not quite so wet as yesterday. Managed to get the washing done. Mum and Daddy went into Dorchester. After lunch got ready for Diana's arrival. Sophie and her arrived at 4.30pm. I went to music with Barbara and Mrs Robinson. Mrs Robinson's daughter ill in Tone Vale again.
Tuesday 9th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Arose late as usual. Opening meet outside Fox and Hounds. Danny walked round with Sophie. The Allens came in to see us. Went into Dorchester in the afternoon. Exciting play on TV at night.
Wednesday 10th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Nothing much doing. Dull day. Walked down to Cakes in the afternoon. Sophie rode the donkey. Mrs Brinkworth called in the morning. Out in the evening. The Boy Shepherd too much criticism.
Thursday 11th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Nothing much in morning. Cold dull day. Danny and I and Sophie went down to Burton Bradstock in the afternoon and walked along the beach. Cold. Watched TV in the evening.
Friday 12th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Committee meeting at Peggy's to plan the party 6.30pm. Danny finally left about 11.30pm. After lunch went down to Mary Cake's and did sketch. Very nice in her front room. He had taken the tractor into Dorchester to have it painted. I arrived half an hour late for the committee meeting at Peggy's. TV (gala music programme was good).
Saturday 13th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Twinkle was very sick in the night. Quiet day. Cold. Lily changed the furniture to the sitting room. Mollie rang up and came to tea. Watched the Remembrance Day Festival on TV for two hours in the night.
Sunday 14th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy went to the early service. We watched the Centotaph film on TV. I flooded the kitchen. Sat in the kitchen in the afternoon and read. Memorial Service in the evening. Boys there.
Monday 15th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Very cold windy day. Some washing of rags done! Daddy had a bit of a cold and spent the afternoon in bed. I went down to Mrs Seymour's with poppies. We half fed the animals! Went to Blandford, Barbara drove - good rehearsal. Very windy night.
Tuesday 16th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Good day. Drove to Maiden Newton and picked up Mummy's medicines and got some tiles. Very cold day, and inclined to sleet. After lunch went and saw Mrs Webb, Mary is ill, so she will not come tomorrow.
Wednesday 17th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Knitting day. Also Parson's wives meeting for Mummy. Left home at 10.45am. Was 20 minutes late for knitting lecture which was quite interesting. Thought that I saw Mrs Bailey but made a mistake. Had lunch with Miss Seabrooke at Genge's. Bobby Peel's old housekeeper joined us. After lunch did more knitting, learnt to join shoulders, a button. etc. fail! Back and went to art in the evening. Did the boy quite good. Very few there.
Thursday 18th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Lecture in the evening. He is singing in our concert on Saturday.Heard Mozart, Bach, Handel.
Friday 19th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Concert which took place tomorrow,started with Vaughan Williams "Serenade to Music." Joseph Saxby with Carl Dolmetsch (who went to David's prep school) played the recorder in between. Papusch. Also imitated a white throated warbler rather well (Australian?) Beautiful they were. Then Purcell's "Ode to St.Cecilia" with orchestra and trumpets. Quite nice for start.
Saturday 20th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Concert? Very busy day, making cakes in the morning for David coming tomorrow. Went and had oil part in and Mrs Collins put it in the wrong place!! Washed hair before lunch. Brinky called in and also the French boy with ice creams. Left at 3pm. Reached there at 4.50pm. Did not start till 4.10pm. Rested afterwards. Carl Dolmetsch played the recorder wonderfully well, especially the Australian one, of a white throated warbler.
Newpaper article cutout in diary-
Noted Artistes at Blandford concert
Blandford Choral Society's concert on Saturday provided a musical feast which will not quickly be forgotten. The programme with its central theme of the feast of St. Cecilia, patron saint of music, included both the 'Serenade to Music' by Vaughan Williams and Purcell's 'Ode on St. Cecilia's Day.' In the performance of these works the Blandford choir was joined by Shaftesbury Arts Club choir conductor, Miss Kathleen Drake. This association of choirs produced a body of singers about 70 strong which, under the direction of Dr Reginald Johnson, showed itself to be a well-balanced, disciplined and responsive chorus fully equal to all the demands made on it. It was supported by a strong team of soloists which included Dorothy Pitman (soprano), Anne Ramsay (contralto), Joyce Sutton (contralto), John Brecknock (tenor), and Bruce Critchinson (bass). The instrumental accompaniments were played by a small orchestra of strings, oboes, recorders and trumpets, assisted by Joseph Saxby (harpsichord) and Rex Solly (piano). Between the two choral works the large audience was given the experience, unusual in Dorset, of hearing music for recorder and harpsichord played by two artistes of such outstanding fame as Carl Dolmetsch and Joseph Saxby. This delightful and memorable concert demonstrated very clearly the enthusiasm which the present conductor has so obviously engendered among singers, players and audience alike. If Blandford Choral Society can continue to present programmes of such interest performed so well it should have a long and bright future.
