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-1909-

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 -1909-
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Friday, 1st January.
To the Oxton audit about 130th my firm has held and may be the last as
Mrs. S. wants the agency for her brother. Savl Capt. Sherbrooke and had taa at
R. Francklins and v/alked home. Day warm and all snow gone so at 9 Polly and I
drove to the dance at the Coppice Asylum. It is Dr. Tate's Jubilee there
and the 40th Annual Ball. After 10 the patients go and at 11 we to supper
and presented a salver and jewelled pendant to our host and hostess at whose
balls 3 generations have danced~
(Mrs. Tate died October this year. I remember Mother dressing for the
1st Ball).
A large party of Birkins, Mrs. Charlie B. a pretty American looking
charming in a sheath gown which does become her but few others. Pretty Elsie W.
as pretty as any in white. the Bromleys, Heymans, Kentish Wrights, etc. etc.
We left at 12.30 but the dance will go on till 3. Such a mer~y supper all
sitting down together about 80 or 90 of us. Mrs. Mair, the daughter there,
with whom we recalled Skegness memories. My earliest recollection of this
ball is my mother dressing for {t in 1869 in the Manor where we then lived.
Sun., 3rd Jan.
The Railway Amalgamations having spoilt my trains to Lincolnshire
I have to leave by evening train at 8.30 and put up at the G.N. Hotel at Lincoln.
A pleasant man who had spent 25 years in Florida in the Smoke Room. Did not
gather his name but his grandfather had been Dean of Westminster, and his
father Clerk to the Chapter.

Mon. ,4th Jan.

Left at 8.30 for Market Rasen and drove thence to Kelstern Grange
to meet Burkinshal;1 and a \'lalk after to Mr. Oddings and the village. Het all
these wealthy tenants for the audit after and home late. Polly gone to Miss
Fox's dance.
Tues.,5th Jan.
To Newark for the Ossington audit.
Heds. ,6th Jan.
Rode to Winkburn to see Colonel Burnell and back by moonlight. Ernest
drove to Ossington.
Thurs. ,7th Jan.
Rode to Arnold and then to lunch with Sir Charles Seely. Mrs. Frank
Seely and family there and also Mrs. Hollins and her boy. Home at 4 and to the
old women at the Lower House. Kathleen Warwick and her husband Capt. Jones of
the Artillery calling on Polly. Had not seen her since her wedding. A merry
tea in the Laundry. This is about the 26th annual tea given by the R's and as
it is likely to be the last it is rather pathetic. Talking to the old men over
our pipes in the saddleroom after some over 80 recalled the local races for horses
and ponies in the Bull Field about 70 years ago at the Feast. Sarn Willie's grandfather
had a good blood pony. More care in breeding then. A derby foal,Philadapenta, was
foaled at Epperstone. Horses important because no railways, bicycles and few
metalled roads. My great grandfather and the Barnards metalled the lanes hereabouts,
formerly only tracks along 60 ft. wide grass banks.
 :2-.
Fri., 8th Jan.
To the meet at Syerston and arrived as they left to draw. Did not find till
we got to near Devon Gorse and then over the.low grounds by Cottam to Hawton
pretty fast, then lost. Lady Cole out, I had not seen some time. Had then it
being late to canter up the Foss to Rice Lodge where Knight took my horse and
with Polly drove. the grey pony into Newark to our officers meeting which being
a long one I sent Polly off early to pick me up at Bleasby station at 6.30.
A dark very stormy night.
Sat.,9th Jan.
G-tM1/t,cstfL.s~j",,.I;b eppe Bridge meeting at Nottingham of which I am chairman. \Ye have
now li years dividend in reserve. Making up my accounts and find we have between
£9,000 and £10,000 capital bringing in £450 yearly, besides our furniture and
really valuable pbtures, silver and jewellry. Our Trust Income for Mother now is
£60 to £70 yearly and with my business income have saved about £400 this past year.
Sun. ,10th Jan..... At home.

Hon. ,11th Jan.

At 10 by train to Widmerpool and after walking about with Neep the new
bailiff and over the estate a~ 4 I went to the Hall for tea and chat with Hajor
Robertson.
Tues.,12th Jan.
Rode 10 miles to the meet at Stragglethorpe, a large field. Found before
I reached them and by Cropwell Butler to Tys~by, and lost. A long draw by
Wiverton, Colston Bassett, Cotgrave and Blackberry Hill where a find and a fair
run to Sropwell Hoe Hill. Then home.
\'leds. ,13th Jan.
~o Toton and met Mr. Wilson by appointment at Nottingham. Toton a property
of Sir Thomas Birkins I look after. Wilson has an 1800 acre property also I manage.
Thurs.,14th Jan.
To lunch at Sherwood Lodge with Sir Charles Seely. He not very well.
Fri. ,15th Jan.
Sent Kingral on with my horse to Rolleston and drove there later and
then rode on to the meet at Newark Market Place after the Ball last night.
The Mayor gave us breakfast and the Master made a speech. The place gay with
hounds, horsemen, motors and people. Harold and Nell with the Branstons of the
Friary with whom they stayed last night. The erratic widows of Epperstone also
there. Drew Balder\ton, my horse refused at a drain and lost me the run. A long
16 miles ride home.
Mon.,18th Jan.
Rode to Syke Breck to see poor Mrs. \'l'hite, a small farmer whose husband
aged 43 just died by an accident in the pit. A companion of \Vhites said he
nearly turned back home on arriving at the pit; on a sort of presentiment he
should go home, but he resisted the feeling. He was to have left the pit and
taken to farming in March.
Tues.,19th Jan.
3.
To the meet of the Rufford at Southwell. A large field and a good
run from Halloughton Wood. Renewed acquaintance with young Lord Titchfield and
Lady Victoria Bentinck. Charlie and Pat out and 3 Warwicks of my relatives.
\'1eds. ,20th Jan.
A beautiful fine morning and having some property to report on
at Woodbro stolled across the fields there and with young Pollard to see it.
After to see the church and sundry mementos of old friends there, and by the
fields of the Netherhall where I spent many pleasant hours in Roby Thorpe's day.
Here in the church Mansfield Parkyns of Abyssinian fame, an old friend of mine
and my grandfather's and father's, designed much carved \;'Ood\>lork, very handsome,
to the memory of his ,;rife Ld. Westbury's daughter, a pretty woman. Their eight
daughters all married away and the old hall sold. Memorial to the Bainbriggs.
Old Madam Bainbrigg who died over 100 years ago, a co-heiress of Squire Laycock,
was the last to keep up dining in Hall with the servants, so I heard old ijarmaid
say. Old Thomas Burnard died in '70 alt 90 years, .so his memory went back a
long way and he used to call to mind when General Pich,tgue was campaigning in
Holland and had heard tales of the '45. Always wished he had lived 100 years
earlier as he hated 19th century "progress". \'1oodboro a pretty village and snug
in the hollow all facing the sun, a great village for gardening and orchards and
for the above reason one of the warmest places hereabouts.
Thurs.,2lst Jan.
Called on Lewis at Hoveringham who had hurt his knee at Hoveringham.
Won 3s.9d. at Bridge with he and Mrs Lewis and Usbonne.
Fri., 22nd Jan.
To the Board at Southwell and then lunch with Elsie War\;,ick where
Polly, Harold and Nell. Rode home leaving them to drive. In the evening Miss
Rutherford from the Manor came to dinner. Emily gave us an excellent one that
called from Harold admiration. Harold and Nell have been staying on and off here.
He was telling us of his stormy voyage to Halifax, N.S., and I recalled my visit to him
on his first voyage leaving Plymouth Sound when Clarry Boyle and I sailed a
"cockleshell" from Causand and we \;,ere so well done to that on leaving in a high
sea we had some ado to get our mast up to sail back. I was staying ,;rith the Boyles
then (1907) in their rambling house directly over the sea at Kingsand. A place
where from 1886 to 1891 we had annually a gay time in August with dances and
boating and sailing picnics: up th~ealm, the Tavy, the Tamar, St. Germans River
and even to Looe with sailing boatAaac rowing boats with hampers aboard we explored,
a party of 15 or 16 of all ages from 12 to 28, all the inlets within a day's sailor
rowing. One party the Boyles, Cayleys, Yorkshire cousins of the Boyles, Thackwells
and Kitcats from Gloucestershire and the never ceasing talking Constance Dawson.
Sat., 23rd Jan.
Sat on 2 Income Tax appeals by breweries and gave decision against
the Revenue. Lunch at the Club.
Mon., 25th Jan.
·To Newark by train and on to Carlton, cycled to Ossington, had a walk
with the Squire and cycled home. A hard frost and roads in fine condition for
d?rcling.
 l-'1 0 '1 -
Tues.,26th Jan.
Cycled to Screveton and called at the Vicarage to enquire about Hump~,
and coming back called at Car Colston Vicarage to see Mrs. Robinson. Thea B~ley
as was. The Vicar showed me his comfortable house and garden. His wife brings
him £600 in esse and perhaps more in posse whereas his living only grossed £200
and net about £70 so now he is happy and comfortable. Very sunny: but dense fog
in the Trent Valley and could hardly get on.
Wedn.,27th Jan.
Called on Capt. S. at Oxton. The hoar frost magnificent.
Thurs.,28th Jan. ~
To ~eR~ith Sir Charles Seely at the keepers lodge at Salterford
\""here a shooting party. Frank, Joseph \1hittaker and his son, Dr. l1arshall
and? • The hoar frost on the trees magnificent: returning saw Mrs.
Harry'Sherbrooke, Mrs. Richard Francklin and the Laycocks skating on Salterford
Dam. Walked in the Park Wood to admire the scene of the hoar frost as dense
as foliage.
Fri., 29th Jan.
Thaw commences. Drove with Polly to callat Hexgreave.
Sat., 30th Jan.
Wrote Charlie on our private affairs: that if my business failed my moral
obligation to secure Mother's income devolved on the family.
Mon., 1st Feb.
Thaw set in but cycled to Arnold.
\-leds. ,3rd Feb.
Oppressively warm and to the meet at Halloughton, found foxes but no scent.
Mrs. Paget riding astride, a Bavarian Count L. also out, lodging at Burnett's at
\100dboro.
Thurs., 4th rtb.
A great function at Nottingham Theatre for Capt. Jeffcock's amateur company
in "The Second in Command", topical of the late \'1ar and as all the men were soldiers
very realistic. Our party also Charlie, Annie, Ernest and Elsie Warwick. The Duke
and Duchess of Portland and Lady Victoria in the box opposite. Miss HoskYns the
Bishop's daughter just behind us. Tea after.
Fri., 5th Feb.
To Southwell Board. Lunched with Elsie and then rode on to Maplebeck,
returning met Miss Burnell walking and turned in to Winkburn to talk to the
Colonel and home across the fields in bright moonlight.
Sat., 6th Feb.
Margie, Polly, Miss Bond and I to the pantomime matinee, where joined by
Major Robertson at Margie's, his goddaughter's, invitation: also Geoff, Tommy
and nurse, Muriel and Mr. and Mrs. Robinson, and tea after at Crowshaws.
Very merry.
 ,/'
0,
Sun.,3lst Jan. Spent at home.
Monday, 1st Feb.
Cycled to Calverton and to Red Hill. Red Hill formerly a fine old
posting house late 17th century brick work still intact. The upper (2nd) floor
formerly the dormitories for guides for travellers crossing the Forest to
Mansfield. Frosty.

