- 1 9 13-

,
,
 I~ - 1 9 13-
Good Friday, 21st March.
Easter very early, very uet, in fact-this_ has been continuous since last May.
Wallced over to Gonalston to tea with the Francklins and found a family party.
Capt. Philip R.N. and his wife, Billy and Capt. Harry Sherbrooke R.N. and his
wife. Philip only 37 and Capt. of Admiral Cradock's Flag Ship.
~t., 22nd Mar.
Rode to meet of ~orn at Ke~vorth and to neet Major Robertson there.
Left them at Wysall.
Easter Honday. 24th Har.
Percy, Muriel and their younger boy and Harold Bayley motored over and in
the afternoon all to Lincoln to see the Cathedral and gave them tea at the
Saracen's Head.
Tues.,25th Har.
Rode oV'ar to Langar Hall and had a pleasant day ,.,rith Harold ~ Bayley.
Husters has thinned the trees round Wiverton House and improved the look of that
old castle.
Heds. ,26th Mar.
Hurrahl Again off to Town. Breakfast en route and called on Dick, then to
Chelsea for Ella whom I had not seen since October last. We lunched at the R.A.C.
in Pall 11all, strolled on to Kensington and to tea at Marylebone G.C. Hotel
before I left by 6.20. Home by 9.20. Polly retired upstairs. It is curious
while so well contented with one's marriage it is a fascinating pleasure to meet
an old love after so long an absence.
Thurs. ,27th Har.
Riding with Cowing over the farms in hand of Sir Charles Seely's. Frank Seely
called but I uas away till late, too late for dinner at the Rectory to which P. went.
Fri., 28th Har.
To meet hounds at Shelford. Turned very wet and came home after Cropwell.
To Rainsdale Park at 5 where Frank and Hylton Seely.
Sat. ,29th Har.
To Nottingham. John Holden's funeral at Nuthall and the church full of people
Home at 3. Sir F. Ley's salmon arrived for me. To tea at Rectory where a Mina
Laurence and Dr. Moore. Very pleasant. Pretty Mrs. McLean has two of the finest
handsomest boys (18 months and 4 years) I know of. Called on the Mortimers retired
here from farming.
Hon. ,1st Apr.
To Peterbro and then to Stilton and wallced on to Bucks Lodge which is now let
to Cheney and the stock sale to-day.
Thurs. ,3rd Apr.
To Toton by train.
Pri. ,4th Apr.
Had a long ride to Blidworth Bottoms and the Queen's Bower.
Sat. ,5th Apr.
Swearing~in Tax Collectors with Mr. Francklin.
'i'ues.,8th Apr.
To London. Ella poorly so did not see her. Lunched with ~~s. Hurst in
Lo\mds Square and home by 5 train.
Thurs.lOth Apr.
Drove to Syerston for lunch and then to Charlie's at Farndon for night
and with Col. G. Foljambe for our regimental dinner at the Town Hall, Newark.
Fri.,llth Apr.
Drove back by Southwell and attended the Guardians Meeting and home at 3.
Snowing hard all day. No fine season yet since last May.
fat. ,12th Apr.
To Nottingham in afternoon to the theatre where next me the Sherbrooke party
and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Branston.
Sun. ,13th Apr.
My 51st birthday. Boy Scouts to lunch, and I inspected them. Patrick spent
day here.
Mon., 21st Apr.
To She~vood Lodge for lunch and driving with Sir Charles till evening
about the Woodboro farms.
Tues. ,22nd Apr.
Spent at home. It is fine for once.
\-leds. ,23rd Apr.
Margie and P. to Llandudno and I saw them off from Nottingham and then by
train to Hexgreave Park and drove home.
Thurs. ,24th Apr.
Rode over to Winkburn and a long talk with Col. Burnell.
Fri., 25th Apr.
To the Southwell Council. Dinner at the Cro~Tn, about 50 present. Then to
the Cathedral for the Rector's Induction and to the Palace for tea. Rode home
and to the Lowdham Concert.
Sat. ,26th Apr.
Sir T. Birkin motored me to Toton in the afternoon. Called to see Percy
and Geoff who had been bad with flue. Very stormy night. Since last October
one could count the fine days on one's hand, indeed no settled weather since
last Hay.
Sun., 27th Apr.
Up very late and about home all day.
 3
Mon. ,28th Apr.
To lunch at She~vood Lodge and next day to Hexgreave for lunch.
Thursday to Hinckley where I got a wire that Madge had measles.

Hon. ,5th Hay.

I had intended to have gone to Glasgow on Sat. to get a glimpse of Madge
but her ill~ss prevented it. So this day at 11 to Netherhall near Carlisle
\vhi~h I reaced at 5. Guy Senhouse came at 7, the only member of the family,
bringing Mr~Bevin Lindow, an amusing man and large landowner near Whitehaven.
Tues. ,6th May.
Lindow motored me to Whitehaven and I returned by train, seeing the
famous goose that for years has wandered the streets there.
\'leds. ,7th Hay.
About Maryport all day with Penrice. Was alone for dinner.
Thurs. ,8th Hay.
Returned home at 6 o'clock. Polly and Margia got home at 3 from Llandudno.
Fri., 9th Hay.
Percy brought his t\vO boys Geoffry and Leonard "Tommy Teddy" who stayed
with us for 10 days. Percy and Muriel going to \oloodhall Spa with a large
party for golf.

