May 24

24 Thursday (145-221)
Empire Day

Had breakfast at 8:30 and afterwords did some unpacking of the old trunks and sorting out the things. I'm going to shorthand this afternoon and so learn to be quick at it by the time I get back to Shanghai, as practice must make perfect as the saying goes. Mrs. Nash is going to see "Hit the Deck" with matron and Mrs. Hill's, so daddy as I will go off to the cinema, as we must do something to. We are going to see "Silk Stockings." It's supposed to be very good so we will enjoy it. We received Nora's letter this morning and she sounds quite excited for tomorrow. I am to fetch her out in time for tiffin tomorrow and she won't have to return to school until Tuesday morning? being Whit-Sun weekend.

I.H.

May 23

23 Wednesday (144-222)

I made a cake and pudding after breakfast and then I did an hour of shorthand. Daddy and Mrs. Nash went into Bournemouth to buy cakes for this afternoon's tea party. After tiffin we got the house tidied up to receive our guests at 4 o'clock. Mrs Day Mrs. Russell and Mrs. Fortesque arrived. We talked by the fire then went in to tea. After tea we chatted about places abroad and showed  them pictures of the places we visited this last trip. They ended up with cocktails, and they went home about 7:30 PM.. Well, it was a very enjoyable afternoon with such pleasant company.
After dinner we sat in the firelight and I played the gramophone until after 10 o'clock.

I.H.

May 22

22 Tuesday (143-223)

Heard from Mrs. Blanchard saying that she could make my summer dresses at 12/6  each, as I used to play when at school. Stayed at home and did some washing etc. and tidying the rooms. Heard from Mrs. Hawes inviting us to the on June 2 and for lunch too if I remember rightly.
Wrote to Nora and mummy this evening. After dinner we went off to the Hippodrome to see a revue named "The League of Neighbors", it was quite a good show and had some very clever feats in it. I haven't done shorthand for some days. Dreadful!!
I must "Pull up my Socks" and get a move on, soon, or I won't earn much of a living.

I.H.

May 21

21 Monday (142- 224)

I received a letter from Cecil by the 11 o'clock post and it was a screaming letter in parts. We got up early this morning and took Nora back to school; we were in good time. I have arranged for Eunice to come out this Sunday and said I'd fetch her at 10 AM sharp. Did some shopping.

In the afternoon we went to the "Westover" to see "Crazy Maisy" and "Fools of Fortune" The first was decidedly the best and most amusing. We had a very long program, lasting from 2:30 to 6 PM and a very varied one too. After the show we went to the "Golden Gate" for tea. It wasn't up to much but still, it was about the only tea place open as late as 630. We didn't get home until well after 7:30 PM

I.H.

May 20

20 Sunday (141-225)
Sunday after Ascension

Daddy and I went for a short walk in the morning and Nora did her prep. We booked for a Lulworth Cove Drive this afternoon as it looks such a fine day. We had a lovely drive but nearing Lulworth we got into a shower, but we escaped it by going to tea first before looking around the cove. We had the same 1/ teas that we could get when we were last here in 1924, and the place hasn't altered a bit. After tea we went up a hill and obtained a magnificent view of the Cove and the country around. The weather had quite cleared up again.

I.H.

May 19

Saturday (140-226)
New Moon

There is no diary entry for today.

May 18

18 Friday (139-227)

Spent the morning in, except for the fruit buying and little oddments. Went into Bournemouth to fetch Nora, arrived 15 minutes too  early, had to amuse myself with Miss Haskell and Fluff.
I brought some toffees for the girls in Nora's door. We went into Bobby's and bought some lovely cakes for tea then we both came home. We chatted after tea til Mrs. Nash came home. After supper we went to the Hippodrome to see Mrs. 'Arris, a comedy. It was a very funny show and well worth the money.

I.H.

May 17

17 Thursday (138-228)
Ascension Day

I went shopping with Mrs. Nash this morning and bought Mary a new coat and hat for summer. Mary paraded in it for the rest of the day. We did all the necessary buying and returned home.

I.H.

May 16

16 Wednesday (137-229)
 Rogation Day

Today is the anniversary of the day we landed in England and it is now 4 years ago. We certainly celebrated it this afternoon. We went to "The Wests" picture house and saw some picture there, and after he show we went to Bobby's for tea.
We had a glorious tea and also sundaes. Mrs Nash had a "Cherry Cream Cottage" and daddy and I had a"Dreamland Sundae" each. They were lovely ones. We listened to the orchestra til almost the end.

I.H.

May 15

15 Tuesday (136-230)
Rogation Day.  Scottish Quarter Day

This morning  wrote to Cecil and sent off his birthday present. I picked up Mary's present too and sent her's off in the afternoon.We went down on the beach for tea and found it very windy down there so we had to have tea inside the hut instead of on the veranda.I.H.

May 14

14 Monday (135-231)

Rogatíon Day

We got up at 6:45 this morning, had breakfast at 7:30 and left at not eight to take Nora back to school. We had cheap return tickets again. We got Nora to school in good time. I had a chat with the girls there while Nora was collecting up her things. We ordered two cakes to be sent up to Nora. She had to have gotten them by this afternoon, I think. We looked about the shops until 10 and then we went to book seats for "Rookery Nook". It's supposed to be a very funny play so I hope we will like it. I bought a tie for Cecil's birthday also daddy went to the bank. It rained all the time we were out.

 I did shorthand for two hours today. Bought a tie for Cecil's birthday present.

I.H.

May 13

13 Sunday (134-232)
Rogation Sunday

We stayed home in the morning, nor did her prep and I made a pudding and did various things about the house. We went to Salisbury and Stonehenge in the afternoon. The private car came for us at 2:30 and took us to Boscombe to meet the Charrabanc. We had tea at Salisbury and we went to visit the cathedral there too. After tea we drove to Stonehenge. We had a look at the stones and got into the Charrabanc to return the game. It was a chilly drive back. We saw Salisbury Plain and drove through some very pretty country in the valley of the Avon. We arrived home at 8 PM and had dinner. We talked for a few minutes after dinner and went to bed.

I.H.

May 12

12 Saturday (133-233)
Last Quarter, 9:50 PM
S R 5.13 S S 8.40 PM

Daddy, Nora and I went for a walk to Boscombe to do shopping. I bought two lots of material and a nice frock and daddy bought Nora three lovely new dresses. We also went to see about Charabanc trips. Nora and I stayed at home in the afternoon and daddy went on the beach with Mrs. Nash, Billy and Mary.


We had supper at 6:30 and hurried off to the Theater Royal to see "Aloma"  It was quite a good show and the scenery was very good especially when they brought in the storm and rain effect. It was the most realistic. We arrived back home after 11:30 and retired straight to bed.

I.H.

*Aloma: stage play of "Aloma of the South Seas" also a silent movie from 1926 )

May 11

Friday 11 (132-234)

Did some short him this morning and in the afternoon Mrs. Nash, Mary, and Billy came with me to fetch Nora out. Mrs. Nash and Mary went to Mrs. Wright's and I brought Nora home.

When Mrs. Nash arrived back at about 3:30 she suggested going to the Hippodrome tonight. We went to see "Contrasts" a sort of revue.
It was very funny indeed in the first time daddy has visited the Hippodrome. Nora and I have been before with the Cocks in 1926.

I.H.

May 10

10 Thursday (131-235)

Stayed in this morning. This afternoon Mrs. Nash, daddy and I walked to Christchurch via Hengistbury Head and Mudeford. We did the same walk that Nora and I did with Mrs. Nash a long while ago. We crossed from Mudeford to Christchurch in a motorboat; it was freezing cold then, as the sun was in. We had tea at Christchurch in the tea shop there. We had a delicious tea of scones and meringues and cream. We came back by tram at about 6:30.
Mrs. Skeats came to call on us with her two children. We had a fire lit and sat beside it after dinner. We retired at about 10:30 PM

I.H

May 9

9 Wednesday (130-236)
Half Quarter Day

We were up quite early this morning as Billy had to return to school today. The house is quite quiet without that kid about and we are thankful too. Daddy and I went for a walk to Boscombe, of course studying the shops all the way. We had a look into the prices of seats at the Hippodrome as we may go next week and to see Mrs. 'Arris a funny show according to Mrs. Nash. We bought a lot of sweets and chocolate so that we can offer to company if they drop in on the us.

I.H

May 8

8 Tuesday ( 129-237)

After breakfast I started my first shorthand lesson I had two hours of it from 10 to 12 so I have got the beginning of the subject now. After tiffin I made a small fruit cake and left daddy to take care of it when Mrs. Nash when Mrs. Nash and I went to the hairdresser.
We missed the appointment so we went and had tea at Bobby's and after tea we went and had our photos taken by "Photomaton", the eight different positions of us were taken in 20 seconds and printed in eight minutes. It was quite fun and worth the 1/ in the slot for the experience of this new invention. We had dinner at 7:45 and rushed off to the Palladium to see the film "The Gay Retreat".
It was a very funny picture indeed. Well we certainly have had a busy day today and haven't idled much.