Tues.,9th Feb.
Very frosty. To Sherwood Lodge and motoring with Sir Charles by Syke
Breck. Home and to bed early in the spare room leaving Polly and Margie.

Feb., 10th,11th,12th.
In bed with sore throat. Margie also swollen face.
Sat. ,13th Feb.
Got up to go to Nottingham to see Sir T. Birkin and home early.
Sun. ,14th Feb.
In all day.
Tues. ,16th Feb.
A long 30 mile ride to Ossington and home dead tired and to bed early.
Weds. ,17th Feb.
Quite better and to the meet at Fiskerton.~Oharlie and Annie out, the
merry widows, Capt. Hobbs and an Oxton contingent. Did not find till evening
at Oxton Bogs and a slow run.
Thurs. ,18th Feb.
To Widmerpool. Saw the farm bought by the County Council under the
Smallholdings Act. The present tenant turned out for an American thereby.
Farmers very angry. Tea.with Major Robertson.
Fri.,19th Feb.
To the Board at Southwell, cycling. Called on Capt. Sherbrooke going.
Lunched ",lith Philip Harwick and tea with Mrs. Francklin. Polly and Hargie
left for Llandudno.
Sat. ,20th Feb.
Drove round by Sher\'lood Lodge: then to Nottingham and called later
on old Mr. Tucker at Old Lenton and Mr. Fowler at Basford Park who has been
very ill.
Sun., ~ Feb. !Lt ~
Dined with the Richardsons at the Lower House. Doleful at their leaving
after 20 years and such jolly times ",le have had there especially in the "nineties"
when we were all young and pretty Mrs. R. the centre of the ring: theatre parties
and suppers and open house.

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Mon.,22nd Feb. Lunch at She~100d Lodge.
Thurs.,25th Feb.
To Toton and met A1ec Birkin at his farm and walking over the property.
At 7.30 drove in my brougham to Thurgarton Priory for dinner. Mrs. Upton and
her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Upton who keep house with her,
Capt. Hobbs and Farnham. Meeting at the schools for recruits for the
Territorials but a poor response. Freezing still as all this week.
Hon., 1st Mar.
Drove round by Hexgreave and then to the Palace at Southwe11 where I
found Mrs. Fawcett, widow of G1adstone's blind Postmaster Genera1,speaking on
Women's Suffrage to a fashionable crowd.
Tues. ,2nd Mar. \'lalked to Ruddington.
Weds. ,3rd Mar. Snow at night and all day for 24 hours.
Thurs.4th Mar.
Frosty. 240 but bright sunshine and walked in the snow a good deal
admiring the country, which as my father used to say looks larger in snow.
Fri., 5th Har.
As it was hard frost drove ~ 9.30 to Mackenhurst and then walked in to
Southwe11. Kirk1and, clerk of our Council, died suddenly on Wednesday. By
train to Nottingham and on to Basford Park to enquire of Fowler who is better.
Sir C. See1y picked me up in his motor and left me at the tram lines.
Sat.,6th Mar.
Po11y and Margie come back from L1andudno looking much better. Heavy
snow all day and almost a blizzard as we drove up from the station in the
brougham.
\'leds.10th Mar.
Rode to Ossington, not much snow beyond Southwe11. Walking a good deal
with Mr. Denison.
Fri. ,11th Mar.
Although much snow westward it was all right for hunting south of the
Trent: although the Be1voir hills looked like Alps covered with snow. We
met at Car Cols ton and found at Portland Oaks a very fast run up to Syerston
back to Sibthorpe and north by Herrods Holt over the Elston dyke which some
jumped to Devon Gorse to Cottam thorns and nearly to Long Bunnington where
we lost. Came home with Capt. Jeffcock and Robinson, Vicar of Car Co1ston,
with whom I went to tea.
Sat. ,13th Mar.
In the evening to Calverton to the Reading Room getting my soldiers to
sign on.
Mon. ,14th Mar.
Rode up to Sherwood Lodge for lunch. Sir Charles not very well.
Hylton See1y there also and rode back by B1idworth Bottoms: there is much
snow on the forests and I had to get through some deep drifts.

Tuesd.,15th Mar.
Drove to Winkburn in the afternoon. A slight fall of snow whitened the
landscape which was lovely.

Thurs. 18th Mar.

To Washing1ey near Peterboro by train. It was too wintry yesterday to hunt.
Today it is going. Had a long walk by the farms and called in at Bucks Lodge
and Ca1decot. Near here is a moat of an old manor house: also at Folksworth and
at Oggarston Manor Farm in the hollow which at one time was the centre of some
honour in Saxon or Rorman times.
Fr i. ,19th Mar.
14 mile ride to Farndon along the Trent Banks with lovely views: part of
the way with our 2 merry widows. Went into breakfast at Brocktons where a large
company. Did not find till late and no scent. At Syerston a little country
girl in old dull red frock and print pinafore looked like one of Mor1and's
prints. If only the children v/ou1d dress like this. Left hounds at Bridgford
after dra\.,ring the Trent Hills. Mrs. Elliott out from E1warton. Count G." Arco
at \voodbro made his acquaintance on \'1ednesday: a Bavarian, '/ a spy.
Sat., 20th Har.
Walked up at 5. Spring weather. My last Saturday home to my dear cottage.
~ years of quiet prosperity and happiness. I hope our return to the old House
will bring the same. It is 1~ years since my grandmother left it after 50 years
residence, except for the last 10 years (~7-87) with great propsperity.

Mar., 21st. Sun.

Last Sunday in our cottage spent at home.

Mon. ,22nd Har.

Our00ak bed went across so slept in my dressingroom. To Southwell to
bUy shnubs.
Tues. ,23rd Mar.
Rode by Co1wick and Trent Bridge to Ruddington to meet hounds. Did not
find till we got into the wild woldsand left them running to Rowhoe Wood
at Widmerpoo1. Returned through Owthorpe. Nothing left of Colonel Hutchinson's
house except a canal in the garden and an overgro\Yn yew tree wa1~, and so by
bridle road to Cropwe11.
\Veds. ,24th Mar.
Drove to Hexgreave to see Wilson who will want his son to be agent before long.
Then to catch the train at Southwe11 for Newark and lunched \.,rith Char1ie and back
by Nottingham.
 ?) I.

Thurs. ,25th Har.

Moving our furniture all day to the Lower House and by night slept there.
The morning room, diningroom, hall and S. bedroom furnished. In fact quite
comfortable.
Fri., 26th Mar. G~~~
Rode over Gl'imthulpe Bridge by Shelford and by the beautiful bridle '·lay
to Ratcliffe to meet hounds. Found at Colston Bassett: I was thro~m out'but got
in again at Kinoulton. Hounds crossed the canal near Hickling. Fortunately I
alone crossed at Hickling village and turned for the Gorse and sent hounds
racing back for Kinoulton Wood. Here the field came up, the hunted fox coming back
close by me. The hounds went on with a fresh one so lost the rest of the run to
Cropwell whence I returned home.
Sat., 27th Mar.
Home at 5, all my horses brought down to the stables so am now well
housed in our old home. 2 maids in the house and 2 men outside with Tom Willies
as auxilliary in the stables and. Mrs. Barker as laundry maid., Mrs. Knight
when we have company. Busy hanging pictures and as they are good look well,
The long passage is 17th century furniture and portraits, the hall 18th century
bnd the diningroom 19th century except some portraits. The drawingroom will
look well with the Salvator Rosa landscape.
Sun., 28th Har.
At home. To Church.
Hon., 29th Mar.
Went to Calverton to see Frank Seely about a question to be asked in the
House of Commons about lack of land for applicants for smallholdings. As the whole
place is smallholdings we have a good answer. Hotored into Nottingham to see Copnall
our Clerk to the County Council, who pleased with my statement. Saw copy of letter
sent to Ld. Carrington ostensibly by Meads the ploughman, very eloquent and full
of the stock socialistic phrases. I suspect the work of the poisonous reptile the.
Baptist parson, Frost. To Shen~ood Lodge for lunch but Sir Charles in bed.
I guess the Ministers do not guess they are really heckling their colleague
Jack Seely.
Tues., 30th Mar.
Walked to the point to point races at Woodbro, a very large company.
The ladies race won by Adeline Elnor, a girl of 14 riding astride in scarlet
habit and coat, very picturesque. Hunting after.
v/eds. ,31st Har.
To Carters funeral, Sir Charles' secretary who was killed by a bicycle
fall last Saturday, leaving widow and 5 children, poor things. Service in the
Chapel and from the cemetery walked to the train with Major Leach and lunched
at the Club.
Thurs.,lst Apr. 1111. OA\.I/.Q..(-;{
V
To the meet of the Rufford at Wellow, out Ld. Man,ers, Lady Cicely Pierrepoint,
Sir Hugo Fitzherbert, the Broadhursts, Hiss Cator, Miss Smith, Mrs. Markham, Mrs.
Lombe, Col. Foljambe, Capt. Hobbs, et~ Found at once and a good run over Laxton
fields now, I am sorry to say, getting partly enclosed. Left at Norwell Woodhouse.
 9,
Fri., 2nd Apr.
To the Southwell Board, cycling and then across the Trent at Fiskerton to
Syerston for tea.