~/hit Sun., 11th May.

\'le all to church in the morning.
v/hit Honday,12th May.
To Sherwood Lodge for lunch. Sir Charles not well. A large party for lunch
among whom Col. Dalbiar~I had not seen for some years. Referring to the
Suffragettes whose outrages cause disturbance he presided at a meeting
"They called it a debate but it \iIC.S more like dervishes". Rode home and found
the Club and band in my garden making a fete day.
Tues.,13th May.

To Farcet near Peterbro, walked through Farcet and on to Peterbro,

missing my way I got by the Nene and chartered a boat for Peterbro. A good
view of the Cathedral, no houses being on this side.
Thurs. ,15th Hay.
To Easton Lodge, first to Bingham and then by train to Harby and cycled
on to see the Ironstone workings and after on to Melton to take train home.
Drove the Rector and Mr. Browne for the Rural Decanal Conference at Gedling.
Hon. ,19th Hay.
To Sherwood Lodge for lunch. Percy's boys left.
Tues.,20th May.
To Toton all day.
 ~I f1 J3 _
Thurs.,22nd·Hay. R~~
Riding all day at'Jlaiuadale-, Calverton, Oxton, and had tea ,.Jith Mrs. Harry
Sherbrooke, a party from Annesley coming.
Fri., 23rd May.
To the Board at Southwell and dinner with Hill at Woodbro Hall.
Sat. ,24th Hay.
To Nottingham. Fine summer after 12 months of continuous wet and
cloud. Percy motored over with his boys.
Sun. ,25th Hay.
To Church in morning~ Summer weather.
Hon. ,26th Hay.
To She~~ood Lodge for lunch. Fine weather but we heard thunder towards
Derbyshire and next day heard of a great storm passing east and west of us.
Heds,28th Hay.
By train to London, arrived at 12 putting up at Schneiders in St. James'
Place. Then strolled to the "In and Out" Naval and Military Club in Piccadilly
where I lunched with Major Corbett whom I had not met before: a very agreeable
man although over 20 years ago my successful rival. After we strolled on to
Cooks to engage his passage in November to India and on to the Royal Automobile
Club in Pall Mall to show him this splendid building and to tea with his wife
in Chelsea. I met them in the evening at the Adelphi to see The Dancing Mistress
and after to the R.A.C. for supper where we stayed till i past 1.
Thurs. ,29th May.
Breakfast \'iith Ed,~ard and Monica and to Fleet Street ,.Jith Ed\~ard.
Lunched ,.Jith the Charm~oods in Eaton Square and after to Ella and took her
to the Military Tournament at Olympia. The old 18th century drill by the Green
Rowards most interesting. We went to the R.A.C. for tea and parted on her
road home. I on to Nells in Emperor's Gate \'ihom I found in, from Scotland
yesterday, and motored her to the Club in Piccadilly where she dines. I dined
at the R.A.C. and after to Hrs. R's in Ashley Gardens who remains still pretty
as of yore.
Fri. ,30th Hay.
Breakfast again with Monica and after a stroll in the Park where I met the
Charnwoods. Home by 5 train. During my visit I Sa\'l more of royalty than usual:
the King and ~en and the Queen Hother \-Iho looks as young and beautiful as ever.
The Blues I saw' crossing from drill and notice the officers attend the early row
a good deal in uniform coming off parade. Delightful summer weather.
Sat., 31st Hay.
To Nottinham and sm.., Sir T. Birkin and in the afternoon as yesterday
attended the Garden Fete at the Rectory where we had exhibition of Morris dancing,
a Hiss Maas having been 2 weelcs down training the children and others. Margie a
very graceful dancer, quite the best. Lady Ley there, her party being home again.
Sun.,lst June.

To Church in the morning.

Hon.,2nd June.
To my cousin VJilliam \'1a.I'\vick's funeral at Newark. Percy came for Ernest and
I and motored us to Balderton Church for the service. For over 30 years my
cousin had resided at Balderton Hall, a fine place and demesne about a mile south
of the village. He was buried in Newark cemetery with his people.
Tues. ,!:3rd June.
Riding in the evening by \Voodbro Park.
\~eds. ,4th June.
To Nottingham for the Toton audit at the Black Boy.
Thurs. ,5th June.
With Bell to Norman Cross for the Washingley audits.
Fri., 6th June.
Some showers. Returning in the afternoon met Christopher'Ley and a friend
from Cambridge en route for Epperstone.
Sat. ,7th June.
To Nottingham. Theo Spencer came to stay. Sitting with fr. Fellows as Income Tax
Commissioner in the morning. Polly went with Lady Ley to the Yeomanry lunch on
Thursday and Margie and Geoffry followed for the sports and enjoyed it much.