I.H

May 7

7 Monday ( 128-238)
Bank Holiday in Scotland

Nora and daddy and I got up at 7 o'clock and had breakfast at 7:30 AM. We rushed off to catch the train for school. We had to get off at the Square and run to school as our times were slow. Well, Nora is back at school for another five days and I shall fetch her on Friday. At 11 o'clock we went over to look at Billy's school. The matron and miss today showed us around. It's a very nice school. We all went down to The beach bungalow for tea and we took down all the new crockery and utensils for the bungalow. It was lovely down there. Mary fell into the water and got sopping wet so Mrs.Nash had to return hurriedly. We played the gramophone after dinner till we retired to bed.

I.H.

May 6

6 Sunday (127-239)

4th after Easter. Ascension, 1910

We three went for a short walk in the morning to buy a paper and also to inquire about the charabancs trip and we booked for Weymouth this afternoon. A car came to take us to the Square at 2:30 and at 3 o'clock we got into the Charabanc and set off. It was a very enjoyable trip. They did not give us much time at Weymouth only half an hour. We walked along the sea front until the time was up. We got back at the Square at seven. Matron and Miss Day called on this when we got back so it delayed our supper until long after nine. We stayed up till after 10:30 as it was Nora's last night.

I.H.

May 5

5 Saturday (126-240)

S.R. 5.26, S.S. 8.29

I took Mary and Billy on the beach and Nora and daddy went shopping and joined us later on the beach. We had a very light tea and supper at 6:45 so that we could leave the house in time to reach the Theater Royal. We got down to the theater in good time and bought chocs at the entrance. We had excellent seats and enjoyed the show although it was far too sad to play. We managed to catch the last tram back to Southbourne. Well we have certainly enjoyed ourselves so far. Next Saturday we will be seeing "Aloma" at the same theater. I think it will be a good one


I.H.

May 4

4 Friday (125-241)
Full moon, 9.12 p.m.

Mrs. Nash and I went shopping and daddy went out on his own. After tiffin we read till 3 o'clock and all went by train to fetch Nora from school, and daddy stayed at home to receive us. Nora was ready waiting for us at 3:30 and as I was told to fetch her at 10 to 4 she had to wait some minutes. Nora brought out my tennis racket and various other articles so we certainly had our hands full. We arrived back here at 4:45. After tea we sat in the garden and talked about our trip back to Shanghai and various matters about our flat out there. We all had dinner together again as we did in the holidays.

I.H.

May 3 Tom

3 Thursday (124 242)

After breakfast I took Mary down to the beach Bungalow. Billy joined us later. We spent the whole morning there. Daddy went to see uncle Tom and Mrs. Nash and I went out shopping. In the afternoon we sat out in the garden and talked.

I.H.

May 2

2 Wednesday (123-243)

We stayed in this morning as it didn't look too inviting outside. I just went to buy some fruit at the Carbury stores and a few oddments. Mrs. Nash, daddy and I went into Bournemouth in the afternoon and we had tea at "Beale's" and had a Sunday each two. I had a "Pineapple Surprise", and it was a surprise to! There was nothing but pineapple in it. Mrs. Nash had a "Raspberry Temptation" and daddy had a "Beale's Special". I think that his was the best. I have now finished another book called the "Web of Toil" a most interesting and amusing book, though sad in parts. We have now been back a week in Southbourne.

I.H.

May 1, 1928

1 Tuesday (122-244)
 S.S. Philip and James

Daddy and I went into Bournemouth to book tickets for that show called "The Silver Cord". We got very good seats in row 13 of the dress circle. The stalls for Saturday were all booked so it would be a good play. We all went down to the beach bungalow for tea. We forgot the knife to cut the cakes and bread so we had to eat in "picnic" fashion. Fine fun. We came back at 6:45 and I bathed the kids and put them to bed and also wrote a letter to cheer Nora up. We played the gramophone after dinner. Mrs Nash was reading and daddy writing to Nora. She ought to get our letters tomorrow mid-day I think.

I.H.

April 30 "Phyllis's Wedding"

30 Monday (121-245)

Spent the morning buying tuck and various other articles for Nora to take back to school this evening. Had lunch early and rushed off to Phyllis's wedding in our new swish frocks. The wedding was at All Saints, Branksome and Phyllis certainly looked a charming bride. We went to the Branksome Tower Hotel for the reception and had a lovely time. Phyllis and her husband thanked us for our wedding presents. We sent the bride off to London and went back to the Hutton's house to see the wedding presents they certainly had a lovely lot of presents. Our entree dishes were the only pair they had so they were very pleased with them. We saw Nora back to school and chatted for a long time with Miss Haskell, and we nearly missed the last car back.

I.H.

April 29

29 Sunday (120-246)
Third after Easter

We stayed at home all day as the weather was not too good. We just went for a short walk around to the old flat and that was all. We read our books and played with the children most of the day. We are now getting more settled into this new house and by the end of next week things will be in full swing again. Nora spent a little time doing a bit of packing for school tomorrow. Now that Nora will be at school for the next three months except for the weekends, I shall keep up this diary until she comes home for good.

I.H.

April 28

28 Saturday (119-247)
S.R. 5.38 S.S. 8.17

We went shopping with daddy in Bournemouth. Bought or stockings and gloves for the Wedding day. We bought Iris's hat from "Plumer's" too. We arrived back late for tiffin and were only in time to say goodbye to Miss Jones who is returning to London by chara-banc today. I'm sure we will miss her. In the afternoon Nora took Mary and Billy on the beach and I went with Daddy to Boscombe. Bought a pair of shoes at "True-Forms" It was pourng rain when we got back to the house.

I.H.

April 27 "Nash move from Pinecliffe"

27 Friday (118-248)

We went into Bournemouth to buy Phyllis's wedding present. We bought two lovely silver entrée dishes which we hope she will like and Nora and I are giving her six silver spoons and Mrs. Nash bought a cut glass vase to give her. I stayed with the children in the afternoon and Nora went out with daddy and Mrs. Nash. We bought a little powder box which we are going to send to Hilda. Mrs. Nash has still a lot of moving to do yet. The trunks came over this evening from 12 Pinecliffe Avenue.


I.H.

* This was Phyllis Hutton

April 26

26 Thursday (117-249)
First Quarter 10.42 p.m.


Went over to the old flat for breakfast. Daddy stayed in to take care of the house while we both went shopping and also to school to get some things out. Daddy, Nora and Mrs. Nash went to buy a new bed, while I took Mary and Billy on the beach. Came back at 5:30 PM and arrive late 40. Mrs. Jones was with us for about half an hour as she joined us later. We played the gramophone and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We all helped to get dinner ready. It is 10 o'clock now and everyone has retired except me. Amah went to the theater with Mrs. Jones tonight and I expect they are thoroughly enjoying themselves.

I.H.

April 25 "Back in Bournemouth, at Clifton"

25 Wednesday (116-250)
S. Mark

Had breakfast at Lyon's and went to "True-Forms" and bought a lovely pair of shoes each. Then we went to several shops to try and get a two-piece for me and at the last moment got one from "C and A's" a very nice shop. We had to rush back to catch our train at 12:30 PM.
Had a good lunch on the train; arrived very punctual at B'mouth Central, and came straight to Clifton Bellevue Rd, our new address. Went down to the beach bungalow til near 7:30 PM. Returned to the old house for dinner. Had a very good time. Slept in the house without the Nash's as they will remain at Charford til all the things are moved over.

I.H.

April 24 "London, Limehouse"

24 Tuesday (115-251)

Woke up quite late. Iris rang Hilda up and got her on the phone. She came around to the Hotel Belgravia at about 10:30 AM and we all went shopping. Mrs. Nash bought a lovely two-piece suit and a hat to match and so did Nora. I could not have time to get any thing. Mrs Nash had to catch the 12:30 PM train. We bought Hilda a flower button-hole and gave her 2/6 as a little gift. She had to leave us at 12 as she had to go back to sleep being on night duty again. We had tiffin at the Waterloo Station and went to the Limehouse and bought a lot of Chinese stuff.
Freeman's came to dinner and then after that we all went off to the Colosseum to see a variety show. Very good but not to compare with Paris. I think we made a swell evening for the Freeman's and ourselves. Went to bed after 12:30
PM.

I.M.

April 23 "Calais to Dover"

23 Monday (114-252)
S George

Got up early and had breakfast. Daddy rang up to say goodbye to Mr. Phillips. We left Paris by the 10 o'clock train for  Calais. Took the 2:30 PM boat to Dover. Had terrible trouble with the customs over our watches and silk dresses, that we were late for our train. Anyway we got back to London at 7:30 and rang up the Freemans and Hilda. At dinner the Freemans rang up and we have invited them to dinner tomorrow night. We are all tired after the trip so will retire to bed quite early. Mrs. Nash leaves us tomorrow morning.

I.H.

April 22

22 Sunday (113-253)
2nd after Easter
Summer Time commences

We hired a taxi to see Paris this morning. We visited the following places, Notre Dame where we attended the latter end of a service. Very interesting ceremony. Then we saw the Places of the Bastille Republic, and Boulevards, and Place de la Concorde, Champs d'Elysee, Etoile, Tour Eiffel and the place of Napoleons Tomb called Invalides. Most interesting and enjoyable morning tour. We also went into a church called Sacred Heart.