Sat., 3rd Apr.

Sitting as Inc.Tax Commissioner at Nottingham with Francklin and Fellows,
Bettling well into our old house.

Mon. ,5th Apr.

Rode to Syke Breck and to lunch at She~lood Lodge. Sir Charles down again.

\-leds.,7th Apr.
To Ruddington hunting but so fine and dry it was only a ride. Home by Trent
Bridge, the last day this season for me.

Thurs.,8th Apr.
By train to Toton as to restoring an old house and back at 2 and drove
on to Winkburn. Edward came from London, suys Dick is doing well writing for
the Tatler.
Good Fri.,9th Apr.
To Church and read Lesson for the Rector. Beautifully fine and working
in garden.

Sat. ,lOth Apr.

Intended to hunt but on getting to Oxton found meet too far at \Vhitewater
near Thoresby, so home and mowed all our grass, very hot and thirsty.
Sun.,llth Apr.
Read Lessons at Church. Charlie, Harold, Nell and Patrick to lunch. Much
pleased at the house. Harold posted to the Africa, battleship now off Scotland.
Harry Sherbrooke is on the same ship.
Mon.,12th Apr.
To Oxton and Calverton and back just in time for the Vestry Meeting in the
church. The Rector nominating Sir Francis Ley and ourselves Burrows as Wardens.
Tues. ,13th Apr.
My 47th birthday and woke in the same bed, the great carved oak one, and in
the same room, our great South bedroom, in which I was born. At 12 mounted and
rode to Rufford. The "merry ...l ido,.. s" had started at 9, lost their ''lay and I met
them returning. Overtook Gibbs and Mavis, riding astride, and at Primrose Farm
turned across where the old hop yards used to be, into Rufford Park and across
to the ground for the races, a large company mostly in motors, very few on
horses and poor entries. Burnett of Woodbro broke his collar bone and Sir
Hugo Fitzherbert got in the water jump. Foljambes, etc. all there. Rain began
to fall heavily and after galloped to Eatering Rectory for tea with Canon
Lumley Cator. The disappearance of the riding spectator at these Hunt meetings
during past 10 years most marked.
 10 I

Thurs.,15th Apr.
Rode early to Syerston for the audit and lunched with Mrs. Fillingham:
a lovely day and fine views of Newark and country from this pretty property.
Fri.,16th Apr.
To South...l ell Board and dinneF at,the Crown after.

Sat. ,17th Apr. . 'gahfa..cl.

In uniform to Kimberley and then to Baa/ord Hall thence to Kimberley
for the opening of the new drill hall converted out of the old colliery shops
at the Knowle. Bertie Fowler and Clark in command of some 80 men. Our new
Brigadier Murray and his Brigade Major Mann arrived aftefi1ards. Sir Herbert
Cherinside to open the Hall with Frank Seely, our Colonel Foljambe, Mellish, etc.
Back to Basford Park for tea and chat with Mr. Fowler.

Mon. ,19th Apr.

Bicycled to Ossington and to lunch at the Hall, where staying the
Ladies Amherst, Capt. Amherst and his children: after to Sutton village
about repairs to Rose's cottage and called on Jaques, Carlton's new Vicar,
for tea and after called on Col. and Mrs. Skeffington Craig, where her sister
the Countess de la Rochetti, and home by the North Road, Kelham. The weather
perfect.
\~ed5. ,21st Apr.

~ide by Syke Breck and Calverton and drove to the theatre with Polly
at night for liThe Englishman's Home", a caricature of the volunteers by an
Army officer. If it were worth while to take offence (but it was very amusing)
a sharp retort could be made. fhe old Volunteers were the most businesslike
military body in the country on slender means and could have perfected their
organisation but for its bitter enemy the War Office. This new scheme will
only evolve a boy militia providing posts for ex-army men and lacks all the
volition of the old force that was capable of evolving a real army in a month,
except the Artillery and Divisional organisation, which was not its fault but
our ever incompetent War Office. I hope we may head off from cramping militaryism.
A nation trained to arms, as should be, is a different thing to a dragooned
and regimented people merely. If the play is not taken as a caricature it
would be offensive.
Thurs. ,22nd Apr.
To Toton and back to the Club. Rolling and mowing in the garden.
Fr., 23rd Apr.
Drove to our officers meeting at Newark Town Hall and the dinner.
Brigadier Murray present, sat next Mann who was in Roger Boyle's regiment
and knew several of our party in the merry Causand days, 20 years ago in
the Cornish area.
Hon., 26th Apr.
To Shefi~ood Lodge for lunch with Sir Charles. Frank and his family party
there. Parish Council at the Schools at 8.
Tuesd. ,27th Apr.
ll,
To Widmerpool and at 2 to the Hall for lunch, where a fine spread for me
but the County Council had kept the Major in Nottingham, so afterwards walked
over to Willoughby to see the Church recently restored, where I hadnot been for
22 years when I drove over with Mrs. Robertson. A fine 17th century brick manor
house, now cottages will not last long. Back to the Hall for tea where the
Major returned.

\'1eds. ,28th Apr. To Toton.

Fri., 30th Apr.

Having been in office 2 days at 5 sent Knight and the car with my luggage
on to the Hop~P~le at Ollerton and rode after on my hack to stay the night there.
We have a regim~ntal staff ride. Dinner at 7.30 when Brigadier Murray, Brigade
Major Mann, Colonels Foljambe, and Mellish, Charlie, Becher, Hobbs, Kentish
Wright, Clarke, \'1ordsworth, Hodgkinson of Newark and Savil. A merry party.
The village gay with the fair.
Sat., 1st Hay. ~ It
Busy about Ow-f1cM{('~nd Kneesall all day working our problem. At 5 to
tea at Cockglade and rOde~ome in the evening. Bill £1. 4s. Od.
Sun. ,2nd Hay.
To Gonalston to tea. Sir M. Bromley and his brother Commander Arthur B.
also there.
Mon. ,3rd May.
Drove to Nottingham with Polly to buy mats, etc. Called on the Manns
and Muriel for tea.
Tues. ,4th May.
To Hinckley with Ernest for the audit. Walked on to Wyken. Lovely
weather now.
\-leds. ,5th May.
To Toton and at 2 returned with the Manna for tea and to look at
Woodbro Nether Hall which the Manns would like. Walked back the lovely field
way through the Manor Park and home where the Lewis's also called.
Thurs. ,6th Hay.
Riding by ~lodbro and Calverton.
Fri., 7th May. At home.
Sat., 8th May. To Nottingham to the Club and home at 5.
Sun., 9th May.
Rose late at 9 and in the evening to Church where Sir Francis and Lady
Ley home from Ireland.
Mon. ,10th May.

Bicycled to Arnold in the morning and in the afternoon, being perfect

spring weather, walked ...l ith Polly and Margie to call on the Pearsons at the
Hut near Lowdham. Pearson and his youngest daughter in. The house is a freak
but has fine views with the old church in the vale below. It is all one large
hall and no other sitting room except a lounge landing upstairs. Pearson
has very large nursery grounds for raising fruit trees.
Ileds., 12th May.
To Toton and Long Eaton.
Thurs.,13th May.
Drove with Ernest to Langar Hall. Harold Bayley \"rishing to buy his brothers
and sisters interests out. Morris met me and we wall{ed over the land and back
for lunch. Hy little mare lamed.
Fri. ,14th May.
Cycled with P. to Southwell where I left her and on to Ossington for lunch
with the Squire. Returned by Norwell and Bathley to Newark and home by train
with Edge of Stretley and his son.
~leds. ,19th May.
By train to Toton, back to Nottingham and out by 2 for Polly's first
small party. 11rs. Gordon Ley, the Squire of Gonalston and Mrs. Francklin,
the Kelhams of Bleasby, Barrows of South\"rell, Hrs. Acton, the Thurgarton
Priory party. Our cousin Katie Spencer staying with us. The old house looked
well with its old portraits and paintings, pIS portrait, the Sir Joshua of
W. Champneys and my great grandfather's in the diningroom. The Salvator Rosa
is in the drawingroom with the Anstey Water Colours and miniatures. Mrs. Francklin
said looked palatial and with its old gilt consols, simple chintzs, polished
floor and ~ld turkey rugs looks well.
Thurs. ,20th Hay.
Cycled to Farnsfield for a sale of land but did not buy.
Fri., 21st Hay.
Col. Foljambe stayed the night for a drill at Grimesmoor and dinner at 9.
Very pleased at my house.
Sat., 22nd May.
Foljambe's carriage came for him and to Nottingham by the 12 train.
Back early to see recruits on range.
Sun., 23rd May.
To Church in the evening. In the afternoon the Rector had his Empire Day
celebration in the Rectory·Garden. All the children in procession round the flag.
He and I addressed them. Lady Ley and Mrs. Gordon Ley, Katie Spencer, Polly and
Hargie and Vi Brett, also the "merry wido\"rs" at the Rock with a pretty little girl
introduced as limy cousin Lady Louisa mumble-mumble " No one has yet been able to
catch the name. Probably on the level of Mrs. England's father's peerage.
Non., 24th May.
To Toton and back to the Club for lunch. Ere\.,rash at Toton above L.Eaton
Beck fairly clear. Lunched at the Club and then on to Southwe11 where I called
on E1sie~ Then to shoot with the Morris Tubs, the new practice grouped well
within" the 2 inches and got out with 48 out of 60 possible. All through but one
and training going through with great spirit.
Tues. ,25th Nay.
After a long spell of perfect spring fine weather it broke and rained
all day and thus has saved the summer. A noted feature has been the exceptionally
heavy blossom on the elms, heavy as foliage which now ripening gives certain
autumn tones in the landscape. By train with Po11y to Newark and thence to
Car1ton on Trent for lunch with the Skeffington Craigs: present Countess de la
Rochetti, Canon Jaques and his son. Mrs. S-C was a NissVere, a very old family,
and Burke used to consider that the Earldom of Oxford was dormant in her father
who was descended from a younger son of one of the early earls. To Southwell
for drill.
Beds. ,26th Hay.
Driving round by Syke Breck and Lime Lane.
Thurs. ,27th May.
To Crow Park by first train and back at 2. Drove to Ca1verton Wate~...orks
to meet engineer and then to Southwe11 for drill. Got a cold.
Fri., 28th Hay.
Found I had "f1ue" again and in bed all day till evening.
Sat., 29th Hay.
Got up at 11. To Nottingham to see Sir T. Birkin: then walked up to the
Castle to see the pictures and out by 2. Fired on the range and grouped on
target within 8 inches.
Sun., 30th Hay.
Fine but stayed in bed till late.
\fui t Honday, 31st May.
A beautiful day and this country as pretty as need be. Curious I should
be possessed of so pretty a place with its grass parklike fields and trout stream,
after living in small house so long. To-day being the annual dinner of the
Sick Club and I believe its 80th anniversary, has always been a fete day in _
Epperstone and Margie was much excited in expectation.
In the morning the Calverton Band arrives as is ancient custom, greeted
by all the children and the members form a procession to Church. Afterwards a
dinner at the Cross Keys to which the Rector, Burrows and myself were invited.
Jonathan Hurt and Arthur Parr the builder are masters of ceremonies, both well
to do men. At 4 o'clock all with the Band and all the village with their friends
visit all the large gardens and dance on the 1avnls stnrting with my house and
many old friends come to congratulate us on our return. One was cook to my
grand/ffiother here over 40 years ago and then in 1878 to my mother at the Manor.
 ccr 01_
So Margie would have me go round and then to the Manor Garden, then the Rectory,
and then Mrs. Dufty's just as it was as long as ever I can remember, when~
was a great day with us as children. At Mrs. Dufty's were a }~. and Mrs. Daniel
+J)~h.:(.e....r ,very pleasant people, he I remembered as a boy here 30 years ago.
At sunset all dispersed and Margie to bed tired out. The beauty of the day and
gay scenes in pretty gardens a pleasant memory.