Sun.,8th June.
Percy and Muriel came for Geoff. who had been with us a week. They had been
3 days at Epsom Races with the Reids, Private Box and tickets, and most excellently
done by, Reid's house being 3 miles away only.
Tues.,lOth June.
To Ruddington for the audit.
'deds. ,11th June.
To the Black Boy for the Widmerpool audit.
Fri., 13th June.
Drove to Farnesfield for the Hexgreave audit.
Tues.,17thJune.
At Oxton for the audit. This audit used to be al\'lays first Friday July,
and has many memories. Margie's birth the day after one, and Father's death
2 days after he attended the one July 1904.
Thurs.,19th June.
To Toton to meet Perks about repairs.
Fri., 20th June.
The good but rough audit dinner at 8 at Calverton.
 to,
Sat., 20th June.
Dinner at the Black Boy. Nottingham at 2 with the She~lood Lodge tenants.
Sun. ,21st June.
At home.
Hon. ,22nd June.
To Winkburn for the audit and snayed late for a tall~ with Colonel Burnell.
Tues.,23rd June.
A long wall~ at Ruddington to see the clearing of the stream.
\-Jeds.,24th June.
Drove Polly to Southwell for a round of calls. Abvely Canadian girl 16
at the Allotts.
Hon.,30th June.
Drove Polly and Hargie to Syerston Hall for tea and called at the Vicarage.
Car Colston returning. The Vicar goes to a new living in Northants.
\ieds. ,2nd July.
To Nottingham. Old Turner beckoned me to his old curio shop and I bought
an old picture of Judith £5. To Brackenhurst for the High Sheriff's party where
Miss Peggy Turner.
Thurs. ,3rd July.
To \'lesthorpe Hall for the \larrand' s party.
Fri. ,4th July.
Spent the day 'I'd th Hajor Robertson at \Jidmerpool.
Sat., 5th July.
My pretty sister-in-law l10nica and Ed\'lard came for the Heekend.
Hon. ,7th July. Rct.~cL.aA-
Lunched at ~;nsaale Park Hith Sir Charles and after drove to Newstead to
see the result of planting acorns there last year, which are promising.
Tues.,8th July.
A long walk over Toton.
Thurs. , lOth July.
Met Longbotham, mining engineer, at County Club re Maryport colliery.
Fri. ,11th July.
To Hinckley.
Sat.,12th July.
A busy day at Nottingham and Hargie' s part, at 3 at home.
Mon.,14th July.
To ~insd:Ma for lunch.
R~cla.4,
TEurs.,17th July.
To Mrs. Richard Franclclin's party atuHolly Lodge, Oxton, and after to
Woodbro but failed to buy the land Sir F. Ley wanted.
FrL,18th July.
To \'linkburn.
Hon.,19th July.
To the meeting called by Mayor of Nottingham as to the visit of the Royal
Agricultural Society in 1915. Bought several lots at Calverton Hall sale for
Sir Charles.
Tues.,20th July.
To Rainsdale riding in morning and to Mrs. Francklin's Primrose League
party at Gonalston Hall.
\leds. ,21st July.
To Nottingham and Toton. Sir F. Ley paid me £60 for all the trouble I was
at for Lady Charnwood's property he managed to buy.
Sun., 27th July.
Rode to Ollerton for the rendesvous of the 8th She~vood Foresters.
Charlie is Colonel now. I left last year after 24 years. Wore blue undress
uniform. Rode to the camp at Thoresby and then home.
~eds. ,30th July. fr\ r;tA<Ab fo{
Met the Regiment at ¥arn~h1ald for a lunch by the 11ayor and returned as far as
Clipstone with it and across Rufford Forest home.

Hon.,4th AUgust.
Percy motored me to \'lelbeck for the l~ch and show. Prince Arthur of
Connaught and Lord Kitchener. With the M~ers' party to the Sheepdog trials.
Sir R. Sutton in attendance on pretty Peggy Turner all morning, but Pat Ashwell
is the favoured one. She very great friend of Muriels. Called at the camp at
Thoresby t~cing Pat ~long there.
Tues. ,5th Aug.
Pretty Madge Champneys came here from Scotland.
\oleds. ,6th Aug. 1k~~
Percy and Huriel to lunch and after motored to ·Ucheb:y for the revie\v
of the 8th by Lord Man~ers. Percy, Muriel and their boy Geoff, Polly, Madge,
Margie and myself. The colours trooped a great success. It is and has been a
fine summer since 1st week of June. No rain but dull.
Thurs. ,7th Aug.
Polly and Madge to London and to T1,°/ickenham to lunch with the Rattan Tatas.
Parsees who had some idea of t~ing up Madge.
Fri. ,8th Aug.
Smv Madge m/ay to Scotland again.
Sat.,9th Aug.
Drove to Newark \dth Polly and Hargie and at 11.30 -to Hull uhere Muriel
and the motor met us. Percy had Grimthorpe Garth lent him for a month. We saw
the flag flying 3 miles off above its belt of trees. The house or rather cattle.
The shore some 400 yards away to which we soon adjourned. From the centre tower
we can see from Flambro 25 miles right on to the Lincolnshire Wolds 20 miles avlay.
Plan of castle. The cross hatched
shows the centre tower, 5 circular
towers on the outer walls.