In the afternoon we went to Versailles in a private car. A Mr. Phillips joined us and was a very nice man indeed and quite interesting to talk to. We visited the palace, the Grand Trinian and the Petite Trinian, the coach house and Marie Antoinnette's farm. Mr. Phillips took a couple of snaps which he is going to send to us in remembrance of our trip and company. We all enjoyed ourselves.

I.H.

April 21

21 Saturday (112-254)
S.R. 4.52,  S.S. 7.6

We went shopping at the Magasin du Louvre and we're disappointed. It had gone down since 1924. Iris bought a dark blue Crepe de Chine frock and I bought two, one pale blue, the other a queer shade of pink.
Next we went to Galleries Lafayette and bought some powder and a handbag for mummy. We had lunch at the hotel. After that we went to see the famous Art Galleries du Louvre. The paintings were wonderful and needed at least a fortnight to impress one. We had tea in an open air café (on the pavement) We had coffee and strawberry ices and a little fruit cakes. It was fun!


N.H.

April 20

20 Friday (111-255)
New moon, 4:55 AM

We were down to breakfast at 9:30 AM. After that we went to the Louvre Hotel about charabancs but they did not have them anymore. Then we went by taxi to Thomas Cook's and then to the hotel again. In the end we took a taxi for 200 francs to Fontainbleau for the day. We stopped at the hotel Charmantes, Barbignon for lunch and also saw Millets house.
The palace at Fontainbleu was very interesting. Then we drove back to Paris and to the Eiffel Tower and ascended it. We went right up and then had tea in the restaurant there. We came back to dinner. After that we wrote our letters and then of course we retired to bed like the girls.

N.H.

April 19 "Paris"

19 Thursday (110-256)
Primrose day, 1881

We got up at 6 AM and caught by the skin of our teeth the 730 train. Our luggage was brought by the hotel car and not brought into the station. Daddy went in search of it but failed twice and it two minutes to 1/2 past, past daddy started out again luckily managed to get it. No sooner were we in the train than it started. I truly lucky escape! The scenery was quite beautiful. We went to Paris by a "Belfort" and "Chaumont". We arrived at 5:30 and then went to the hotel Sainte Anne . After dinner we went to see the "Grand Follies" a review at the Berjou. It was wonderful. Lines and beautiful shapes were imitated. The costumes and scenery was also wonderful. We were in bed about 12:30 PM and were tired out after the strenuous day.

N.H.

April 18

18 Wednesday (109-257)

We got up at 7:40 AM and had breakfast. Then we got our tickets for the Pilatus trip. We took a small paddle steamer called the "Rheim"  and before we had got very far we were told that we could not go to Pilatus of this because there was too much snow. Thus, we ended up with a lake trip as far as help "Alpnachstad". We had an hour at that village. We went into a small shop and bought some PCs and chocolates. Then we went to the Rosseli Hotel and had a light refreshment. Then we went back to the ship and left at 12:07 PM. The scenery was glorious specially the villages and the view of Lucerne. We got back at 1:30 and had lunch at the hotel. After that we went by tram and then took the railway for Sonneberg. We had a splendid view of Lucerne and Pilatus. Then we walked through some beautiful forests and took the railway to lift to "Guich barn" (station) and then back by tram. The whole cost 10 francs.

N.H.

April 17

17 Tuesday ( 108-258)
Easter Law Sittings begin

After yesterday's journey found it difficult to rise before 10 AM. It was raining and so we walked around the shops.  We went in to have Iris's watch seen to at Bucherer. It would cost 8 francs to clean it and so by exchanging we obtained a more expensive and fashionable watch. It is oblong in shape, gold wit black enamel design on it, quite unique. It cost 80 francs. Then of course I had one too. Mine is gold with navy blue design. It is similar in shape and cost 100 francs.
They were our birthday presents from daddy and jolly nice presents too!
We had lunch at the Hotel. The weather cleared up after lunch and so we went for a drive around Lake Zug in a private taxi. The scenery was beautiful. We saw Rigi and Pilatus quite clearly. We saw an old 14th century clock tower and Zug. We had dinner at the Huguaria There was a jazz band and we danced. We had  a very enjoyable time!

N.H.

April 16 "Lucerne"

16 Monday ( 107-259)

We got up at 6 AM and left Berlin by the 7:40 train for Lucerne. For a few hours the scenery was quite ordinary, flat and tree-less. Later we saw some pretty villages. We played bridge during the morning and daddy and Nora won the rubber. In the afternoon we played one game of consequences. We had breakfast, lunch and dinner on the train. At 9:15 we arrived at the German station of Basel. We had our passports examined.

Then we were told to change trains at the Swiss station of Basel on account of our train having lost time and we each had to pay a supplement of 3 marks because that train was the fastest flyer in Germany. We arrived in Lucerne at 11:45 and came straight to the Hotel du Cygne at Rigi. It was raining but still we were not damped by it. We slept pretty soundly that night.

I.H.

April 15 "Potsdam"

15 Sunday (106-260)
Low Sunday

Woke up very late, had breakfast and went to pick up the  Chara-banc for Potsdam, the summer palace of Frederick 11. A lovely drive out, it was snowing very hard and the scenery was very picturesque. Went over the Palace Sanssouci, "without trouble", a most beautiful palace somewhat like Versailles from the outside. Then we went over Potsdam Castle a gorgeous palace which took us over an hour to look at. It even had a theatre of it's own. The most lovely floors and furniture seen by us.
Came back about 5:45, went into the tea-dance. Danced until 7 PM. Had dinner in the ballroom and danced until 11:30 PM Lovely time. Another late night again but still every moment has been enjoyable. Saw the magnificent "Shell Room" of Frederick 11.

I.H.

April 14 "Berlin"

14 Saturday ( 105-261)

Had a breakfast after arriving at the Central Hotel Berlin. Went shopping in the morning at tiffin out at a German restaurant where they gave us more than enough to eat. Went for a trip in a Charabanc around the streets of Berlin. Saw the wonderful Avenue of Statues and some very beautiful avenues. Nora bought a black coat with fur collar at Tietz the second largest shop in Berlin. Had dinner in the Grill Room and later went into the dance hall. A ripping orchestra played and there was a special couple doing variety dancing. We had spotlight dances and we all danced with each other. We did not get to bed till after 12 PM after a lovely evening. Our first public dance for several years.

I.H.

April 13

13 Friday (104-262)
Last Quarter 8.9 a.m.

This morning we did a morning trip to the "Battlefield of Waterloo". We went in a the private car with a good guide. Saw the various famous buildings on the way out. On the way we stopped to see the house were Wellington stayed before the battle and also where is aide-de-camp Gordon died. We bought an old copy of the newspaper published after the fight and several other little souvenirs.
Stopped for tiffin at a little restaurant at the foot of the lion monument (built seven years after the battle) The monument had 226 steps up to the lion. On the way back we went into see a Brussels lace factory. Bought a lace hankie each. Left for Berlin by the 3 PM train. Lovely scenery most of the way. Arrived Berlin 7 AM next morning

I.H.

April 12 "Brussels"

12 Thursday (103-263)

Went shopping quite early but ourselves each an umbrella and bag in Iris got a pair of shoes and silk stockings. Return to the "Belgravia" for lunch. Left 3 PM for Dover. We got on the steamer at Dover for Ostend. Had quite a fair crossing but rather cold when the sun was in. At Ostend we got on the train for Brussels where we had dinner as soon as the train started. At 10:20 we arrived at Brussels and went to stay at the Palace Hotel there for the night.
Saw a little of Brussels by night when we had settled in the hotel. Had lovely rooms with bathrooms attached. Luxury! The hotel is a lovely one too.

I.H.

April 11 "London"

11 Wednesday (100-264)

We all got up early to finish off our parking. Taxi game for us at 9 AM and we went to pick up Mrs. Nash. Said goodbye to Mrs. Jones and Mary and Billy. Went up to London on the 10:30 train arriving Waterloo at 1 o'clock. We then went to the Hotel Belgravia and had lunch. Went shopping for the rest of the day. Bought coat, hat, etc. for Iris and returned to change for dinner. Had ripping dinner and wrote letters afterwards to the Paytons and mummy. Had a lovely hot bath before going to bed and slept soundly till next morning. Very swish hotel quite in the center of London.

I.H.

April 10

10 Tuesday (101 265)

We went shopping with daddy this morning. Got our passports, went to Thomas Cook's and spent the morning arranging for our trip on the continent. Thrills!!!

Went to Mrs. Nash's after tiffin and took her with us into Bournemouth. We went on the beach where it was very crowded. Nora and daddy took one trunk to Mrs. Nash after dinner and Iris finished packing up. Three cheers!! for tomorrow our longed for trip, begins.

I.H.

April 9

9 Monday (100-266)
Easter Monday   Bank Holiday
Lady Day Fire Insurance ceases

Went down to see the Beach Bungalow again. It's nearly finished and Mrs Jones will be able to take possession of it soon. We went into Bournemouth and had tea at Bobby's and then we watched some people playing tennis. Not very good play.

I.H.