Tues. ,1st June. RI 'II~ "

\'leather changed and rained. To Toton and \'lalked the Ere\'lash R:ire s: ?
•
Thurs. and Fri.
I stayed at Norman Cross for the Washingly Rent Audits. '~~e evening
arrived a motor, 2 ladies and 3 children, wanted to get on S. but baby crying
so got beds and put up.
Sat.,5th June.
Sat as Income Tax Commissioner to hear appeals and home early for shooting
on the range. Hade 8 and 12 out of possible 40.
Hon. ,7th June.
Again to Toton and see the restoration of the House.
Tues.8th June.
A letter came last Saturday from Capt. Sherbrooke to give up his agency
to Richard F. Seeing how closely R. is connected with him it is not unexpected
but breaks a long tradition as we had been agents since this branch of the
Sherbrookes (Lowe) came into the property, now 3 generations. To Hexgreave
to see Wilson. His boy is going to be a land agent, in fact younger sons take
up this instead of the Church as formerly, and;.so a very good profession
will become beggarly because unless you have many moderate agencies the pay
is small and you cannot ac'!fimpartially bet\'leen landlord and tenant. In fact the
arrival of the Gentlemans Land Agent synchronises with radical reform in land.
\veds. ,9th June.
To Newark and lunched with Charlie, then to Balderton and back for tea
at Farndon, now looking very pretty place. Charlie has planted very many trees
about the village.
Thurs.,lOth June.
Shooting again on the Range.
Fri., 11th June.
To Farnsfield for the Hexgreave audit. The last 10 days very cold and
dull. !Q Calverton to see Frank Seely.
Sat., 12th June.
Saw Mrs. Fowler in Nottingham Harket Place. A meeting about the Budget
in my office. Home at 2 and to the Range to superintend shooting. Did badly myself.
William writes at Seville. The D. and Duchess of Portland much at the Consulate
and spoke very nicely of me to Keyser. I suppose about the letters of his
predecessor brought up in the Druce case.
 J;;.
Sun. 13th June.
The heavy fall of honey dew has given all the leaves a burnish as if polishe~
I was walking round the Rectory Garden after evening service and noticed it.
Hon.,14th June.
Cold cheerless weather for June. We have fires most evenings in the hall.
Drilling at Grimesmoor in the evening.
Tues,;,15th June.
By train to Ruddington for the audit and walked over much of the estate and to
drill at Grimesmoor in the evening. Most people very angry with the Budget.
vleds. ,16th June.
Had dinner at the George Hotel for the Widmerpool tenants. I went to Toton
in the morning. Drill at Grimesmoor.
Thurs.,17th June.
Lucy and Edith Champneys, my sisters-in-law, here for a week. Very pleased
at the house.

Fri., 18th JUne.

Polly gave her party to the Farmers' and cottagers' wives to meet Lucy and Edith.
Charlie and Annie motored over and Charlie very amusing cracking jokes with
Hrs. O~CT'YL pNearly all the older people remember my grandfather and grandmother's
days here and many congratnmations to us on coming back. They are delighted in going
over the house and really our pictures, china and furniture are very good. The
drawingroom rather French in style. To Calverton in the evening for the audit dinner.
Sat.,19th June.
Coming back fDom~Nottingham in the evening Polly called me into the pantry
and sho\'led me a find in the old blue service. It \vas a large dish marked IlDublin"
and gives a large view of the city about middle of 18th century: shows the old
castle and \valls. I quickly conveyed it to the drawingroom. Old Hrs. Middleton
gave it to my grandmother. (Old Mrs. H. \.,ras at Nottingham Castle \'Then burnt by
the mob). She and her husband, a retired stockinger, lived opposite. I just
remember the fine old woman.
Hon., 21st June.
To the \Vinkburn Audit, still dull, cold and rainy. Saw Colonel Burnell
who looks feeble, laid up with gout.
Tues.,22nd June.
wood.
To Sher'eFoolm Lodge for lunch.
\-leds. ,23rd June.
ToToton and then to lunch at the Club and then Hospital meeting at the
Exchange as to whether women should be on the Board. Edge of Strelley in the
Chair, supported by Sir Charles Seely and Sir F. Ley, etc. We beat the suffragists
at which I crowed over Lucy and Edith.
 -J;;;$-. / h . [·er O?'
Sat.,26th June. G-~1k~
A meeting of the G~i~ther~e Bridge directors at Beaumonts. At 2 home to
the shooting on range. Folly had a small tennis party for her cousin Theo
Spencer who came last night and Charles Richard,Farnham and Ernest stayed to dinner.
Sun. ,27th June.
Spencer left for London in the evening and I to Gonalston after.
Hon. ,28th June.
To lUnch at Sherwood Lodge. Rain and cold. My sister-in-law Nell came
to stay.
Tues. ,29th June.
To Southwell Cathedral for the commemoration of its BOOth anniversary of
rebuilding the Norman Cathedral. Folly and I drove in the brougham. Knight
extra smart in whites and tops, etc. We failed to get in the south triforium
but got round by the north porch and up to the north triforium where we could
see well. A great show of bishops, ours in the Southwell cope and the Archbishop
of York had his train borne by two acolytes in scarlet. Had tea at Canon Glaistors.
Weds.,30th June.
A long day at Widmerpool and cycled by Ke~~orth, Wysall where I rested in
the church, Wyneswold, Willoughby, to tea at Widmerpool Hall with Major Robertson.
A sunny afternoon.

Thurs.,lst July
To Sherwood for lunch and to Southwell for drill in the evening.
Fri. ,2nd July.
Summer weather at last and to the Oxton audit, perhaps the last as Capt.
Sherbrooke wants Richard Francklin to act, probably to save a little money
as the Capt. gets hard up. (No. I kept on. 1919)

Sat.,3rd July.

A large party to church, Folly, Hargie, Ernest, Nell, my sister-in-la\~,

and Miss Percy who came to see the house as 25 years ago she used to stay there
with my grandmother and was quite affecting in her congratulations on our return.
I had to leave at 8 in the evening for Lincoln en route for Kelstern and put up
at the G.N. hotel. Walked round the cathedral by moonlight.
Hon. , 5th ~ d tA1'1
After breakfast 8 to Market Rasen to the White' Hart for a trap for the long
drive over the Wolds. ~~ice a year for over 60 years has one of us made this
pilgrimage, very delightful among these big farmers, tenants, hereditary you
might say, of the Denisons. First to Cates Grange, to Kelstern Hall, Sharpleys
and Odlings, and then 'talked across the fields to the Grange for dinner avoiding
Harrisonfs big bull.
Tues.,6th July.
To the Clinton Arms at Newark for the Ossington Audit and home at 4
for Margie's birthday (8) party. She had been early into our bedroom uith
her presents, a pretty graceful little girl in her long ''1hite "nightyl'
an~er any trouble since she was born save the jump she gave us when
2i"she nearly died of pneumonia.
\'ieds.,7th July.
-Drove to Ossington and driving round th~ estate and to Morris's for tea.
Thurs.,8th July.
Drove with Madge Spencer (Tommy) all morning to Edingley, Hexgreave and
along the wild Rufford Road to Lim~b~~e in Arnold to Calverton. At Calverton .
Tithe passed a band of colliers,sr!¥~e~at8estwood, 6 miles off, with whippets:
reminded me of the great 1893 strike which was nearly revolution.
Fri., 9th July.
By early train to meet Major Robertson and so to Peterbro by train, drove
thence to Washingley. Returned at 7 and found Nell and Muriel who had been
playing tennis, and 'vho left for Nottingham later.
Sat. ,lOth July.
The Standard Test shooting for t my company. A Lieutenant of the Derbys
to lunch and also Capt. Hobbs our Adjutant. Becher and Hodgkinson (Ne\·rark) also
on range and came in afterwards. Tea in our laundry for our men at 6 to 7 and
the old courtyard with its gothic gables and porch looked quite enlivened with
the groups of armed men in buff and leathers as in old days.

Sun. ,11th July.