The house is well furnished, mostly 18th century and many family portraits.
It has belonged to the Grimston's since the Conquest. The keeper and his wife look
after it, she a jolly woman and cooks well. Muriel brought 3 maids and the chauffeur.

Sun.10th Aug.
A bathe before breakfast and after we all to church at Garton, a mile and half
off, the ladies and children by motor. Dined at 1 in the Baron's Hall, where are the
40 Qqarterings of the Grimston. The second daughter of Sir I. Bosv~is 3 times
ift l~argie's. My grandmother Bousfield and Polly's great grandmother Bos\vell
War\Jickshire and Bosvil of Warminster. We had tea on the sands.
Hon.llth Aug.
A motor run \Yith Percy, Muriel, Geoff, Polly and Margie to Beverley passing
by Burton Constable, a large brick Jacobean house of the Constables. Beverley
Minster magnificent with carvings at the altar by the same artists as at South\Yell
screen and chapter house. The Percy tomb especially fine \York. In the fine parish
church the carved original of Tenniel' s "\;lhite Rabbit". The Common and fine forest
grove at the end much admired. Back by Hornsea and its mere, the sands bright with
coloured tents. At the Garth is a pretty flower garden as you come to the walled
kitchen garden with a raised bower, seats, clipped arbours, etc.
Tues. ,12th Aug.
We raise our flag with great ceremony each morning after breakfast. The
view this morning of Italian colouring so I borrowed Margie's painting box and
painted the view towards Flambro. The rest of the day with the children on the
sands, paddling.and bathing.
\;leds. ,13th Aug.
On the sands all morning and after lunch Percy, Muriel, Polly and I
motored to Partrington, where fine church and on to Kilnsea to the sea by
the Spurn. Home by Withernsea where we find the roadway by Dwthorne washed away
so had to make a detour.
Thurs.,14th Aug.
Spent all day on the sands \.,rith the childrEn. There is a ghost, a lady, at Grimston
in the N.E. tower. On our arrival we were all cautioned not to spellic to children or
servants of it. Last Tuesday afternoon at 2.30 when Muriel was resting Geoff came
rat~er agitated to say he had seen someone he did not know or a shadow in the passage.
Murel's O\ill rooms are all on the landing to the Blue Room in this tower, she searched
nlf the rooms and no one found. The housekeeper confirmed it was the Spook but as
this spookish lady is exclusive only appearing to the Grimstons or visitors of whom
she approves we flattered by her polite call.
Fri. ,15th Aug.
To Hull and after a look at the Humber by train to He\'1ark and home. Our
first peaches for dinner.
Sat. ,16th Aug.
Badge Spencer (Tommy) came to stay.
Sun. ,17th Aug.
All to church in the morning.
Mon. ,18th Aug.
Cycled to Winkburn.
Tues.,19th Aug.
"Tommyll and I to Toton and then to the Notts. and Middlesex Cricket
match at Trent Bridge.
\·leds. ,20th Aug.
Tommy and I again to the match at Trent Bridge.
Thurs. ,21st Aug.
Tommy and I drove to Newstead gates. Polly had a tennis party after.
Fri., 22nd Aug.R~~
Riding to Haipkdr16 Park and Woodbro.
Sat., 23rd Aug •
. Busy morning but to the theatre to see Shawls Man and Superman, where Miss Percy
and a friend and took them to tea after. Last night a good heavy rain, the first
for 10 weeks. Ernest says the weather on the continent very wet especially in Germany.
Sun. ,31st Aug.
To the Francklins at Gonalston for tea, where Capt. Philip, his pretty wife
and pretty children (2).
lBues. ,2nd Sept.
Rode to Screveton to see Kirkland. Harold and Nell spent the night, motoring
from Felixsto\'1e to Cromarty Firth.
vleds. ,3rd Sept.
1'l
Cubbing with Ld. Hartington's houds at Thurgarton. Capt. Harry Sherbrooke and
family. R. Francklins and a large par1;y from Elvaston, Capt. Ne\offi1an, COv/ley and
the Comte du Hadre out. vlalked to the Pearsons at Lo\'1dham Hut for tea, \'1here a
fine view and pretty Miss P.
Thurs.,4th Sept.
Edith Charnpneys came.
Fri., 5th Sept.
Rode to Southwell and secured Capt~ Hume for dinner. The Gonalston party,
the Squire and his \dfe, Capt. Philip R.N. and his pretty \'life. Our peaches
and grapes commended.
 I0 ~
Hon.,8th Sept.
By train to Peterbro. At Yaxley Gee met me and drove me to Washingley.
\'leds.,9th Sept.
Rode Suffragette to hounds at Halloughton Wood.
Thurs.,lOth Sept.
By train to Hinckley.
Fri.,llth Sept.
Rode to Southwell to the Board. Hrs. Richardson spent the duy at Epperstone
with Eva, Miss Bro\vne, etc.
St.,12th Sept.
The Battalion Prize shooting and had the compeping teams to tea. About 90.
sun.,14th Sept.
Percy and party and Dick and Ernest for the day. Patrick came from Farndon
and William staying here. So a large family gathering.
Tues.,16th Sept.
By train to Clixby and home at 6. In the evening for cards at the ~tory.
Weds.,17th Sept.
Cubbing at Bleasby.
Thurs.,18th Sept.
Riding most of the day at Winkburn and to see the Colonel.
Fri.,19th Sept.
Rode to Syerston.
Sat. ,20th Sept.
To the theatre at 2 with Polly and Margie to see Terry in the Scarlet Pimpernel.
Edward and Monica came to spend weekend. Called to enquire of Ernest= at
Anderson's Nursing Home, he having had an operation for rupture last \'lednesday.
Mon. ,21st Sept.
Breakfast enlivened by the unexpected arrival of Harold and Nell by motor from
Scotland. E. and M. left at 10. To lunch with Sir Charles Seely where a large
party of the Leaches, Major, Mrs. and Miss, Lady L. and her son, a gunner.
Thurs.,25th Sept.
Het the Sherbrookes and walked to Oxton Grange.
Sat., 27th Sept.
Left for Netherhall, Maryport, got there at 5. Mrs. Senhouse, 11iss Crawford
and Hrs. sas brother R. Macan got in train. Walked round the docks with Macan.
Sun. ,28th Sept.
A pleasant Sunday here: at church in the morning and a walle by the sea in the
afternoon. The pretty 3-masted schnooner we saw in the dock last evening had
cleared.
 11 I