April 8

8 Sunday (99-267)
Easter Day

We went to early morning church 8 o'clock. All Saints was very full and we had to wait about 15 minutes before the first people came out. We went to tea with Mrs. Nash this afternoon and danced a little after tea to show daddy some new steps.
Came back to Danecourt for dinner. Went to bed at about 10 PM after a little chat with Hope and her mother. Mrs. Nash gave us each a nice Easter egg and daddy gave us one also. We gave Billy and Mary and egg each and Mrs. Nash a pair of silk stockings.

I.H.

April 5-7

5 to 7 April

These few days were likely spent  reacquainting themselves with their father who had just arrived in England after four long years away from his daughters. They would have explored the towns around the school and arranged for accommodations for the next few months. Iris was finished school but Nora was still attending until her exams in July.

BB

April 4

4 Wednesday (95-271)
Hilary Law Sittings end

We broke up at 10 AM and daddy arrived at 10:45. Iris had to say goodbye to Miss Stocks and so was delayed for some time. We got in a taxi and went to Danecourt. The feeling of freeness was lovely.
We new we were going to have a grand time because daddy was with us.

N.H

April 3 "Daddy Arrives"

3 Tuesday (94-272)

The great day arrived at last. We could hardly contain our excitement through the morning. It was Iris's last day at school. School ended last and we tour over to dinner. After dinner we changed into our Navy costumes and went to the station. Unlucky it was raining and so we had to wear our Macs. When we got there we found that Mrs. Nash was there too. At exactly 3:05 PM that he arrived. It was the happiest time of our lives. When all was settled we got in a taxi and went to Charford. We talked and daddy gave us a box of chocolates called "Dreams of Hollywood" (brought all the way from Shanghai.) We had tea then found the Danecourt. We walked along the cliffs and altogether had a thoroughly good time. We had a glorious dinner at Charford and about 10 PM we returned to school after the most thrilling of days. We both slept well as we knew the next day would be still more glorious.

N.H.

April 2

2 Monday  (93-273)

We had our last day's lessons this morning. We did some packing in the afternoon. We went over to the history library for prep. We rushed and discovered a telegram for us.

N.H.

April 1, 1928

1 Sunday (90-274)

Palm Sunday

We both went to our first communion this morning at 8 AM. Then we wrote our letters. We went to Martin's. After dinner we did our holiday packing and were surprised to find what a short time it took. Then we did some of our box room packing. We went to the school service at 5 PM. Then we wrote to mummy, Mrs. Hutton and auntie May. Daddy left Berlin today and we expect them to arrive in London tomorrow at 4:30 PM. Three cheers! Who would believe our darling daddy was so near his girls. We aren't to have another telegram tomorrow. What thrills! The day after tomorrow we will all be together once more. For all years ago we were having our last day in Shanghai.

N.H.

March 31

31 Saturday (91-275)
S.R.5.39, S.S 6.31

We had a letter from mummy by the first post. When we came back from painting there was a telegram from Daddy. He has arrived safely at Berlin and will wire again to give us hos train times and what time he will arrive on Tuesday.
We are simply mad with joy, it is lovely to see that telegram, it makes it seem much more real.
Nora had her tooth out today with gas, she didn't have much pain but it was rather troublesome because it bled for so long. We spent the afternoon pressing our dresses. Her is the telegram which we are going to stick on the opposite page so that we may have it as long as we have this diary


I.H.

March 30

30 Friday (90-276)

We had two Easter eggs sent to us from Mrs. Happen. They are lovely ones with Oxford ribbons around and full of chocolates. We got a letter from Mrs. Nash and she said she was going up to London and wished to hear news of daddy. We went shopping this afternoon to get our watches and change Haskie's book and get a few oddments for other girls. Our watches are going very well at present and we hope they'll continue to do so.

 The Wonderful Telegram

I.H.

March 29

29 Thursday (89-277)

No letters came for us today. In the afternoon we went t the dentist by tram. We went miles past his place and had to walk back. Iris had one tooth filled only. Nora is to go on Saturday to have a tooth out. We walked back as the trams were so slow although it was raining.
Mr Moore came tonight and we had the answers to questions written the week before. it was very interesting and quite amusing to hear some of the questions asked.
We did a good deal of our own mending during that hour or so.
Daddy is at Moscow today. Three cheers!! Daddy will be with us soon.
We bought Oxford rosettes today ie: St George's make.

I.H.

March 28

28 Wednesday (88-278)
First Quarter 11.54 a.m.

This morning Iris made a Dundee cake for daddy. We hope it will not be stale by Tuesday. Auntie May and Uncle Tom said goodbye to us at about 2 o'clock and brought us a parcel from Auntie Joe. There were two lovely and embroidered petticoats for us. We then went to our last confirmation class and Mr. Moore gave us each a book called "Communion and Offering". We could not go out to tea with Auntie May in the end because of being back before 4:30 Another a great event was the dancing competition. We had the Waltz and Miss Chester judged us. We did not win but we had a good chance so the girl said afterwards. "Blokie" and "Snuzz" won the senior and Maggie and Joan Sunderland the  junior. So Saint Georges girls came in well. Auntie May sent us each a box of chocs by Eunice and Oxford rosettes. A busy day!

I.H.

March 27

27 Tuesday (87-279)

We received no letters today, sad to say. Iris has a violin lesson this afternoon and told Mr Lewis that she was leaving at the end of this term. He was very sorry to hear it he said.
We both had a science class and Miss Richards let us go early to watch the staff Match. It was against VI A and a very good match it was too. The staff lost.
Peggy Welsh has given me these snaps so I'm putting them in.

Iris, Sheila, Noelle

I.M

March 26

26 Monday (86-280)

We had a funny letter from Jack this morning, thanking us for the cake we sent him for his birthday.
Iris had Hygiene and Nora a Violin lesson.
No letter came from Daddy by the last post as we hope but perhaps it will turn up tomorrow.
Daddy is probably passed Omsk by now and getting nearer to us day by day.
Thrills!!!!

Wimbourne Minster

I.H.

March 25 "Jacque's Birthday"

25 Sunday  (85-281)
Passion Sunday. Annunciation of B.V. M
Lady Day  (Quarter Day)

James Gabriel ( Jacques ) Payton

We did not go to early church today as next Sunday we are going three times. We went for a walk this afternoon with Iris Martin. We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. We saw one empty house so we went into the garden and had a peep at it. It was a lovely big house with a very large rooms in a ballroom. We have had our last Sunday walk this this term because next Sunday we do our packing. Thrills! Daddy is at Krasnoyarsk today and is probably leaving again for Novosibirsk. We have written to mummy and the Paytons today.
Today is Jack's birthday.

I.H.

March 24

24 Saturday  (84-282)
S.R. 5.54, S.S. 6.20

Daddy will be with us in 10 days time. Three cheers! Daddy arrives at Irkutsk today. After painting we went downtown and did some shopping. We both had our haircut. We met Auntie May and Uncle Tom on our way back. We are going out with them this Wednesday. We packed our box room trunks from 130 to 3:30 PM and again from 430 to 530. Then we did prep till supper and again after supper. We had a jolly busy day but it was fun packing because it made us realize that daddy would be with us soon. Hip hip hurrah!


N.H.

March 23 - Auntie May arrival

23 Friday (83-283)

Daddy will be with us in 11 days time! Hip, hip, hurray! Daddy is most likely speeding on his way the moment I am writing this ie; 7:40 AM. You are to arrive at Chita today. Eunice says that Auntie May is arriving today and so we might see her soon! in the afternoon we watched the junior netball finals between Drake and Nelson. Drake won 29 to 7. Jolly good, Drake. Raleigh won the senior. Nora went to the classical society lecture called the "Lure of Latin" by Miss Gedge. It was wonderful and most amusing! We did prep after tea.

N.H.

March 22

22 Thursday 82–284

We were surprised to receive a parcel from Mr. and Mrs. Freeman. It contained A half pound of Lyons nippy chocolates. Mrs. Freeman said it was to make the term fly more quickly. Anyhow they came in beautifully last night in the dorm! Iris, Thelma and myself went to the dentist at 2:30. Iris and myself are going again. Iris is having a tooth filled and I am having a tooth out with gas! Terrible! Fancy in 12 days time daddy will be with us! Three cheers for daddy! Daddy left Manchuria today!

N.H

March 21 - Confirmation Ceremony

21 Wednesday (81-85)
Vernal Equinox   New Moon, 8:29 PM

The great day as begun! In two weeks time today we break up and we will be with daddy! Three cheers! Time is now beginning to fly! We came out of school at 12:30 and read until dinner. Straight after dinner we changed into our white silk dresses. Unluckily it was raining and so we had to go in a taxi to Saint Michael's. When we arrived there Miss Haskell put on our veils! They were plain white muslin with a white cross on each. The service lasted from three to 4:15 PM and it was a lovely service. The Bishop of Winchester confirmed us. After the service we met Mrs. Nash outside the church and returned to Saint. George's for tea. We had a glorious time. After tea the Bishop of Winchester, Mr. Moore and his son David came. We were greatly honored with the visit. Mrs Nash departed at 6 PM and we i.e. Iris, Betty Watling and myself sat round a fire and talked. We had a wonderful time. We had a letter from Mr. Payton.