Very 'vet but "Tommy" Spencer and I drove to the church parade at South'vell
putting up at the Bechers. Paraded on the Burgage Green, a large party,
detaclments of S. Notts Hussars and Lincolnshire Yeomanry, a strong muster
of ours smart in new caps and the Boys Brigade under Colour Sergt. Schumaick.
\ve halted in the Norman nave of the cathedral to leave great coats and very
impressive the massive building with the bright uniforms. We officers posing
by the screen no doubt looked a charming group, Hobbs, Becher and I in scarlet,
Philip War\vic~n Hussars uniform and Becher's cousin in rifle uniform. Then filed
into the chancel, the Canons and officers in the stalls, and the typical country
to,vn congregation, the ancient Bechers, the rising Merr~veathers, and sundry families
of the clergy. Elsie War\'1ick opposite looked tireq am afraid a love affair. We fell
in outside and marched to the Burgage whose fate is from the Romans till now to be
a place of soldiery. Went to the }Uu1or House to see poor cousin Huskinson who
can still get about a little. To lunch at Bechers, a merry party. William is home
from Spain, having stayed at Paris and London en route and leaves this week for
Stockholm. He says the continent is screaming with laughter at John Bull being
made to toe the line by Germany but says that Germany means London and certainly
we arein no enviable state with a crazy democracy in power. Ld. Grimthorpe told
him that the Lords will pass the Budget,that Lloyd George is detested by his oun
party and the Budget if not reversed will reduce the fortunes of the old families
by the iniquitous charge of the Death Duties.
Mon.,12th July.
To see my dentist and then to Ruddington walking over Lineker's farm.
Have been suffering from rheumatism or something in the shoulders and arms
which broke out in countless little blains in the hands and will probably
relieve it. Nell, Madge09pencer, Miss Bond and Polly playing tennis in the
Evening•
.Tues.,13th July.
Driving IITommyll round by Lime Lane and Calverton.
vleds. ,14th July. G-1A.1;t.~
By 9 train to Newark, then to Nottingham for ~jmtftarp~ Bridge meeting,
lunch at the Club and home by 6 train.

Thurs.,15th July.
Polly's party very fine and many there, Sherbrookes, Bechers, Hanafords,
etc. One feature of this cool cloudy summer is the heavy flowering of trees
and shrubs.
Fri. ,16th July.
In the afternoon to Balderton to see William W~lick about reducing
his establishment in view of the Budget. His garden full of fruit.
Sat. ,17th July.
Nottingham to see Nell off, and home at 1.30 for lunch. Bobbie Wordsworth
from Perlethorpe drove to help in my half company Standard Test shooting. The
gathering at the range about 2.30, men coming in from all quarters, some on
bicycles, then the sound of martial music from the direction of Lowdham heralded
the band and a section from Southwell, all smart in service uniforms (tartan colour)
and gold buttons, brown boots and belts. We finished under 3 hours and 20 minutes
for 44 men firing 23 rounds each. Polly, Margie and IITommyll came to look on and
brought tea and later all had tea at Parrs and walked about my garden till the
band and train par~y marched off for Lowdham.
Sun. ,18th July.
Spent quietly at home.
Mon. ,19th July.
To Shenvood Lodge for lunch which prevented my getting to the Gonalston
party.
Tues. ,20th July.
Cycling round by Caunton, I looked in at Winkburn to see Miss Moore the
schoolmistress and so on to the Colonel who was going out driving.
\·leds., 21st July.
To Toton and back for a call on my dentist.
Thurs. , 22nd July
Drove in the afternoon to Mansfield but did not buy land at the sale.
Walked round the to~m recalling the old places which I remembered as a small boy
of 8 at school in a little house just opposite the new recreation ground near
the cattlemarket. The place is not improved, it is becoming a collier town
instead of a pleasant residential country town. The old Grammar School, a
pleasant country house gone; the old Elizabethan house where the gas works are
now gone, and so on, and the country walk to the village of Mansfield Woodhouse
so pretty formerly all gone. It was in '71 the Yeomanry were up and we used to
go to an upper room over a shop opposite the Swan whilst the band played and
the officers dined upstairs: old Colonel Welfiet commanded then.
Sat., 24th July.
Polly and Hargie left for a stay at Clifford whilst I am at camp. Hadge
Spencer left yesterday for visits.
Sun., 25th July.

Left at 10.30., Lowdham station, on the half battalion train for the camp
on Scarboro Race Course. Officers with me Becher, Appleby, Hodgkinson. The weather
stormy but got my men into camp during a dry interval. The remainder of the
battalion got in later at about 5. We are about 4000 strong in camp, being the Sher-
wood Foresters Brigade 5th and 6th (Derbyshires) 7th (Robin Hoods) and8th Notts.
(ours), the Brigade Field Ambulance and Army Service Corps company under Brigadier
Hurray. A very cold wet camp for the first 10 days, when the weather turned to
summer. Certainly we were 500 ft. on a hill and it ~JaS much warmer and dryer do\m
in the town. We had some new officers, nice boys, Weakes, Bigg (Doctor at Bingham),
Cursham and White. (\ihite commanded the colour party when it came from France,
Nov. 1918, to take the colours which had been put in Newark church, 1914). He was
brother of Sir R.W. of Wallin~lells. The ancestors of this last on two occasions,
1588 and 1802 raised volunteer regiments, predecessors of ours, equipped at their
own expense. Hence the baronetcy conferred. Charlie is here on the Brigade staff,
2 men servants, horse and motor. The Brigade and the 6th Derbys are housed in the
grand stand: with fires, etc. and it was noticeable that whereas the other officers
messes in spite of the wet did not suffer from cold this regiment did. In fact it
was a beastly camp and largely due to the early morning drill being given to
physical exercises. As 3rd officer I often got mounted and we had a good string
of horses.
I had demobilised my household completely. Barker and his wife looked after
the house: the horses were turned out and I took Knight to camp and the maids went
on holiday,Emily the cook going with Mrs. Knight to Scarboro.

Our lines were on the north side of the Race Course against the Beacon,
·che Robin Hodd officers mess next ours and the Army Service and horse lines beyond.
Our first ten days were mostly cold and wet, in fact towards the end of the
week very wet though most rain came at night so we missed few drills and on the
beautiful Ireton Moor close by with its beautiful views very pleasant indeed they were.
Our early morning parades at 6 were chiefly given to physical drill, an
exercise which kept the camp wonderfully healthy and in good temper. At 7.30 our
battalion paraded for prayers which led to an amusing episode for as Brigadier Murray
 was riding by he asked who was that in white, and seeing what was going on ejaculated
"Damn it, they are at prayers". The Brigadier •.,.ho •.,.as formerly Colonel of the Royal
Scots wears the Scots cap with chequer border and at the late Chatsworth Review,
being then unknown to the men, one asked •.,.ho he was. "\Vat, 'e? Oh 'e' s 'Arry Lauder"
•.,.as the response and" 'Arry Lauder" he is to the whole brigade after that. musical
burlesquer of Scotch ways.
On the Sunday afternoon of arrival the other half battalion arrived about an
hour after us on which we all mustered for an address from Colonel Foljambe.
Tuesday Mellish was away so I was mounted as major. This camp I expect my
promotion and several times was mounted as major.
One evening this week I went out to the Mess ,Night of the 6th Batt. (old 2nd
Derbys) and much fun. One day we had a long field day to Wykeham Lowe Moor, fortunately
fine. I had the advance guard, the brigade following, through Ayton to Hutton'Bnshel
and then to the Moor. We came home separately by a steep hill road near Hackness, a
lovely valley, and then up through Raincliffe Woods over Irton Moor to camp"
Next day I ,'/as in command and we •.,.ent to Newthorpe and attacked the Camp through
the woods and over the moor. In the afternoons I generally got a walk dO~nl to Scarboro,
now very gay with the numerous uniforms.
Saturday was wet but it cleared in the afternoon so went a walk with Hellish
to Scally Mills and back by the church and old to\'ln to the harbour where the herring
season is just commencing and the ,pcotch fisher girls do\vn. From the to\'ln we can get
by train to Scally Road or by motor'charabancs to the camp and saves a hilly walk
by the ladders.
~lhen at school here in the "seventies" our autumn term was much enlivened
by friends as visitors: my grandfather and grandmother generally spending several
\'/eeks at St. Nicholas Parade or the Grand and every Wednesday I had generally the
\.,.hole day off and half of Saturdays and all Sundays which meant one could do as
cne liked. The Percys were generally near too and my grandfather spent much of
his time sea-fishing. Mr. Goodall and his wife and carriage were often down. Mrs.
Wright of Collaton spent a spring in a ~ouse near the Grand now pulled dO\'ln'and
ever hospitable I was often there.
Monday (Bank Holiday) came out fine at last and to cheer up the men the whole
brigade paraded and we had a route march to Scarboro and along the Filey Road and back
by the Esplanade, a big show and much appreciated by the people.
Later in the ~/eek \'le had another field day at \'lykeham Hoor,_ with the regular
artillery out from the barracks. I \'Jas mounted this day and commanded half the
reserve when the line began to retire. I took up a position to protect the retirement
and the Brigadier complimented me on my disposition of force. \Vhen the Assembly
sounded the other battalions wished to return by the road but we were allowed to
come back a way we had explored and got in and had dinner in camp before the others
arrived.
On the last Friday we, the 8th, were in defence of the camp and attacked by
the rest of the brigade. Trenches and gun pits had been dug and the artillery from
Scarboro joined in. The General Commanding the North, Oliphant from York, was present.
I had two companies to make a counter attack from our right against Rordbrow Wood ~
.. ~ as soon as I was there my scouts came in to say that our picket was cut up and a ~­
~iderable force with a maxim was making a turning movement through the wood, so I had
only time to hastily take up a defensive position in the wood, some paths giving us
some natural entrenchments.
 ~ ;2. I, u:r 01-
The last Saturday we had only a short drill to let the men have a half-
holiday and I uentinto the to\'ffi and harbour, made bright \·lith many uniforms
and many wer e having tea at the open windows of the cafes overlooking the
foreshore. That evening the Aobins played"Auld lang syne"to the Brigadier.
1ater a fire in some gorse caused the alarm to be sounded, the bugle gave the
Brigade call and the alarm quickly taken up by the others: but no harm done.