Sunday 21st November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Ma and Pa went to David's Hamlet at Sherborne last night and did not get back till 11.30pm. I got back at 11.15am. Went to 9.30am service. Fetched David from Harper House, quiet day. Daddy took him back.
Monday 22nd November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Cold. Went to singing practice as usual - Carols - Vaughan Williams. Very cold as we sang. Went round to Peggy's in the morning, Alec with a string vest.
Tuesday 23rd November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Do notice about carol concert. Cold. Taylor came at 1pm. Mummy's suit looks nice. Played organ in the afternoon. Gale in the evening - quiet time. Polished floor! - Christmas presents - letter to Waring Sewing.
Wednesday 24th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Ros arrives - Carol concert X Cancelled. Went into Dorchester with Mummy. Came out and went to Godmanstone arts and crafts shop (Indian work). Back at 1.15pm. After lunch slept and read book, "An Affair of Men." Rather good but tragic. Went to air in the evening, took Mrs Banfield and Mary Cake. Back at 9.45pm. Did the shepherd boy still.
Thursday 25th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
7pm Committee, Peggys. Good day. Did floor in the afternoon. Went to committee meeting at Peggy's. Very wet. Took Mrs Dawe back to Chilfrome on the way to the music lecture at Maiden Newton which was good. Brinky was there.
Friday 26th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Wet day, cold. Went into Dorchester to have the car serviced. Did a lot of shopping. Daddy went to Crewkerne to get peach tree. After lunch did floor in kitchen. Brinky is apparently ill, and Daddy may have to take Sunday morning service. Ros and John arrived at 7.30pm, they left Guilsborough at 2.30pm.
Saturday 27th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Carol Concert. Ros and John went off to fetch David and see the headmaster at 10am. Back by 3.30pm. I rested. After tea went to the carol concert at Weymouth. Sat beside Mrs Webb, and Mrs Musgrove. Very cold, but quite a good concert. Back by 10pm. Went by bus.
Sunday 28th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy took the early service. Ros and John and I went. Mrs Toms was there. Attwoods left 3pm. Tree planting ceremony. Auden (poet) on tv.
Monday 29th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Floods, very cold still. Rested in the afternoon. Barbara did not come to Blandford. Mrs Robinson and I went. Cold. But good singing. Caroling at WImbourne on 16th?
Tuesday 30th November 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Went into Dorchester with Ma and Pa. Slept all the afternoon. Watched TV and knitted. Good amusing play with Peter Sellars in it. Troops not gone yet to Zambia.
Wednesday 1st December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Lovely clear day. They were hunting close at hand. Brinky and Alec Grant in. Washed, did bonfire and sent a cheque to Dayman. After lunch took Lily to Maiden Newton. Art class in the evening, did Mary Butler. (Webb). A good result but much criticism from Jane who gave us some mushrooms. Rotten play on TV.
Thursday 2nd December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Party afternoon. Helped in hall. Made mince pies in morning. Showers. Picked up Mrs Musgave and took her back. Good feed at W.I. Mr Lovell demonstrated cake icing. Back 11pm. Introduced Mrs Musgrave to Mummy, in Scotch clothes.
Friday 3rd December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Finish W.I. Notes Tonite Police College. Finish portrait. See Webb. £8 to Mr Hodgen. Went to Maiden Newton in the moring.Went down to see Jesse in the afternoon - great jokes. Her maid Miss Land had fallen down the stairs and hurt herself.
Saturday 4th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Ring Rachel. Quiet day. Rested in the afternoon.
Sunday 5th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy went to 8am service. I went to 11am. Allen's there, also Mrs Luckock. Listened to 'Meeting Point' in the evening.
Monday 6th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy and Mummy went into Dorchester. I did floor etc. etc. Rested in the afternoon. Choral society in the evening. Heavy rain. Heard about Johnson from Mrs Robinson.
Tuesday 7th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Library book time up. Music lecture. Did floor. Went and saw Mrs Webb and Mrs Marshall and Mrs Shergold about W.I. Music lectures in the eveing, quite good.
Wednesday 8th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
No art. Went into Yeovil with Daddy. Bough recorder. Job making it work on our return. Fine day turned to rain. Played organ in the afternoon. Mummy made Christmas puddings.
Thursday 9th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Wet day and blowing. Got worse as the day went on. Went and saw Mrs Leader at Mollie Kennard's where she is ill. Took some washing to Mrs Goddards. After lunch went to Maiden Newton and fetched tiles. Later on - slept. Man came todo television and improved it quite a bit. Moonlight night.
Friday 10th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Finer day. Went down and saw Mary Cake. After lunch went and played organ in the church. Jan came over todrinks at 6.30pm. Listened to record and TV.
Saturday 11th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
7pm. Rachel and Freddie's 7pm - Quiet day. Wrote a Christmas letter to Mrs Connerton. Went off to Freddie and Rachel's at 118, Church St, (Primrose Cottage), Upway, Weymouth. Had a good supper and showed them my slides.
Sunday 12th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy and Mummy went to the early service. I did NOT. Went to Evensong. Long sermon. Mrs Wills wants me to play organ on Christmas day evening.