N.H

March 20

20 Tuesday (80-286)

We had no letters by the first post. There was a parcel awaiting us at 1 o'clock from Mr. and Mrs. Freeman. It contained two confirmation books "Before the Altar" It is very good of them to remember us. Nora had a violin lesson from 2:30 till 3 PM and both Iris and Nora had a science lesson from three till 3:45 PM. After supper we went up to the box room got a few things out and tidied up our boxes a little. Then we washed each others hair. We both completed our spring cleaning with a bath.

N.H.

March 19

19 Monday (79-287)

We had no letters by the first post. We had a letter from mummy at 1 PM saying that mummy had been in bed with a sore throat. She is better now. We went for our last confirmation class at 2:30. We went over the service and were given some papers. After prep we both flew back to St George's in hopes of having a letter from daddy! We were not disappointed. Daddy has got his visa etc and all is arranged for his departure on the 14th. Unfortunately, daddy will arrive two or three days later than we expected but still we know that daddy won't delay his arrival unless it is to "wash up" after his journey! The letter was lovely. We expect two more before daddy's arrival.

N.H

March 18

18 Sunday (78-288)
4th in Lent

We went to early church this morning. After breakfast we wrote our letters. Then we went to church again. Iris, Margaret Clifford and Nora went for an exploring walk along Alum Chine and the Branksome Woods. It was great fun. After tea we played the grammie for a while and then we did prep. This time a fortnight we will be with daddy! Three cheers for daddy! What thrills!
We did prep again after supper. We hope to have a letter from daddy tomorrow.
Daddy has left Harbin now and is on his way to Chita.

N.H.

March 17

17 Saturday (77-289)
S. Patrick (Holiday in Ireland)
S.R. 6.11, S.S. 6.7

We have had a glorious day today. Mrs Nash came for us at 10:30 AM. She brought Mary with her this time. We went to "Beal's" and had "ices" Nora had a "Coupe Jacques", Mrs Nash, a strawberry sundae and Iris a "Rainbow" one. We then went to their flat and played the gramophone, ( theirs) until tiffin. We had a grand tiffin too. We showed Mrs Nash our plans for Easter and she seems pleased with them. She will probably let us know soon if she is going to join us on the tour. We went to watch a "Rugger Match" at Cliff House School, Billy's school. It was most amusing. We came back to tea and talked about the new house Mrs Nash is getting. We saw the house this afternoon and it looked extremely nice.
We have invited Mrs Nash to attend our confirmation on Wednesday.

I.H

March 16

16 Friday (76-290)

We had a letter from Dolly today. The Paytons are staying at Bickington, lucky people!
We simply envy them being on Dartmoor.
Iris did work for the Geographical Society this afternoon from 3:30-4:30 pm

We did prep this evening over in the Library, per usual.

I.H.

March 15

15 Thursday 75 to 91

We picked up the Jacque's cake and posted it this afternoon and went together for a short walk. Mr. Moore came this evening and continue just talk on prayer we did needle-work i.e. Nora did rosettes for the Oxford and Cambridge boat race and Iris did her petticoat.

I.H

March 14

14 Wednesday (74-292)
Last quarter, 3.20 PM

We went to the Wagner concert at the Winter Gardens this afternoon. Bertram Louis was the principal violinist in the orchestra and Queenie Major played the second violin. The orchestra played the "Flying Dutchman", "Tannhauser", "Lohengren" and several other pieces of Wagner's. They ended the program by playing "Shepherds Hey" by Percy Grainger. It was a lovely, jolly time and cheered us all up after they rather sad music. After tea we went to our confirmation class. It ended at 6:15. We then came back and changed for dancing. We had a very nice dancing lesson. We only learned a few new steps this time. The competition is on March 28 and we will have to dance the waltz. I was made a Jacques birthday cake this morning. It was a Cherry Sandwich cake.

I.H.

March 13

13 Tuesday (73-293)

We had a letter from Mrs Nash inviting us out for the day on Saturday the 17th  of March. She said that she was going to talk things over with us then. We hope to decide where Daddy will stay when he arrives.
She has got another house nearer Billy's school now, she did not say when they were moving.

I.H.

March 12 ( Exchange rate )

12  Monday (72-294)

We received a very thrilling letter from Daddy in which he said he was only three weeks away from his departure. He told us that the exchange was still not as good as it might be. On 1924 it was 3/4 dollars to the tael and now it is only two 2/7 to the tael. We hope the exchange will be better before long. Iris went to singing this afternoon and heard some of Wagner's pieces, which are going to be played at the school concert on Wednesday. We went into Miss Haskell's room to have a little talk with her on confirmation.


I.H.

March 11

11 Sunday (71-295)
Third in Lent

We went to early-morning church. It was freezing this morning. I believe it was 5° below freezing point after breakfast. We went for a walk this afternoon with Margaret Clifford. It has been snowing quite a lot today on and off. Three weeks today that he will be here. Three cheers! He leaves Shanghai in three days.

I.H.

March 10

10 Saturday (70-296)
S.R 6.26, S.S. 5.55

We went downtown to have coffee and cakes with Mrs. Hawes. We waited for a long time before she turned up and we're just going back when she met us and took us up to Smith's tea room. It is a quaint tea place in rather an old fashion design all panels and beams and old China etc. We listen to the orchestra play while we ate and chatted. After that we walked to Dowling's where Mrs. Hawes bought us each a packet of chocolates. We did the rest of our shopping with her and at about 1;10 her brother drove us back to St. George's. We were late for lunch but did not get into trouble

I H

March 9

9 Friday (69-297)

No letters came for us at all today. We hope for one from Daddy tomorrow. School went on as usual. We watched a net ball match between Franklin in Raleigh Halls this afternoon. Very close game but in the end Raleigh won by 16 -15 goals.
We did prep over in the library. After supper we played the gramophone till bedtime. We played "Hear Ye Israel" twice because it was so beautiful.

I.H

March 8

8 Thursday (68-298)

Iris's savings book came back this morning and that was all we got from the post. We went shopping in the afternoon to get gloves and shoes for the confirmation day. We got some very nice patent leather shoes which will come in useful later as afternoon shoes. We bought some ribbon to re-trim Iris's hat. Mr. Moore came tonight and talked to us about prayer. It was very interesting indeed.

I.H.

March 7

7 Wednesday (67-299)

We received a letter from Margaret today a great surprise because she has never written to us before. We could not think who knew us at Exeter from the postmark. We went to confirmation class this afternoon. We had a ripping dancing class. Iris has a dance with Miss Norman and enjoyed it thoroughly.

I.H

March 6

6 Tuesday (66-300)
Full Moon 11.27 AM

We received no letters by the first and second post but we hope for one by the last. I was had a very funny violin lesson with Mr. Lewis. Miss Brown came in to ask if her diagram of Dan Godfrey's orchestra was right, and if Mr. Lewis could get a photo of "Sir Dan" Mr. Lewis said he had one of him feeding pigs, or his back view, which might be nice. We all laughed at the suggestion of it. Tomorrow we shall be able to say that daddy's journey across Siberia begins in only a week. How thrilling it must be getting for him now. I will still work for the Geographical Society tonight and Nora did prep.

I.H.

March 5

5 Monday (65 -301)

We had two letters today one from Jesse and the other from Billy. We watched a junior netball match between Drake (Iris's Hall) and Cabot Hall. Drake won 33 to 28 goals. A good game to watch.
In Jessie's letter she told us that she had been to a progressive dinner i.e. they went to the first house to have soup, the next by car for salad, then on to house after house until the dinner ended, when they finished up with a dance. We think it must've been fine fun. Miss Haskell wishes to see our confirmation dresses. We hope our white silk frocks will be all right for the occasion.
Nora did prep this evening and Iris did needlework in the junior common room.

I.H
N.H

March 4

4 Sunday (64-302)
Second in Lent

We only went once to church today because of the school service in the evening.
We went for a lovely long walk in the afternoon, round ranks in this way. It was a day one might expect in the summer, the sun was so hot. Bealy brought back "Hear Ye, Israel" for us to play. It was lovely but not so beautiful as "Hear my Prayer", Master Lough's first record.
We did prep till bedtime. Edna asked to see us after supper and gave us a packet of chocolates and sweets each. It was good of her to remember us. She came down for her afternoon. She asked after daddy and mommy and as to how we were progressing.

I.H
N.H

March 3

3 Saturday (63-303)
Ember Day
S.R. 6.41, S.S. 5.44

We had painting this morning. At about 11 o'clock we went shopping, Iris bought material for underwear which she is making up into Cami-bockers, camisole and knickers. The material is cream Shantune and we bought some lovely cream lace to trim them. We reckon out that all three garments will cost about 7/6 altogether, not so bad! We will probably be making a lot more when we have more money. We had a thrilling letter from Daddy plus photo of him. He looks the same dear Daddy and not changed at all, in fact he looks fine. He gave us the train times and we will follow him on his journey. He arrives on March 31 few days earlier than expected. Hurray!! Thrills, will all be together soon! Cheerio, pom-pom.