.!ion. ,29th Sept.

Macan left us and I to Workington to see Sir John Ranels, head of the
iron smelting concern who wants our coal at Maryport \nere the Ellenbro
colliery is. The company there short of capital. Then on by train to
Hhitehaven and back at 5. I am left uith the 3 ladies and we play bridge
after dinner.
Tue~. ,30th Sept.
About the estate all day uith Pervice and spent our evening as yesterday.

Qeds. ,1st Oct.

Left Netherhall at 10 with Miss Crawford for Carlise where we p~'ted
company and I later to Lancaster where little Madge Champneys met me with
her uncle in his motor and to his house at Haverstoke outside the town.
He out for dinner but his wife, Madge. and a friend, a quiet dinner together.
~urs. ,2nd Oct.
Left Lancaster at 11, Madge seeing me off, and through pretty country with
wild moorlands and hills right and left to Skipton. Missed train at Leeds
uhere I spent li hours very pleasantly and home at 5.
Fri. ,3rd Oct.
By train to Nottingham and to Ruddington, a long walk. A thoroughly fine
autumn.
Hon.6th Oct.
To lunch at She~iood Lodge.
\'1eds. ,8th Oct.
In Nottingham seeing the Land Valuers as to Sir C.Seely's property
at Daybrook, they demanding undeveloped land tax on open land, we refuse to pay.
Lunch at the Club and Sa\i Sir Charles.
Thurs. ,9th Oct.
Met Miss A. Paget and her niece Miss Savayne at Victoria and drove over
the Ruddington estate. Lunched at the Manor (Mrs. Wrey liunt) and had tea at the
Victoria on returning.
Fri. ,lOth Oct.
Drove to Syerston for the audit, lunched with Mrs. Fillingham. A beautiful
day and the Vale a picture of peace and grey church towers.
Sat.,llth Oct.
Nottingham and a great conference at Cartwright's office on Richardson v.
Sherbrooke, a case of compensation for disturbance of tenancy.
Hon. ,13th Oct.
Lunch at She~iood Lodge.
Tues.,14th Oct.
Our case Richardson v. Sherbrooke all day at the Victoria, Nottingham.
 I ;L- \
Ueds.,15th Oct.
As yesterday and we won all along the line.
Thurs.,16th Oct.
To London for the day and first to the City to see Liruclater and
at 3 to see Ella. Amy Boyle came to tea there, I had not seen since 1897
at Cawsand where I \ient when Ella and her family were all there. Dined
on the train. but so full I had to come 1st class.
Fri.,17th Oct.
To Hexgreave for lunch.
S~t.,18th Oct.
The Langar audit at Nottingham. In London on Thursday I met also Sir
John Randles M.P. at the Euston Hotel re Maryport coal.
Tues.,21st Oct.
I met pretty little Madge Champneys on returning from Toton. She comes
to us for a few weeks.
Mon. ,27th Oct.
To Sherwood Lodge for lunch.
Tues.,28th Oct.
Joined Percy for a motor trip, first dOvrn the Foss to Newark. Near
Barnby we came across Trevor Branston and his wife and stopped for a chat.
Then across the Heath and Fen to Woodhall Spa making our way to Boston
we stopped for lunch at a pastry cooks in the Market Square: then to Fosdyke
crossing by the bridge, then Long Sutton to Lynn which we skirted at
2.30 and across country to Wells-by-the-Sea and skirted the weird marshes
to Cley. Here light failed us and it was dark when we got to Cromer and put
up at the Hotel de Paris, the only place open. A lovely moonlight evening,
balmy as spring, we walked on the pier in the pavillion of which the to\~folk
played bowls. No visitors left, only 4 in the hotel, including ourselves.
Weds.,29th Oct.
A sunny soft morning, the sea like an opal. We explored the quaint old
town and walked the cliffs bordering the golf links to Overstrand. Left Cromer
at 12 and through the country pausing at Blickling to admire the old Hall and
also Bulwers place near to, with old brick houses of the days of Elizabeth.
We then got on the road to NO~iich which we traversed last year. The bridges
washed away by last year's flood are being rebuilt. We passed Costtesey,
Lord Stafford's. The old man just lately died used to say he should rightfully
be King of England and possibly correct being of the Staffords, Duke of Buckingham
beheaded by Henry VIII.
Put up at the Maids Head in NO~iich and in the evening to the theatre
for the Royal Divorce, except for the first act a ridiculous.play but Napolean
was taken by,a Juan Buonaparte who in shape of head and profile was the exact
likeness of his great-great-uncle. '
 In continuation I commence this book living in the old house
at Epperstone, a quaint gothic place built round a cour~, where my grandfather
lived 70 years ago. With Polly and our little girl Margaret (12 years).
Madge Champneys is staying here, a pretty girl of 19- With two maids in house
and two men servants, whose families have been in our service since my grand-
father's time. Mrs. Barker, the gardener's wife, is laundry woman, and Mrs.
Knight, the coachman's wife, comes as parlour maid as occasion requires,
also old Tom Willies. 3 Horses in stable: a nice gardem and some fields
studded with fine trees at the east end of Epperstone, a small village ten
miles from any scene of Progress so-called.