Monday 13th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
We all went into Dorchester. Back by lunch time. Daddy got more records and made an awful noise. I slept in the afternoon. Little Taylor came. Carol practice in the eveing at Blandford in small room. had a small headache all day.
Tuesday 14th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Too two aspros and got rid of headache. Lily away in Weymouth shopping. So cooked lunch. Afterwards went and had a chat with Mrs Leader - who is illin Mrs Craft's house. TV in the evening after Molly Kennard came to tea. Someone just like John James running after two women.
Wednesday 15th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Take Ros's Christmas card to show to Jane! (Next to W.I. drawer). Mrs Webb. No food women -sent. Christmas. Busy day,but it rained all the time. Christmas cards and parcels for Mummy. Saw Mrs Kraft twice. Went to art class and did Mary Webb. Bach. Symphony orchestra very late. Sonata No.5 in C major. Beethoven. Celloo concerto. Not this day.
Thursday 16th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Wimbourne Carolling or 7.10pm Maiden Newton. St. Mary's, Maiden Newton. See Burt re chest. Mrs Trendell re caroling. Went into Dorchester in the morning. Fine day. Tabs and Jess came to tea. Lecture for two hours quite interesting - ending with jazz.
Friday 17th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Another wet day! Went to see Burts. Mrs Trendell, Mrs Webb. Mrs Ronald called to see us. Came to tea in the afternoon with him. Walked to Mrs Cake's and back. Quiet evening.
Saturday 18th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Rained a lot. Played organ etc. Dreadful day. Went and saw Mrs Hereward. Also Pages.
Sunday 19th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Daddy and I went to the 9.30am service. Fine day. Went carol singing in the evening, after Michael Brinkworth had come to tea.
Monday 20th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Last rehearsal. Went into Dorchester with Mummy. Fine morning. In the evening last rehearsal at Blandford. Johnson in good form. Frighfully cold, no heating in the room.
Tuesday 21st December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Concert. Sat all morning and copied out music - then played it on the piano which Mummy did not like!! Went off at 3.30pm with Robbie. Went and got some more petrol and had a hot cup of tea in a caravan in car park. Concert quite a success with an excellent baritone singing. Came back with Mrs Rob.
Wednesday 22nd December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Felt pretty tired. Mrs Robinson had an N.B. and went to Hervison hospital, I heard afterwards.
Thursday 23rd December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Felt very exhausted and spent all day in bed bar meals.
Friday 24th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Up and about again. Final practice on organ.
Saturday 25th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock - Christmas Day
We went to 11am service, the McDermotts, also the Ronalds, and Alec Grant came in to drinks. Had a good lunch. Listened to the Queen. Had a good sleep. Pleasant evening.
Sunday 26th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
We all got up late. The organ was practiced in the afternoon. Play for evening organ. Daddy and I had coffe with the Cakes before lunch. Evensong was alright with organ.
Monday 27th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Quiet day. Made curry for lunch. Went down and saw Mrs Robinson's daughter in the afternoon. Went to tea with the Allens which was nice. Brian Rix in the evening.
Tuesday 28th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Good day. Still very cold!! Biked to Maiden Newton pm.
Wednesday 29th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Very wet, windy and generally terrific. Went into Dorchester with Daddy to get a record, library etc. Had lunch with Mrs Craft and Mrs L. Followed them in car to Benville. Mr Leader went to bed early. I wrote two letters and read "The Woodlander" by Thomas Hardy. Slept well.
Thursday 30th December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock and Benville
Get wood in. Parcel to people - Got up late after a very good night. Went to Beaminster - shopped for Mrs P. Saw Jane. Back home for lunch. Ma in a bad temper - not too well!! After lunch washed clothes etc. and went back to Mrs Leader at 4pm. Various people came in. Quiet evening. Wrote two letters.
Friday 31st December 1965 - Pound House, Cattistock.
Got home at 12mid. Ma still in bed, and feeling rather tired. Daddy had a stiff neck. Back at Mrs Leader's for tea.
Christmas Present(?)
Mary Cake - Pastels.
Louise Cuff - Talca scent. handkerchief
Ros (Rosamond Attwood) - Bubble bath, a scent for clothes, handkerchief
Shilly - Art book
Daddy - 5
Mummy 2 brooches, jumper.
Cousin Posy - Stockings
Aunt Buzzy - bath cap
Andgayne(?) - writing paper
Mrs Hurliman - Calendar
Stella and Ann - Calendar written
Danny (Diana Charlton) - basket
Lois - scarf
Sister Porter - Card
Clair and Colin
Mrs Sharp senior
Nancy
Mollie
Mrs Davies
Beryl Gamble
Primrose Palmer
Parcel for Ros
Chris Cassels
Mrs Rogers
Margaret Crawford
Enid and Jack - scarf
Mrs Scott
Helen Brickman.
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Heath-Caldwell All rights reserved.
Michael Heath-Caldwell M.Arch
Brisbane, Queensland
ph: 0412-78-70-74
alt: m_heath_caldwell@hotmail.com