I.H
N.H

March 2

2 Friday (62-304)
Ember Day

I returned to school today after a few days in bed and am glad to get to work again.
In the afternoon we watched the staff net-ball match, it was too funny for words, to see them play, they were so exhausted they played only 10 minutes at a time, and sat down in chairs too!
We won in the end but it was a good exciting game.
We went to "Lit" this afternoon and heard "The Three Wayfarers" by Thomas Hardy read.
It was dramatized for Miss Rowe and there are only two copies of it in England so we were lucky to hear it. Miss  Rowe read to us too.

I.H.

March 1 1928

1 Thursday (61-359)
St David. Fly Fishing begins

Iris was still in bed and got up at 11 AM but did not go to school. We had no letters at all.
Mr Moore came in the evening.
Nora is reading "Boscobel" by Harrison Ainsworth and finds it thrilling.

N.H.


Wikipedia: William Harrison Ainsworth (4 February 1805 – 3 January 1882) was an English historical novelist born at King Street in Manchester. He trained as a lawyer, but the legal profession held no attraction for him. While completing his legal studies in London he met the publisher John Ebers, at that time manager of the King's Theatre, Haymarket. Ebers introduced Ainsworth to literary and dramatic circles, and to his daughter, who became Ainsworth's wife.

February 29

29 Wednesday (60-306)
Ember Day

This is a terrible day! Exam results!
Iris did quite well, her maximum being 76 and 1st for Geography. Nora's max was 70 for History.
We both managed to scrape through fairly well. We had a singing practice and a confirmation class this afternoon. Nora went to dancing alone as Iris was still in bed.

I.H
N.H

February 28

Tuesday 28 ( 59-307)
First Quarter, 3.21 a.m.

School again. We had not letters.
Iris is still in bed. Nora had Iris;s violin lesson.
Then she had science. Noelle washed Nora's hair after supper. Nora also finished
"The Last of the Barons"

Winnie, Blokie, Adele, Joan, Tosh
Taken at Bailey Gate 27th Feb

I.H

N.H.

                                                     

February 27

27 Monday (58-308)

Iris is still in bed but is a bit better. We all went for a charabanc ride at 11 AM returned at 3 PM. We went to Bailey gate and rambled round. We had our lunch on carts etc. near the charabanc.
2 PM we were already on our way back. The drive was glorious. Nora took some grapes and oranges to Iris and after tea she took the Grammie up and played it. We had quite a good time there. Another girl Cina Strong was up there in bed too. So there were three of us (sounds like a "Ten Little Nigger Boys") We have a letter from uncle George and Mrs. Hawes.

I.H
N.H

February 26

26 Sunday (57-309)
1st in Lent Ember Week

I am writing the diary today because Iris in bed. I have not been allowed to see Iris. I have been writing letters most of today,  played the gramophone and read. We had our tea buy the senior common room fire. I have written to Mummy and Hilda. I have not written to Daddy because he will leave Shanghai in 18 days time and so will not get my letter in time! In 36 days Daddy will be with us again! What thrills. The time is flying now and we are beginning to believe that he is really coming!


N.H.
I.H

February 25 "Trip Plan"

25 Saturday (56-310)
S.R 6.57, S.S. 5.31

We got up at 8:5 AM! Later than usual and had breakfast at 8:30. We have no letters by the first post! We read during the morning and also went for a walk along the beach and when we came back there was a letter from Daddy awaiting us!! It contained glorious news!! All about our travels this holidays! We are going to Switzerland, the Italian lakes, Venice etc. and back to London via Paris. We have looked up the route on the map and are overflowing with joy!!! What thrills! Three cheers for Daddy! Hip hip hooray! Unfortunately Iris retired to bed about 5 PM and so I had to miss the 5B Downs. The dance was lovely! We had supper in the dining room. The dance started at 6 PM and ended at 9:30 PM. The silence bell went at 11 PM.

N.H.

February 24

24 Friday (55-311)
S. Mathias

We had no letters by the first post. Iris had a letter and a tin of Pascal's sweets from Mrs. Freeman by the 1 PM post. We loved about in the afternoon and did some reading and also went to see a little Lawrence off at  Bournemouth. We went for a short walk after. We read again after tea, played the grammie. Here is half term again and it is Iris's last! So we are going to make the best of it. We went to bed about 9 PM and our silence bell went off at 10:30. Laura is sleeping in the irises door for Half term.

N.H.

February 23

23 Thursday (54-312)

Lessons started at 7 AM because of the service at 10:30. It was taken by the vicar of Saint Albans and was very enjoyable. Iris and Nora went down to Bobby's to have Nora's costume coat altered. It will be ready next Monday with luck. We had a look around the shops as well and had a thoroughly good time. Nora had French conversation at 3:30 to 4 PM then we had our last prep till Tuesday. Mr. Moore came.

N.H.

February 22

22 Wednesday (53-313)
As Wednesday.   Ramadan begins

We had no letters at all. The service was canceled till tomorrow. We went to our confirmation class at 2:15 to 2:45 this week as Mr. Moore had to attend a meeting. We went to the junior and senior dancing class as we missed last weeks on account of the exams. So we danced from 7:15 to 9:15 PM. Two solid hours! But it was fun!

February 21

21 Tuesday (52-314)

We have had no letters at all today despite yesterday's hopes. Everyone was on pins this morning because of the Inter-form Gym Competition. Iris's form went at 12 and Nora's at 12:45.
We all went into the gym at 2:30 and heard the criticisms and results.
C Lower won the Junior Cup, B, the middle and VI A the senior. Nora's form came 2nd with 72,
VI A, 79. Iris's form, VM was the best for "trunk flop"
We had science at 3 pm. After supper we wrote letters and read.

N.H.

February 20

20 Monday (51-315)

We went through some of our exam papers. Nora Skipped after dinner. Mr Louis had to lay in a concert at the Winter Gardens at 3 pm so Nora had a lesson of 1/4 hour. Iris had a Hygiene lesson.
Nora had extra French later on and Iris went down to MacDonald's. She is not going again for a little time to give her leg a rest. We have had no letters at all today. Very disappointing but we live in hopes of receiving one tomorrow! Iris practiced violin after supper and then we both wrote letters in the junior common room.

N.H.

February19

19 Sunday (50-316)
Quinquagesima

We went to early church this morning.
We were thoroughly tired out after the VI B dance. The V B's are giving one next Saturday.
We went to church again and then wrote letters til dinner. Iris, Margaret Clifford and myself
went in a "three" towards Coy Pond. We had a fine walk.
The V A's went to tea with Miss Haskell at 4 and stayed until 7 pm.
We had a glorious time. After supper we wrote our home letters and Nora wrote to Uncle George.

N.H

February 18

18 Saturday (49-317)
S.R. 7.11, S.S. 5.18

We went shopping this morning and met the Hawes, who stopped to talk to us for about ten minutes.
We went to the VI B Dance this evening. We enjoyed ourselves immensely. The dance lasted from 6:15 to 9:45 and it was nearly eleven before we went to bed.
Sooty told us at the dance that Billy Baker inquired about us and somebody else said a lady was looking everywhere for us this morning, so we presume that it must have been Mrs Hawes.
So everyone seems to have inquired about us.
The record "Chant sans Paroles" came from the "Paytons" today.
It was lovely.

I.H.

February 17

17 Friday  (48-318)
Candlemas Fire Insurance ceases

Today is my birthday. We did not have the French Lecture this morning so we were able to have our English paper and Hygeine paper in the morning. At one o'clock I received a birthday letter from Dorothy saying that they were going to send me a record. By the evening post I received a very nice letter from Mr Payton. I got a box of lovely brown initial note paper and a pound of chocolate from Nora. I'm seventeen today and on the seventeenth, so I ought to have a lucky year, which I am sure of now because Daddy will be here soon. Joy!!!!

I.H.

February 16

16 Thursday (47-319)

We received no letters today.
Iris only had a Botany exam yesterday, but Nora had both Botany and Latin. The Botany wasn't bad but the Latin was awful, so Nora says.
Iris went to MacDonald's yesterday afternoon with Noelle.
We have been revising "King Lear" this evening for tomorrow's exam.

I.H.

February 15

15 Wednesday (46-320)

No letters today, we had three more papers to do, two French and the History we had from 4-6 pm.
It was a wretched Senior paper,  with "discussing" and "considering" questions all through.
Iris fears that she has done very badly and so do other girls, but we hope that we'll pass, even if we only get 50 it will be better than nothing.
WE went to confirmation class this afternoon from 2:30-3:30.
We have only three more exams to do now, hurrah!

I.H.

February 14

14 Tuesday (45-321)
S. Valentines

Our savings books returned this morning and they were the only letters by post this morning.
We had the Arithmetic exam and the Anthology exam, both were awful papers.
In the afternoon Iris went to MacDonald's for knee massage ad Nora did her Latin Unseen. Everyone thought it an awful paper.
Well soon we shall have these dreadful exams over for this term at least.
Seven weeks today Daddy arrives, what joy!!

I.H.

February 13

13 Monday (44-322)
Last quarter 7.5 PM

We have received no letters today. We went over to school for prayers then we came back to the house to revise geography together in the common room. At 11:30 we went over to the English composition exam. We had three awful questions the second was decidedly the best of the lot. This afternoon we had the geography exam from 3 til 5:30 PM. The paper wasn't bad but it was so long that it hardly gave us time to think. Well that's two exams over now. Nora thought the English and geography exams were pretty bad but they might've been worse.