:
 13 ,
Thurs. ,30th Oct.

Looking through the Cathedral Close and St. Andre,;r's Hall, full of fine
portraits. Sir H. Harbard by Gainsbro, Nelson, etc. Colonel Harvey of the
Norfollc Volunteers in 1793 whose descendants since then and do now command
the local volunteer regiments, the present Colonel being also Mayor.
As \ve had to make a long leg home left early at 10. Through Hymondham
where a fine church with west and centre towers and then a most barren
country to Ne,;rmarket, especially from Thetford to Mildenhall where nothing
but Scotch firs will grow. At Mildenhall and Barton Percy's friend Bunbury
" has a large estate. Passed the outskirts of Herringswell where the woods my
grandfather had planted are now well grown.
A cloud of motors on the roads near Newmarket for the last race of the
season and we ran slowly. Took a slow turn round Cambridge, passing Girton
saw many of the girl students, a plain smudgy lot, and the Cambridge undergrads
look a rough crew to their fellows at Oxford. Stopped at Peterbro for petrol
after over 100 miles non-stop run in ~ hours. We had tea and a stroll at
Stamford, passing by Market Deeping to see old buildings, the mills very
picturesque with good houses attached, the flour millers of 100 years ago
evidently were well to do and of 100d taste. Cut a corner by Buckmunster and
lost our way so through Melton to the Foss in the dark and "Percy landed me
home for dinner.
Fri.,31st Oct.
Spent at home.
Sat., 1st Hov.
To Nottingham.
Tues. ,4th Nov.
To Hinckley for the audit. \'lalf8ld to Burbage and about the to\'ffi ...rhile Bell
took rents.
Thurs. ,6th Nov.
To Hidmerpool and after driving to Wysall, lunched with Major Robertson
and to Uottingham at 2, and bought 5 acres at \varner's estate sold in Nottingham.
Many of the tenants bought their farms.
Sat. ,8th Nov.
With Polly, Madge and Margie to Nottingham. Sat as Income T~~ Commissioner
all morning hearing appeals. At 2 to the theatre for the Rag Time Revue, a pretty
medley. Tea a~ Griffin's shop.
Mon'!', fth Nov.
To Sherwood Lodge for lunch.
Fri. ,"tth Nov.
I spent at Hexgreave to meet Cockburn of Parker Rhodes & Co. the expert lawyers
in mineral cases, and then by motor to Southwell to see the Stewards of the Church
Manor. Back for tea with Mr. Wilson.
 11 {3

Tues.. 11th Nov.

Rode to Osmanthorpe, Edingley and Farnsfield, a fme autumn day and still
and much foliage.

Wed.. Nov 12th Nov.

Polly and I to London and stay a few days with our old friends Lord and Lady
Charnwood. Out hosts not being yet arrived from the country, we left our luggage in
Eaton Square No 108 and strolled out. At St Peter's Church, George Hubbersty's
wedding to Miss Willoughby just taking place. Some stood under the porch to see
them come out. Polly talking to Major Holden. We walked in the R. Automobile
Club in Pall Mall to admire the handsome interior and then to Agnews to see the
pictures, where we met Mrs Hurst who motored us to Earls Court and dropped us at
Loftus Hotel where we had tea with Anny and Lyly Boyle and talked over old
Cawsand Days. The Charnwoods had arrived when we got in. After dinner to a
reception at old Lady Lawrence's, she a sweet old lady widow of a fonner Viceroy of
India. The present Lord Lawrence was there. Very pleasant evening and company.