Up at 4 next morning, Sunday, and struck camp. I sent off Knight \·rith my
luggage by train and marched down with the battalion, and then on to the Grand
Hotel where I stayed till the Mond~. Here many I knew. The Hotel very well planned
especially the central hall and staircases: the whole in the spirit of the Second
Empire when the place was built. Very fine and warm and spent a pleasant time
recalling old haunts. Looked at the place on the Castle Rock that I climbed up
as a boy but should not like to do it now.
On Monday afternoon a long railway journey home and met Polly and Margie
returning from Clifford at Nottingham. The rest of the week I attended to
business, going to Toton, Ossington and elsewhere, and the Sunday I was also
at home. A fine hot week (the only fine fortnight this year as it turned out).
Hon. ,16th Aug.
To Sherwood Lodge for lunch where Sir Charles, Frank Seely and his family.
Tues. ,17th Aug.
Had a long ride to Edingley Moor to look at some burst land drains. I had not
ridden for some time and took my little mare.

\veds. ,18th Aug.

William had been staying some time after his visit to Count PUckler, the
German Minister at Stockholme. P. is anglophil~ but his people anglophobe.
William said the German scare was we should a~ack them and the German fleet
being round P~ince A$talbeft~was almost rude to w. Wi1liam thinks the German's
real objective is S. America. Arthur Keyser just looked in for the day coming
from Brocklesby where he had been staying with the Yarboroughs. Had been with
the Portlands at Welbeck when I was at camp.

Fri. ,2()th Aug.

To Southwell to the Board in the afternoon. Drove to Basford Hall to stay
with the Fowlers.
Thurs.,26th Aug.
Polly had a tennis party but I managed to get to Toton in the morning.
Sat., 28th Aug.
Except for the middle week in August which was the only spell of summer
this year, a very cold and wet summer. Going into the County Club at 2 met Mellish
and Sir Charles Seely. Sir Chas. motored me out to Sher\'lOod for a children's party
where Polly and Margie were but first called to meet at the Victoria Station his son
Colonel John S. now under Secretary for the Colonies, who has been so successful in
the matter of the S. African Union. A large merry party of children and we played
cricket. Pretty to see Sir Charles playing \·rith his youngest grandchild. He is nm'l
76 years old and has 46 grandchildren of whom generally ~ or 3 parties of them are
staying at this large house.
Sun., 29th AUgust.
At home. To Church in the morning. We are luxuriating with our peaches and
grapes now. Certainly Fate works wonderfully: here I am back against all
expectation in our old house, which has a mediaeval flavour I always liked, and
such a manageable, comfortable telescopic establishment. My gardener is the 3rd
generation in our service, Ethel is the 4th generation and the coachman and his
wife old servants with old Tom Willies in reserve. Polly the best of housekeepers.
I hope and expect our total expenditure will not exceed £800 this year.

Mon., 30th Aug.

Cycled to Rnddington to tea at the Club. Came back by the Plains.
Tues. ,31st Aug.

Lunched at Hexgreave where a pleasant widow and a friend. Mrs. Wilson's

younger daughter, just from school at Paris, a pretty slight girl with pretty
manners. Drove back for tea at the Rectory where the Richardsons.

\1eds. ,1st Sept.

So bad a year for partridges that I saw no parties going out after the birds.
Cycled to Nottingham and by train to Widmerpool and cycled along the Foss, or
rather walked this here deserted highway to where the old Roman camp was and then
by Willoughby across Willoughby field where the cavalry fight was in the Civil
Wars to Wysall. Wysall with its spire very reminiscent of Epperstone from several
points of view. To Widmerpool Hal~ for lunch Nheren.the Revd. Williamson, an old
friend back from New Zealand and ~na, but the Major gone out. Widmerpool with
its pretty gardens and formerly its Rectory a welcome house of call for me for 20
years past. Cycling back by the villas in W. Bridgford Hill remembered an old
invitation of old Clark, the old pawnbroker of \iheelergate, and now well to do
and retired: so turned in for tea, his wife a handsome pleasant woman and a
pretty granddaughter from Washington State U.S.A. A good collection of china,
pictures, etc. and stayed till near 7 so only just got home before dark.

Thurs. ,2nd S~pt.

A very fine day and at 9 cycled to Syerston, 10 miles, and walked over some
of the land with George Fillingham. Back for lunch where Major and Mrs. Manu and in
the afternoon Polly's party, the last of her series, which went off well. Capt.
Sherbrooke and his daughter, Mrs. Popert, the Kelhams, Powells, Norman and Elsie
Warwick, the Wilson girls, Charlie and Annie, etc.

Fri., 3rd Sept.

To Southwell for the Board and lunched at Burgage Manor and home for tea
where the Richardsons. Patrick my nephew and Tommy Bakewell over from Farndon
for the day.
Mon., 6th Sept.
To Sherwood Lodge for lunch where I found myself in with another party of
20 children of this interesting family. Sir 6harles has 46 grandchildren, the
eldest about 21, of these 22 are boys and 24 girls, not one cripple or defective
among them. He the aged patriarch and with his immense wealth can provide an
easy hospitality to all the branches.
 23,

Thurs. ,9th Sept.

Busy at Calverton all morning trying to arrange more small holdings.
Fri. ,10th Sept.
Bicycled to Ossington to see how harvest goes.

Sat. ,11th Sept.

By 11 train in uniform to Derby range. White, Cursham and myself keeping
the butt registers for the 5th Battn. The Sergt. Major and some 30 marksmen
in the butt gallery and so the time not the solitary penance I expected.

Sun. ,12th Sept.

In the evening with Margie alone to Church.

Tues. ,13th Sept.

By early train to London to see Sir R. Thompson at Somerset House to see
if.a place under the Finance Act can be secured for Ernest. By accident at lunch
afterwards quite a family gathering for picking up Dick and Teddy at the Tatler
offices we came upon Percy and his boy who were meeting Nell. I after went
·do\fn to the House of Commons to see if Goulding was in, but he was not. It is
amusing the suspicious glances at the few women seen in the precincts,
as they are forbidden unless with Members and the gates are picketted with
suffragists. Found Miss Boughton Leigh on a visit to us on my return.
Tues.,15th Sept.
A fine day and early to Skegness to see the Convalescent Hospital
for Sir Charles. Pleas~ to get a peep of my beloved sea. An east wind churned~
up these shallo\'/ waters" wrrom the Roman Banks to "Horning Da\m" near Ingoldsby
and after going round the grounds walked by the sands to Skegness, the mirage
is rather trying to the eyes and the bright weather caused it strongly. Skegness has
few people and the cold summer causes a poor season. The charmsof the Lincolnshire
coast are the sand dunes and the enclosure of them as at golf links.and villas
are in my mind most impro~er for these have been a no~-man's land for centuries:
besides on a high tide a ship-wrecked crew might easily in many places be debarred
from landing by a barbed wire fence.
Thurs~,16th Sept.
Walked in the afternoon to show Miss Boughton Leigh Woodbro Church.
Fri.,17th Sept.

Cycled early to Fenton and.back by Claypole stopping to go into the

fine Church. A new brick bridge has just displaced an old 14th century bridge
of a most picturesque type. Some remains of the Hall of the Claypoles,
Cromwell's Claypoles close by.
Sat.,18th Sept.
To Nottingham and missed Sir Charles so out early and drove to Holy Hill
on the top of which I met him and had tea at the cottage. In the evening Canon
Jaques who is taking tomorrow's services came to dinner.

Sun.19th Sept.
At home in the morning. Canon Jaques to tea and Charlie also looked in
having motored over from Farndon. To Church with Polly and Margie in the
evening. P. playing the organ as in dayd long ago.

Tues. ,21st Sept.

Miss Paget the owner of Ruddington at Nottingham so at 10 to the Victoria

Hotel whe~she, her niece, Mrs. ~llieeler, and her hnsband, a clergyman, a very
pleasant man. Drove out to Ruddington and all round the farms and lunched
at the Vicarage with Boykett and his family. To the church after, a fine new
building built mostly by the Pagets, very large and good design, quite the
best of the Victorian churches in Notts. though Sir Charles Seely's at Daybrook
and the Duke of Newcastle's at Clumber run it close. Back for tea at 5. All
the P. family (Chas.P's) were born at the old Manor, now called the Hermitage
where Ld. F. BlacID~ood lives.

Weds.,22nd Sept.
Rode to Calverton and had tea at Oxton with the Sherbrooke's, where Mrs.
Bryan (Violet Sherbrooke) is with her little girl.
Thurs.,23rd Sept.
By first train to Hinckley and returning to Leicestor to call on poor
old Tucker who has recently lost his wife. I had fine sunny weather but rain and thunder
all day in Notts.and walking up the lightning shone through the haze, little sheet
lightning.
Fri. ,24th Sept.
Fine, but what a dull wet summer, indeed no summer but the harvest heavy.
A merry children's cricket match on the la~m.

Sat. ,25th Sept.

To Nottingham. Neighbour Richardson M.P. well recovered from his accident.
Sun. ,26th Sept.
Charles Richardson myoId tenant to dinner last night, very altered in his
views from his old radical days. At home all day except to call on my Mother.
Polly busy all day with the organ and school: so left alone in the house in the
afternoon and wandered all over thinking myself very lucky to have so pretty
ramblin~ house with its quaint gothic air, with such good old furniture, pictures
 ~, :2-:), l.fJ 01_
of value and old portraits, china and plate'. I have recently got the portrait
of my grandfather which I have hung in the long passage from the Hall. The old
passage very irregular and mostly high and wide and divided with round arches
at intervals: along which hang some old portraits and stand some old owt chests,
quite a stately closed cloister.

Hon., 27th Sept.

Tried to go by train to Clixby but being so very late on account of Southwell
fair I turned back and rode to Syerston for lunch. Mrs. Bryan staying there. Very fine.

Tues. ,28th Sept.

Very wet but nevertheless drove to Knapthorpe and then to Winkburn at 6 for
a talk with Colonel Burnell.