I.H.

February 12

12 Sunday (43-323)
Sexagesima

We went to the early service this morning and to the 11 o'clock service. We wrote her letters before dinner. After dinner we asked ask you if we could buy some oranges and apples from her she gave them two hours free because she is going to have fruit salad for tea this afternoon. We are having her birthday cake too, as on Friday we won't have enough time to celebrate Iris's birthday. The tea went off very well. We had enough to give the senior table summer Iris's cake and fruit salad. The girls drink a toast to Iris as it is her last celebration of her birthday is at school. Everyone enjoyed themselves we could see the cake was a great success.

I.H.

February 11

11 Saturday (42-324)
S.R. 7.24,  S.S. 5.5

Nora practiced gym on the bottom court from 730 to 8 AM. We went to painting. Mrs. Nash came out for us at 11 AM. We went downtown and met a friend of Mrs. Nash named Mrs. Wright. Then we went to Bobby's and had a vanilla ice. Iris had a bun and Nora a chocolate eclair.
We had a beef steak, brussel sprouts and potatoes for dinner and tapioca and cherries for pudding. We finished off with oranges and apples. After dinner we went for a walk along the lanes. Some of the fields were flooded near Christchurch. We had our tea by the fire. We had meringues, castle cakes, chocolate biscuits and other cakes. After tea we talked and played with Mary. We had a glorious time. When we came back we had a letter from Daddy, number 83 and a packet of papers. Nora had a typed letter from Dolly. We revised after supper.

N.H.

February 10

10 Friday (41-325)

Nora had a letter from Uncle George beseeching her to write. She is going to do so next week after the exams. We had a French exam which was terrible. We were just beginning to play net ball went it rained so we both went over to school and decorated Iris's birthday cake. It looks quite grand now but the icing has not set properly. Iris went to a Geographical lecture from 3:30 to 4:30 pm and Nora did revision.

N.H.

February 9

9 Thursday (40-326)

We have had no letters today. After dinner we both went downtown. First we went to the chiropodist then the post office and then Brights. Nora bought Iris some initialed writing paper and a pound of chocolate for her birthday. Nora had French conversation from 3:30 to 4 PM. Mr. Moore did not come to speak to us so we did prep instead after supper.

N.H.

February 8

8 Wednesday (39-327)

In eight weeks time we break up. Three cheers! I was had a gym practice. We had no letters by the first or second post. We went to our first confirmation class this afternoon from 230 till 3:30 PM. It was interesting. We had dancing. We had a letter from Mrs. Nash asking us to go out at 11 AM on Saturday.

N.H.

February 7

Seven Tuesday (38-328)

Nora had a gym practice at 8:30 till 8:45 AM. We had no letters by the first or second posts. We also had our first Hall meeting from 12:40 12:55 PM. I was at a violin lesson and Nora played Net ball. We both had a science lesson from three till 3:45 PM we revised again after supper. We had no letters by the 5 o'clock post. In eight weeks time daddy will be with us again! Thrills!

I.H.

February 6

Six Monday (37-329)

We had school again. At break Nora practiced for the gym. Competition with her form. We had a letter from daddy. It was numbered 82 and contained the news of Kensington college and of the racing club. We had a letter from auntie Nellie (Hong Kong) and a lace bag each. Nora had a violin lesson at 2:30 till three and extra French from 315 till 4 PM. We had another batch of papers from daddy containing the continuation of the "Daughter of Midas"
We revised geography after supper.

N.H.

February 5 " Betty Watling"

5 Sunday (36-330)
Septuagisima
Full Moon, 8.11 p.m.

We did not go to early church because of the school service. It rained this morning. We went to church and had a singing practice when we came back. We went for a walk with Betty Watling. We had an exterior view of Brent Tor on the way. We had the school service from 5 to 6 PM then we wrote our home letters. We ended the day with prep per usual

N.H.

February 4

4 Saturday (35-331)
S.R. 7.36, S.S. 4.53

We had painting this morning.
We still have had no letters so we shall have to wait until Monday now. We ought to hear from Daddy, as to where to send his letters to because before long he will be leaving Shanghai.
Thrills.
We stayed indoors all day because the weather was so bad, we played the gramophone and had a packet of toffees at our side.

I.H.

February 3

3 Friday (34-332)

No letters still, the post seems to have left us out altogether so far.
Iris went to McDonald's to have her knee done.
At 3:30 we went to"Lit" and heard "The Distracted Preacher" by Thomas Hardy" read.
We did not have time to hear the end so it will be continued at the next "Lit"
Nora is doing prep and Iris mending.

I.H.

February 2

2 Thursday (33-333)
Candlemas (Scottish Quarter Day)
Purification of B.V.M.

Still the post has brought us nothing. We hope Daddy's letter will come tomorrow.
We went for a walk with Iris Martin and on our way back we bought a paper to send to Daddy.
Mr Moore came this evening as usual and talked to us about the Epiphany.
We both did needle-work during his talk.

I.H.

February 1 1928

1 Wednesday (32-334)
Pheasant and Partridge shooting end

We still have had no letters this week. Iris made Peach Baskets for the staff dinner today. They looked a delicious "sweet" for dinner parties.
We had a singing practice from 2 -2:15 and after we played net-ball. It was quite a decent game.
We had a singing lesson from 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
At dancing this evening we both had a dance with Miss Norman. Nora had a "Blues" and Iris had a Fox-trot.

I.H.

January 31 * Note about diary

31 Tuesday (31-335)
The insurance herein contained is not valid until
your name has been registered

We have received no letters today. Iris had a violin lesson at 2 o'clock and Nora played net-ball.
We had a science lesson at three and did not appear very bright when answering questions.
Iris Martin is still reading nonsense stories to us at bed time. They're lovely and keep us in fits of laughter most of the evening.
Here we are at the end of one month of keeping this diary ( though it may appear dull to the next generation, we hope they will go on reading it just the same) knowing that while at school we have little to record except lessons.

I.H.

January 30

30 Monday (30-336)

We have received no letters today. We went through our lessons as usual. This afternoon Nora had a violin lesson and Iris had a Hygiene class.
Joyce Tolson has come to be a boarder for five weeks or so. We hope she'll like St George's.
The weeks are beginning to fly by now, we have been back at school for nearly a fortnight.
It is only nine weeks now before we will see Daddy again.
Thrills!!!

I.H.

January 29

29 Sunday (29-337)
4th after Epiphany
First Quarter, 7.26 p.m.

We went to early morning service this morning. After breakfast we wrote letters til church time.
Mr Moor preached today.
We went for a walk in threes this afternoon. Nora went with Lizzie Betwell and Jean Sunderland, and Iris went with Sheila and Squelch. Some of the girls are starting to make toast-by the fire for tea. It has been raining all day long and is miserable weather.
We are doing prep this evening because we don't have to go to Even-song as we went to early morning and eleven o'clock service.

I.H.

January 28

28 Saturday (28-338)

We went to painting from 9 AM till 10:30. We had our hair cut before we went. It was raining and so we did not go out at all for a walk. We read in the afternoon and played the gramophone. After tea we did prep and again after supper.
 Nora began reading "The Last of the Barons" Iris is reading the "Rough Road"

N.H.

January 27

27 Friday (27-339)

We had a long letter each from Dolly. She is luckier than we imagined for she is not going back to school at all now until next term so we expect a good number of letters this term. Iris played net ball and Nora went for a walk with Laura Carney. Iris read and Nora did prep till 4 PM.
After we did prep again and again after supper.

N.H.

January 26

26 Thursday (26-340)

We received a parcel in a long letter from Mrs. Freeman. The parcel contained a buttonhole each enclosed into gold boxes. They are very smart. It rained and so there was no hockey. Iris Martin accompanied me in my violin practice Iris, Iris Martin and myself went for a short walk. We returned at about 2:45 PM.
Nora went to French conversation at 3:30 to 4 PM.
Gertrude came to supper. She told us she was going to be on night duty that very night.

N.H.

January 25

25 Wednesday (25-341)

We had prayers at 9:15 AM because of the Corporate Commission which made some girls late. We had no letters at all. We went up to the playing fields at 2 PM to play netball and returned at 3 PM. Gertrude was waiting for us. We found out that she is going to be married to a man named Starky and we congratulated her.
We went to singing from 3:30 to 4 PM. We both wore our new dresses to dancing and everyone like them. We found that there were several changes in the dancing and so we will have a lot to learn this term. We learned "The Rhythm"  which is very fascinating.

N.H.

January 24

24 Tuesday (24-342)

We have had no letters today.
Iris had her first violin lesson and got on quite successfully. Nora went for a walk with Hilda Lawrence.
We had service from 3-3;34 pm
After tea we did prep from 4:30 to 6:45 and then had supper.
After supper we washed each other's hair and then retired to bed.

N.H.