Thurs.. 13th Nov.

With Lady C. on numerous errands in the morning and after lunch to
Chancery Lane to see a collection of autographs. I showed P. the Temple ofthe
Cheshire cheese. To Lady Hewitt's for tea where a large party and as the C's were
out for dinner, P and I to the London Opera House.

Fri.. 14th Nov.

At lunch a wire from Ella to say that as husband was leaving for India that day
I could not see her. Lady C. carried offPolly to some function with royalty present
and a round of calls, so lout to Christies. Lord C. being engaged in preparing a
philosophic address for tonight. After dinner Lady C., P and I to the playhouse to see
Marie Tempest in "Mary goes first", a most amusing comedy, and Marie inimitable.
Back in a hansom, so rare now, and arrived just as Charnwood also got home at
11.30. At tea Wilson of Garvagh, Co. Meath called and we had a long chat on the
Irish problem now very critical. .

Sat.. 15 Nov.
Left Eaton Square at 11, and home for tea, welcomed at Lowdham by Madge
and Margie.
Ib

Sun., 16th Nov.

14th anniversary of our wedding at St Andrews, Ashley Place. To church in
morning and called on old Mrs Dufty afterwards. A walk with Madge in the
afternoon.

Mon., 17th Nov.

Drove to Southwell with Madge to choose rose trees at Merryweathers. We
play Koon Kan each evening in my room with great fun.

Wed., 19th Nov.

To the meet at Lambley House, found at Plowman wood and and a smart run
by Lambley, Broughton Park out towards Lowdham and lost at Bulcote, fox to
ground. I saw Mrs Morris there in her garden.

Thurs., 20th Nov.

Driving with Madge round Woodbro, ramsdale Park and Claverton. We
lunched in a shed down Brookdale Lane and returned by Oxton.

Fri., 21 st Nov.
Saw Madge offto London at 9 and on to Toton
Sat., 22nd Nov.
To the theatre in Nottingham at 2 and sm", an amusing farce "Oh, I say".
Sun. ,23rd Hov.
Had supper at the Rectory.
Hond. ,24th Nov.
Lunch at She~",ood Lodge.
Tues. ,25th Nov.
V
To the meet of the Rufford (Earl M~ers H.F.H.) at Southwell. Found at
Hallou$hton Wood where I left. 1ttlfA'1.II~
'1.~.
V/eds. ,4tth Nov.
.
A long walk over W1dmerpool admiring the November landscape. Voods
particularly charming this time of year.
Thurs.,27th Nov.
Rode to Calverton and over the Hall with the Vicar. A lovely evening,
very mild.
Fri. ,28th Nov.
To the meet at Bridgford and lunched at Syerston.
Sun.,30th Nov.
To Gonalston for tea and dinner with the Squire. Capt. Harry Sherbrooke,R.N.
and his wife there for tea. Walked home late.
Tues. ,2nd Dec.
To the Albert Hotel ,Nottingham , for the Tenantright Valuers meeting and
dinner after.
\'1eds. ,3rd Dec. . ~. tJnu-~{?)
The Toton audit at the Black Boy~ Old ~}±ile!ley 82 years, Sir T. Birkin's
secretary comes to this function and has the old style of oratory,now a thing of
the past.
Thurs. ,4th Dec.
With Bel~my cashier by train to Norman Cross where we stayed till Friday.
Sun.,7th Dec.
To church, the Rector naming me as churchwarden in place of Sir F. Ley
retired, but I think this is informal.
Hon.,8th Dec.
To Oxton for the audit which we have now held over 70 years. A big parish
meeting at the school in the evening about a proposed water supply, which is
unanimously voted unnecessary but the Local Government Board presses. Water is
its present crank. Government now interferes in our private affairs. to ana
extent unimagined 25 years ago and which spoils country life very much.
Tues.,9th Dec.
To Ruddington for the audit. Called and had tea with Mrs. Brey Hunt
at the Hanor. She a daughter of Sir John Paxton of the Great 1851 Exhibition fame ••
\oJads.10th Dec.
To the Black Boy, Nottingham for the Widmerpool audit.
Thurs.llth Dec.
To She~iood Lodge for lunch with the Seelys. Henry Enfield there, said
he was 59 whilst I took for a young man. Though fatter he has changed little
for the 30 years I have known him. Sir Charles sent me off with a fine present
of game: he leaves tomorrow for the Isle of Wight.
Fri.,12th Dec.
To Farnsfield for the audit. Laurence Wilson there for dinner. His mother
recovering well from her operation.
Sat. ,13th Dec.
,/
With Pollyand Margie to,l{ottingham. I had tea at the new cafe in the
Market Place, a most cosy place, much favoured of the K'nuts and their young
ladies.
Sunday,14th Dec.
Lady Ley at church. Poor Miss Bateman, formerly our school mistress
25 years ago, broke her ankle. She had lain 12 hours before discovered by
Margie in her cottage and at the hodpitai it is declared incurable, a most
sad case. Eercyand Muriel motored for tea uith Pat Ashwell and Gerald
Harding after golfing at Welbeck. They are full of balls and dances, the
Tango all the rage.
Mon.',15th Dec.
Rode over to Winkburn for the audit. Knight driving Bell. Stayed late
talking to the Colonel till the moon rose. The weather as balmy as May.
Tues. ,16th Dec.
Rode over to Syerston for lunch with Mrs. Fillingham.
\'leds. ,17th Dec.
To Newark for an audit at the Clinton.
Thurs.,18th Dec.
By train to'Harby and then to Hubbards at Eaton about his ironstone lease
adjoining the Hurst's property, which is turning out well. At Mrs. F's Primrose
League party at Lo\idham at 7.
Fri.,19th Dec.
To Derby for the Land Agents meeting. In the evening to Calverton for
audit and dinner. 11et Muriel a~ Nottingham waiting for Geoff returning from
School.
Sat. ,20th Dec.
To Nottingham for Seely's audit at the Bhack Boy. The tOvm crowded with
a gay throng, the girls of Nottingham being reno\ined for pretty faces. Our Rector's
wife and family left for the new livin~~t ~Q~Z Eaton, a great loss to the village.
 ~,
Sun. ,21st Dec.
A lovely day, indeed for the last 2 months a record of fine mild weather.
Roses and flowers blooming. Ar~~right preached. To Gonalston for tea and to
enquire of the Squire who has had a slight stroke. A large party, Capt. H. Sherbrooke,
his wife and boy, the Richard Francklins, W.F. from London and Hugh Hole. 3 motor
parties, Lance Wilson of Hexgreave called on me whilst the rest at church.
Hon. , 22nd Dec.
After lunch Polly and I drove to Hexgreave Park to see the Wilsons after
her serious operation on the throat. It was dark before we returned.