Weds~129th Sept.
Early to meet the hounds at Bleasby. Capt. Hobbs out, also Annie and a
large contingent from Farndon, the merry widows from Epperstone.
Thurs.,30th Sept.
To the meeting of the County Association at Nottingham, as to uniforms for
the Territorials. Mostly military members. Major Baines (secretary), Col. le Merchant
in the Chair, Brigadier Rolleston (Cavalry Division) and Murray. Colonels Foljambe,
Mellish, Brewill, Capts. Hamilton and Ld. Fredk. BlacID100d, Pole (from Lichmield)
Clay, Chief Constable of Nottingham and the Mayor of Ne\1ark, the first talkaHve,
the other silent, also Colonel Denison. At 2 to Hakksworth for John Bradwell's funeral,
very large attendance with many Yeomen in uniform, he being once Quartermaster.
Bradwell was a prominent auctioneer and had saved considerably and has a pretty
old Manor House here and 300 acres of good land.
Fri. ,1st Oct.
To Toton with AleckBirkin and tea at the Club.
Sat. ,2ndd. Oct.
Rain. Sitting at Nottingham as Income Tax Commissioner, but back at 1
to superintend firing on range of E. Company. The officers came to lunch and
tea. Fine later but it is never so 3 days together and much corn out spoiling.
Sun.,3rd Oct. Rain, but to church with Polly.
Tues., 5th Oc.t
B~ 11 train to Moortown and drove by Caistor to the Clixby Farms and had
tea with Benson Spelman one of the tenants and one of the new Liberal made magistrates.
A pretty place this, especially the Manor Farm, where Spelman's cousin is. This
property belongs to Col. Burnell. Caistor a fine healthy situation with some old
Georgian houses, a little social centre, dowagers, clergymen's widows, doctor, etc.
\'leds.,6th Oct.
A good run with hounds, found at Thistley Coppice late and after a circle by
Halloughton Wood, \'lesthorje dumoes and back by Radleys farm where the fox to ground,
bolted and killed him. H~es so high and full of foliage it was like hunting through
woods, and but for General \'larrand's bridle gates would have been hopelessly hindered.
Only the Earl, his servants and myself waited to bolt the fox.
Thurs. ,7th Oct.
To Washingley near Peterbro, a fine day and a good long walk in this
fine lone country.
Fri. ,8th Oct.
To Basford. Drove and got off on the plains and into the to\~,
very busy with Goose fair. Stayed the night with the Fowlers. Polly
and I to meet General Sir John and Lady Moody.
Sat. ,9th Oct.
Came into Nottingham, lunched with Muriel and Nell at North Lodge,
and then home.
Mon. ,11th Oct.
To Nottingham first to Mr. T. Hill's funeral service at St. Mary's.
He \.,ras well over 80 and had been partner in "Morleys" great hosiery making firm.
Aftenrards lunch at the Club where I sa"r Sir F. Birkin, Tylden \'lright on
business affairs and also Ford who is boring for coal at Kelham.
\·leds. ,13th Oct.
To Fiskerton to the meet but overtaken by an unusual storm, took refuge
in a barn at Bank Wood. It cleared and was fine and sunny for the rest of the day.
Out besides the Earl, Miss Mundy of Shipley, all the Broadhursts, the merry widows,
Annie, Lords Basil and Frederick Black\.,rood, etc. At 5 tea in the Hall and Hiss
Hundy came in also Dennis Bayley and his "life and Revd. Robinson.

Thurs. ,14th Oct.

Beautifully fine. Rode to Ossington and lunched at the Hall. Setting back
after dusk found Knight had an accident while bringing Margie from her dancing class
at the Barrows. A shaft broken and other damage but might have been most serious.
Fri. ,15th Oct.
Capital cross country travelling, left Lowdham at 20 to 8 for Lincoln
and got to Ely before 11. \vaited for Mr. Geeson and Keble and out to Shippen and
spent the time looking over land. Back at 4 for Cambridge where a great and
fashionable crO\.,rd from Newmarket and caught the train for Kettering \·rhere just
caught the express for Nottingham and do\~ at Lowdham at 8. Here rain all day but
I had it fine.
Sat. ,16th Oct.
Knight in bed still so walked to Station at 10 for Nottingham and to the
Club at 3 for tea.
Sun. ,17th Oct.
A fine morning so did not go to Church. After dinner sitting in the hall
I heard a disturbance outside and found Percy and his motor car, a Daimler
"Silent Knight" ",ith Nell, Buriel,IITommy Teddie'J and a very pretty nurse. Nurse
and boy were left to play with Margie and I went on with them to Barnby Hoor some
35 miles off for tea, past Rufford through the autumn tinted Forest, Clumber and
Blythe and back by \·lorksop. Why, '.IHtn years ago half the distance \'lould be a heavy
day's journey for a carriage. The Inn at Barnly Moor, a fine old coaching house,
full of people having tea. This week is the Concaster Aviation week. Back by 6.
\1eds. ,20th Oct.
Rode to Gunner Lane but late and followed the hounds evidently running
quickly to Halloughton ~lood and Thistly Coppice, '-lhere che'cking my hip ,...as
so stiff either strain or rheumatism I came home.
Thurs. ,21st Oct.
To She~iood for lunch with Sir Charles.
Fri. ,22nd Oct.
A long walk over Toton in the afternoon.
Weds.,27th Oct. ,
To Nevlark and lunched ,dth Charlie and Becher at L ?
where I have not been for a long time.~On Thurs.,2lst I had a providential
escape from loss. Knight had driven Margie and Miss Bond to her dancing class
at Normanton Hall (Barrmis) and driving a"'Jay got suung from the box the reins caught
in the wheel and pulled the ~orse dO"'ln which behaved like an angel and Miss Bond

Thurs.,28th.Oct. *'
and Margie go~ out. A broken shaft and Knight laid up for a week the only result.
Ae-rlA~, ~r ~ -tlLc.~l t:n'1-~'1 /4?"·
Drove Polly and Margie and lunched at Canon Glaister's at Southwell.
They to the dancing class and home at 4. Het Hrs. Arkl'1right, I remembered
20 years ago a little girl at Dudley when I stayed with her father, Mr. Tylden
~lright.

Fri., 29th Oct.

To the South'iell Board and \dth Polly afte~'lards bought several things
at Castles.
Sat. ,30th Oct.
To Trent Range uhere Fowler was: tried the new aperture sight at 800 yards
and got a bull straight a\'1ay. Afte~'1ards abou6 40 Robin Hoods came do\'1n and we
superintended the Test shooting. Came back with our member Starkey.
Sun. ,alst Oct.
Lady Ley, Gordon and his wife at Church. Philip W~iick and Gordon called
in the afternoon.
Mon., 1st Nov.
The opening meet of Ld. Harrington's hounds at the Manor. Charlie
resplendent in scarlet and Annie came over from Farndon, a gay assemblage
and much photographed. I had to turn back on account of my boots but overtook
hounds at Oxton just as they found, but my lumbago or strain or something
prevented my following except slowly and they had a quick run to Newstaad Park
where they had to call off hounds~ Harry Sherbrooke was out having a short Navy
leave. They found again in the Bogs and I folloued but soon turned for home.
Tues. ,2nd Nov.
To lunch at Sherwood and had a brace of pheasants given me: this with a
brace from Gibbs and another from Sir T. Birkin quite fills my larder with game.
 \Jeds. ,3rd Nov.
To Newark and thence at 1 to Ossington where I drove with Morris to
Napenny.farm and home late.
Thurs. ,4th Nov.
To Grantham to the Angel Hotel an.
old 15th century building in
part in fine stonework, the bar is the room where Richard III is said to have .
signed the Duke of Somerset's death warrant. Had lunch and then held the
meeting of Notts and Lines Land Agents, but very few present.
Sat. ,6th Nov.
To Nottingham and home by 4 train. Whilst at Club talked to Knowles
of Colston Bassett, Sir T. Birkin and Ld. Man~ers. Polly had been golfing at
Newark motoring over with Percy, Muriel and Edward.
Sun. ,7th Nov.
To Church in the evening with Polly and Margie.
Hon. ,8th Nov.
At home all day, lovely autumn weather and spent much time in
pruning in the orchard.
Tues.,9th Nov.
So fine, bicycled to Winkburn, the place quite a slice of the 18th
century in the 20th. As Manager of the School I went there to see the children
and left 5/- to be divided among the 30. Met Miss Burnell, a nice old lady, twice
and then a long wallc by the lovely woods to Dilliner and other farms, quite 4 hours
in perfect weather in this wild retired par~. Got home at dusk.

\·Jeds.,lOth Nov.
Drove to the meet at Bleesby Hall and went into see the Kelhams, a small
field: Then by train to Ne\'Tark and lunched \'Tith Charlie and home at 3. Busy after
pruning the orchard.
Thurs.,llth Nov.
To lunch at Sherwood, a large party, Sir Charles, Miss Seely, the Frank
Seelys, Colonel John who is just made a Privy Councillor, Miss Jackson and Mrs.
Ramsay of Islay. To Calverton in the afternoon and tea at the Hall \'Ti th Frank Seely.
Fri.,12th Nov.
Sent Knight on to Farndon with the hunter so as to save myself, still
feeling the rheumatism, .and then drove across Grimthorpe Bridge with Polly,
14 miles to the heet at Rippon Brockton's house: an old Queen Anne type of
house, small. Brockton has some 200 or 300 acres of land which he farms.
His daughter fortunately for the family fortune married a son of Lord Masham's
,.Jith an immense income=*A regular old fashioned meet here and breakfast quite in the
style of Jorrockses hunt. The merry widows came in and the black witch fell to voracious
My Lord came late but we soon found and I enjoyed a real good gallop. Ld. Fredk.Black\~oo
and his wife out from Stoke, she a pretty little woman not long married, whose acquain-
tance I made. Joined Folly at Red Lodge and drove homJl.

*'1~"'~ ()~~~~~:-'" k;s ~-r..er ~-to ~o-fODd.-t1·e4r l,.,,·}-~ 1't.trW"~-r-e.r-rr'~

~Iu;: ~s Ol/..h ~CA.\J.-Rd ~fl..1"ocA~ cl-' /~ claM juef~."&..~"",-~;­
~ B-<oJh-T~s ~t4!) V,E. /'
Sat. ,13th Nov.
To Nottingham and at 2 to Toton where Char1ie Birkin and his Robin Hoods
out for a field day. I walked with Mann the Brigade 11ajor till dusk. A
lot of Birkins, Wi110ughbys and Russells out in motors.
Hon. ,15th Nov.
Heard Mrs. Dufty at Ley's instigation is going to cut the elms dO\in in
Gon~ton Lane at the end of the village. Vandalisml
Tues.,16th Nov.
To Sherwood for lunch, a large family party. Riding and better.
\veds.,17th Nov.
Hunted a short time from Arnold Lodge but after a gallop about Oxton got
very stiff.
Thurs.,18th Nov.
To Widmerpool, walking over part of Stanton. Richardson to dinner.
Fri.,19th Nov.
To Red Lodge for the hounds, drove with Polly. Charlie and Annie out, also
Philip War\iick very tired of Fitzherbert's hunting the Rufford which I jokingly
called the foot beagles. Some run about Shelton and rode home very stiff.
Sat. ,20th Nov.
Bicycled to Woodbro Park and back at 11 for Nottingham. Not well. Met. Col.
Burnell and Capt. Sherbrooke but did not go to the Club.