January 23

23 Monday (23-343)

Mrs. Payton sent Iris's prayer this morning and enclosed a letter in it which was very jolly. We had lessons as usual from nine 12:45 PM. Our violin came back in time for Nora's lesson at 2 PM. We received letter number 81 from Daddy. The new office is in full swing now except for the central heating. Daddy expects to arrive here on April 3 but we hope it will be sooner. Nora's first violin lesson with Mr. Bertram Louis was quite successful and if we work hard we ought to get on well at violin this term with such a famous master to teach us. Iris had a Hygiene lesson and Nora and extra French one.  We did prep from 4:30 to 6:45. After supper we were given our table places. We also played "Hear My Prayer" by request. Iris is writing to Hilda and Nora is doing prep.

N.H.

January 22

22 Sunday (22-344)
3rd after Epiphany
New Moon, 8.19 p.m.

We had an extra hour in bed this morning and we were jolly glad of it. We wrote our own letters until 10:30 AM and then went to church. Iris, Squelch and myself went for a walk along the beach as far as Alum Chine. We left at 1:45 and returned at 3 PM. We wrote our letters until teatime and after tea we did prep.
We went to church again that evening.
We had supper at 8 PM and retired to bed at 8:45

N.H.

January 21

21 Saturday (21-345)

We had a letter from Dolly this morning before we went over to painting. During painting Miss Stocks came in to tell us that Joe and Lucie and many others had passed their senior Cambridge exam. We were very thrilled to hear that they had passed but we do not know the details yet.
We went shopping this morning and bought a little present for Margaret. We went to Westbourne this afternoon to take our violin to be mended.

I.H

January 20

20 Friday (20-346)

We had a letter from Daddy today. He told us that they were moving into their new office and that Iris should soon work in a very swish office. He told us about his Christmas party also. He is getting thrilled for his departure for England and so are we.
Nora and Iris went out with Gertrude this afternoon and had a nice walk though it was drizzling hard with rain.
We played "Hear My Prayer" in the common room and everyone was so quiet that we must make a note of it. We played many of the other records too until her bedtime.

I.H.

January 19

19 Thursday (19-347)

We had no letters by the first or second post.
This morning we went to give in our names to Miss Stocks so that we could join the confirmation classes at St Michael's. Lucy and Jing went with us.
The classes we hear are to begin on Feb 8th so Miss Stocks advised us all to do a little study on our own til that day.
Nora and Iris went for a walk along the beach and came back along the cliffs.
It has been a beautiful fine afternoon and true Spring weather so far.

I.H.

January 18 "First Day back at School"

18 Wednesday (18-348)

This was the first day of school and we set to work after the first two lessons.

We had a lovely long letter from Mummy and at one o'clock our hatbox arrived from Torquay.
We unpacked our trunks in the afternoon and did the necessary packing up in the box room.
We started Silent Prep again so we could not play the gramophone but we read our books instead, having nothing else to do after supper

I.H.

January 17 "Back to Bournemouth"

17 Tuesday (17-349)

After breakfast we finished our packing.
We said goodbye to the family and also to "Suzie"
Mr Payton blessed us both.
Mrs Payton, Dorothy and Bob came to the station to see us off by the 12:12 train.
We had rather a dull journey until we reached Templecombe, where we started to play the gramophone. We played the "Yeoman of the Guard" and the "Mikado" much to the astonishment of the porters etc, who could not tell where the music was came from.
Miss Chapman came to meet us at the station. We received a letter from Billy to cheer us up.

I.H.

January 16 "Last Day of Vacation"

16 Monday (16-350)

We stayed in this morning. In the afternoon we went to see Vincent off at Torre Station.
He made us all Toc. H. Princesses as a favour.
Nora and I went shopping afterwards. We went Callard's for an ice.
We bought our railway tickets and signed a form for our luggage. We then went home.
We pulled crackers at supper tonight. There were quit an assortment of toys and caps.
Dorothy and Iris went out after supper to post some letters.
We are going to finish off our packing as far as possible. We have played the Gramophone  a good deal lately as the wireless has failed us, being rather tired we think.

I.H.

January 15

15 Sunday (15-351)
2nd after Epiphany

We went to St John's Church this morning.
We spent the afternoon writing our home letter and doing some of our packing.
We heard some very nice music on the wireless this afternoon.
We finished packing one trunk and have started the second.
Vincent kept sobbing at supper if ever we reminded him of Cecil and Jack. Too bad!!

I.H.

January 14

14 Saturday (14-352)
Last Quarter 9.14 p.m.
S.R. 8.1, S.S. 4.17

We wrote our home letters this morning to catch the Siberian mail. We have mended a few clothes to be ready for school again. George has come this morning to put up the aerial so we hope to listen into the wireless again this afternoon. We went to see a film called "A Million Bid" at the Paignton Picture House.
It was quite a good picture and we enjoyed it. We saw a funny comedy as well.
We heard two dance pieces from the Savoy on the wireless.

I.H.

January 13

13 Friday (13-353)

We stayed indoors in the morning. In the afternoon Dorothy, Nora and Iris went to Kent cavern.
We were shown through the caves in the guide showed us the bones of the prehistoric animals found imbedded in the clay.
We went to the extreme and of the cave which is said to be 700 feet from the entrance. The stalactites and stalagmites were wonderful in their formation. We were told that it took 100 years or more to form 1/8 of an inch of these stalagmites etc.
 The prehistoric implements found her to be seen at the Torquay museum where many other interesting things or to be seen.

The Organ Chamber

I.H.

January 12

12 Thursday (12-354)
If not already done, send in Accident Insurance form

We went shopping this morning. We bought some sweets and toffee to take to school on Tuesday and also a few presents for Billy and Dorothy.
We  are going with the Misses Hamerton this afternoon.
We had a very good time up at the Hamerton's. We played "Ludo", "Happy Family" and received a little prize for winning.
It poured with rain on our way home and we were nearly soaked to the skin.
Miss Hamerton gave us this snapshot which she took of us last hols.

A group on the rocks at Goodington, summer 1927

I.H.

January 11

11 Wednesday (11-355)
Hillary Law Sittings begin

We went down town this morning and did a little shopping while we waited for the chemist to make the medicine. WE bought a plate to match Mr Payton's cup and a white jug for Mrs Payton.
At two o'clock we went for a carriage drive. We went up Seaway Lane and dropped Mrs Payton and Dorothy at Doctor Catford's. It was beautifully sunny and we enjoyed our outing.

January 10

10 Tuesday (10-356)

We received a letter from Tawney this morning. Iris went shopping this morning to get Jack and Cecil a present for their train journey.
We girls were promoted by the "Westfield" committee.
After dinner we went to Torre Station to see Jack and Cecil off to Bristol.
We have not been able to listen today as the weather is so bad that the broadcasting is very indistinct.
Mr Clerk came in the evening and set it right for us. We listened for the rest of the evening. We heard an interesting lecture on "Deep Sea Life"

I.H.

January 9

9 Monday (9-357)
Plough Monday.   Christmas Fire Insurance ceases

We received a letter from Daddy this morning, and a Xmas card from the Doyles.
Iris went down to the "Electric" this morning to book tickets for "Johnny Get Your Haircut",
a Jackie Coogan film.
We went for a carriage drive this moring with Dorothy, Mr and Mrs Payton round by Babbacombe. It was a very enjoyable drive.
The show was quite good on the whole, but rather too short.
Later in the evening we listened to the wireless, to hear "The Blue Bird" It was very queer music so we turned it off.

I.H

January 8

8 Sunday (8-358)
1st after Epiphany

We all went to St John's Church and returned at 12:30 pm. We spent the afternoon writing letters.We listened in at 3:30 pm. Tea was over by 5 pm and from then til church we continued our letter writing.
We all went to the card service at Upton Church. The service was very enjoyable and the sermon especially was worth remembering. It was on "The Epiphany"
Another feature of remembrance was a large painting in a side chapel, of Jesus. The Reverend Pat McCormick broadcasted a sermon from Saint Martin in the Fields. It was remarkably clear and was the best the writer has ever heard. We "listened in" again after supper. After that the family retired to bed.

N.H.

January 7

7 Saturday (7-359)
Full moon 6.8 a.m.
S.R. 8.5. S.S. 4.7

Nora received her bank book. Did housework etc. and then we wrote letters and read. After dinner Iris, Dolly and Nora went downtown. We met Cecil on the way. We bought this diary, which cost us 2/6d, a fair sum but we think it is worth it.

Iris and Nora Hunter hereby have chosen to write their daily life and events down in this book, for the sake of the succeeding generations, who we hope will be able to gain some knowledge of ordinary life in the 20th century. This of course is for the Hunters of future days.
Yours sincerely,
Iris and Nora Hunter.

On this day "Westfield" boasts its first "Wireless set" which was made by Jack. It is three valved and we hope to have good results.

N.H.

January 6

6 Friday (6-360)
Epiphany

We all arrive down comparatively early. Some of us went by taxi to St. John's. After the service we did some shopping. We went to Paish's and bought another "Yeoman of the Guard" and also "Yale Blues" and "Moonlit Waters", foxtrot. Afternoon we all laid in the dining room. Iris read, Cecil typed letters and found time to make faces at us. Dolly read, Nora attempted doing Latin. Did 15 lines in the end. We had a late supper. After supper Cecil, Dolly and Nora went to the GPO in Union Street. We returned along the sea front and had a very pleasant walk. Had Christmas card from Jessie.

N.H.