Tues. ,23rd Dec.

I rode my new Irish mare, 5 year old, to the meet at Larncote (Col.Berkins)
and was well pleased with her, she performs well over some decent sized fences
and quite big dykes. Edward and Monica \~ere on the Imm \.,rhen I arrived, having
come with Charlie and Annie from Farndon. A very large field and a crowd in the
house. Found at.Thornton's hold and finished off at Blackberry Hill. George
Fillingham and I riding homewards along the Foss.
Heds. ,24th Dec.
Very stiff. Closed office at 12 for Christmas. After lunch the company
arrived, first Muriel's maid Bertha and the luggage by motor: later Muriel
Geoffry and Leonard in a covered motor: then about tea time Charlie, Edward,
Monica and Patrick from Farndon, Annie coming thence by 4 train with luggage.
At tea also Percy motors up with Nell and Dick from London. Harold at sea
coming from Malta too late to join us. We sat down 14 to dinner, Ernest coming
in from the cottage, little Leonard and Mother being the only absent ones in
Epperstone. The large dra\/ingroom had been cleared for dancing and several
danced Tango figures.
Thursday, Christmas Day.
A merry party for breakfast and at 11 all to Church where we numbered 15
all to ourselves in the south west corner of the aisle where our window and the
monuments are. I called at the Manor in the afternoon. We were all to dinner
with Mother at 7.30.
Fri. ,26th Dec.
Charlie and Acmie left us for the meet at Kelham of the Rufford and I also
went on the Irish mare: there was a good deal of galloping about bet\/eenKelham
and Norwell. I returned through Southwell. The evening we made gay with a fancy
dress dinner party, Nuriel having brough a quantity. 110nica had a lovely Arabian
Night "Leo Baks:}." design. No one but the family and the sisters-in-lm'l \~ere sho\'ling
too much leg and form for public view. The Hoodbro Brass Band coming to play carols
we permitted a short view through the drawingroom window. An accident in the field
lamed me.
Sat. ,27th Dec.
Many depart. Nell at 11 to join Harold in TO\1n, his ship being just in.
Later Patrick and Geoffry for Farndon: at 2 Edward, Monica and Dick for London.
All Percy's party remain and at 7 we all motored in Percy's best Daimler \/ith all
latest appliances to dine with Charlie at Farndon. .
 Lt:] /3 ....
Sun. ,28th Dec.
Our party now greatly reduced to Percy, Muriel and ~heir two boys, and
Ernest. Some of us to Church. The weather lovely as it has been the last two
months, lovely sunsets all along. Only once have we yet had to light up for tea.
Mr. and Mrs. Jobson called at 4, heoLady Ley's brother and now a Master in
Chancery.
Hon. ,29th Dec.
The snow came in the night and Percy and I went on to Belvoir Castle to see
Mr. Scott about 12. It snowed hard from behind us and as we dare not stop had to
run on in the woods towards Knipton till a grove of big yews gave us ground our
wheels could grip. Scot is brother of Lord Polworth and agent here. The view
from the terrace over a snow landscape very fine indeed. It had cleared as
\4e returned.
Tues.,30th Dec.
All our party left us.
\·leds. ,31st Dec.
A midnight Service. Polly went but I did not go.