Sun. ,21st Nov.

St~ed all morning in bed and in all day when the stiffness left me a good deal.
Polly and Margie to Church in the morning. ~largie just had a present from her
Uncle Ed\iard of a red cloak.
Sun. ,28th Nov.
Stayed in bed late, very stiff. Yesterday consulted Dr. Jacob who was much
puzzled, thinks I have some form of muscular rheumatism but otheniise in excellent
health. Theo Spencer staying with us. Jobsons, Ley's brother-in-law, to tea and
afteniards talked about Lord of Manor claims which startled me considerably.
Ley thinks he may have claims over all minerals in Epperstone.
Hon. ,29th Nov.
At the Den and among my father's papers found the Home Terrier of 1734 which
completely dismisses Ley's case, so went for Jobson and satisfied him. The Manor
is a nominal honorary matter here.
Tues. ,30th Nov.
To Sher\iood Lodge for lunch, a large party and many children. Sir Charles has
now 47 granchildren of which 23 are boys. Went with Sir Charles to his waste lands
near Newstead, a beautiful neighbourhood close to the Queen's Bower where in Forest
days the ladies \iatched the deer driven, some 3 or 4000 acres all around are no\-!
woodlands. The Lotds have hung up the Budget and a General Election in sight. I hope
the Lords win, the Commons have been a nuisance for many years.
 3D,
Heds.,lst Dec.
To Nottingham for the Toton audit at the Black Boy.
Thurs. ,2nd Dec.
Writing all ~orning in my cosy study looking out on the 1aw~At 1 drove with
Po11y and Margie to Southwe11, looked in at the Mintter, and then to Normanton Hall
to see Hargie at her dancing class. To tea at the Hobbs. Eretty Mrs. Hobbs and
her baby.
Fri., 3rd Dec.
To Ossington by train at noon it having been a great gale. S~w the Squire·
and back at 8.
Sat. ,4th Dec.
To Nottingham at 11.30. Called to see Sir T. Birkin, met Phi11imore and B1agg
who are getting up Notts pedigrees. Mine they carry back to Charles I time but
could do so they think to Elizabeth's time. For 200 years, 17th and 18th century,
the family were at Cropwe11 Bishop. Saw Johnson the vet and told him his mother-
in-1a\'i \'/as sparing the sho\"l elm at the end of village. \'lalked from Thurgarton
having missed Lo\.,.dham station talking to Hoore.
Sun.,5th Dec.
In bed till 12 very stiff. Po11y and Margie to school at 3 as usual.
A little sno'.,..
Hon. ,6th Dec. R.~~
To meet Sir Charles in Rai~aule and spent the rest of the day in Ca1verton
settling the smallholdings question.
Tues.,7th Dec.
To Ruddington for the audit and after to call on Major Mann who \"Ias in bed
,'Ii th sciatica.
Heds. ,8th Dec.
Had lunch with Char1ie and Becher in Newark.
Thurs.,9th Dec.
At 7 to a Conservative Committee meeting at Lowdham. Mr. Francklin in
the Chair.
Fri. ,10th Dec.
To Farnsfie1d for Hilson's audit, Laurence Hi1son at dinner. Parish Council
at 8.30 dividing the Charity Rents among the poor. £18.
Sat.,llth Dec. To Nottingham.
Sun. ,12th Dec. To Church in the evening.
Hon.,13th Dec.
By 10 train to Peterbro for Vashing1ey. Walked round the cathedral and then
train to Yax1ey and put up at Norman Cross Inn. Near by a large park like field ,...as
100 years ago a prison for French prisoners of war, and there is much art work by
them about here, straw plaited goods, models of ships, etc. At 3 to the Fox at
Folltsworth. Met some hunters returning. Mrs. Freeman gave me a good tea and I took
the small rents. Many of the old thatched cottages still left here, very pretty and
 3/.
the old type of labourer, very picturesque. A fe\'l years and all this uill be
of the past, and none knou the beauties of the old type of village.
Tues.14th Dec.
Drove to Farcet and met Mr. Geeson about Hill's property. Back at 12
for the audit and home by train.
\·leds. ,15th Dec.
To the George at Nottingham for the Widmerpool audit. At 5 to the Exchange
Hall for a meeting of the Thornton Society. Blagg showed me a copy of a Will
of one of my ancestors, Richard Huskinson of Cropwell Bishop 1598, leaving his
soul to God and among other things his britches to his brother Thomas.
Thurs. 16th Dec.
Read Mulliner's letter and history of his g~v~ng the Government information
of secret preparation of the German Navy. I met Mulliner 18 years ago when his
sister, Mrs. Sollory lived at the Rock. At that house Mrs. Hill has joined the
"merry ".ridm.,rs" having separated from her husband, C. Hill of Uoodbro Hall. A pity.
I remember her a child of 9 uhen she and her sisters lodged at the Mill. Drove
uith Polly to call on Mr. and Mrs. Francklin and at 6 to Calverton for the Audit.
Sat. ,18th Dec.
To Nottingham, George Hotel, for Sir Charles Seely's audit. All the
uaiters Germans so had to talk in whispers of the serious naval situation.
Sun. ,19th Dec.
Richard staying a weekend at the Den. He is going to Paris for Christmas,
\'lilliam also. \'lilliam is no\.,r member of the \'lindham ClUb, St. James' s Square, and
is at the Berkeley with some Russian Prince. Mirske of Mir, killed by Bolshevicks 1918.
Mon. ,20th Dec.
Woke up with 5 inches of snow through which I had to drive to Winkburn
for the audit. Ernest rode. I had a long talk with Colonel Burnell after in
the old panelled library. He is a man I am very fond of; but it is a quaint
old 18th century establishment with its little school, its little Norman church,
its ~een Anne Hall and stables and \·ride park and \'loods. A lovely moonlight drive
home in the snow.
Tues., 21st Dec.
A hard frost all day and night up to 23 0 at times, but bright and sunny.
A worked a good deal in the garden, pruning trees, etc. The trees covered with
hoar frost.
\'leds. ,22nd Dec.
A sudden change in the early morning: heavy rain and weather as mild as May
all day and snow gone by night, so considerable floods. To Newark and lunch with
Charlie.
Thurs., 23rd Dec.
To Nottingham to the Shire Hall to see Bristowe on Winkburn school matters.
To Toton and home later. Snow all gone.
 32 I

Fri. ,24th Dec., Christmas Eve.

Rode at 10 to Southwell to the Board and lunched with Elsie WanJick.
Called to enquire after General Warrand after his accident, pony slipped on
tarmac riding home from hunting. He is now 79 and hunted with the Rufford since
he was 7. A lovely fine afternoon to ride home by the wild upland farms and woods.
Home at 3.30 and found Percy and Huriel and their family, Ge6f_~rY ahd Le6nard '
(Tommy Teddy) and nurse arrived in their motor bringing also E~ward. Later arrived
Charlie and Annie and their boy Patrick, so the old house is crammed from cellar
to attic. The children played hide and seek over the place and later Polly
surprised me with a most excellent dinner. We had venison and a magnum of
champagne. Much Jollity. Teddy full of political news: he is the cartoonist
for T.R. League and editor of the Tatler.

Christmas Day.
Margie in our room by 5. Breakfast 9 and then to Church. At 1 ,..e had lunch
with all the children and in the evening dinner with Mother at the Cottage.
It is near 35 years since the family kept such Christmas at the old house,
which in appearance is quite a Christmas Card house with its quaint court,
many gables and gothic arched pDrch and stone mullioned windows. At that time
my grandmother had always a houseful for Christmas with all the Warwicks
reinforced on the 26th with old Henry Branston and several of his family
when a concert was given in the laundry.
Sunday, 26th Dec.
To Church in the morning and after lunch Percy gave us a run in his
covere&'motor to Birklands in Sheniood Forest full of its old trees. We had
Teddy, Uuriel and myself, Margie, Polly and the 2 boys. Geoff a regular little
John Leech boy had eaten too much and was ill quite in correct Christmas fashion.
Hon. ,27th Dec.
At 10 Percy motored Muriel, Charlie, Ernest, Teddy and myself and Patrick
over to Hawton Golf Links, calling at Charlie's house 'at Farndon en route.
Thence I walked to Balderton House for lunch at William Vaniick's and we had
teaa returning at Burgage Manor. In the evening we had another large family
party. Charlie and Percy remarked on the comfort and convenience of the house
and all voted to keep Christmas in future at Epperstone which I hope will be.

Tues. ,28th Dec.

Our party began to break up. Edward left for London and at 10 Percy motored
myself, Charlie, Annie and Patrick to Nottingham in a fine touring motor.
Certainly when the family join forces we can live like millionaires. At the
Midland Station Charlie and his party picked up their horses to go hunting
ahd after Percy had finished his business we motored after them and caught
hounds up at Cotgrave \'/ood and sm'l much of the sport by O\-/thorpe. \;1e raided
Dennis Bayley's motor for lunch and enjoyed a chat with pretty Miss Catt.
Changing our motor at Nottingham we got back for tea.
\;1eds. ,29th Dec.
At 10 I rode to the meet at Sheniood Lodge. A large meet and found at Moores
Gorse but a poor scent. We found at the Bogs and Epperstone Park and then I came home.
He had the Rector and his daughter to dinner.
 .33~,
r.rhurs. ,30th De c.
Percy and his family left us and I motored to Nottingham and thence
to Allenboro to see the breach in the Trent Bank made by the flood •.~ at 2
and busy in the garden. HomL
Fri., 31st Dec.
The Leys gave a pantomime performance of Bluebeard at the Schools.
Very good and the dresses are genuine eastern ones, very fine. Edith
Francklin looked very pretty, also a Miss Gray. Margie as a fairy very
fairylike.

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