- 1 9 1 7 -

/.
I
- 1 9 17-
Weds. ,3rd January.
To the meet at Gonalston, the Seely boys, Rupert Sherbrooke and the
Player girls makigg up a field and we had quite a merry day, running about
most of the time about the Dumbles.
Margaret left us to spend some days with Muriel and Percy at Nottingham.
The new Government begins to control food and fix prices. I am well stocked
at least for 3 months except meat and milk. State control means State starvation
generally.
Sat. ,6th Jan.
To Nottingham. Frank Barker, my gardener's son, arrives from France
and the 8th Sherwoods near Gommecourt. Lunch with S. Birkin.
Sun.,7th Jan.
Trusting to the frost I cycled over the bad roads to Basford to enquire
of my old yachting friend Fowler, who is ill. I could not see him.
Tues.,9th Jan.
Rode through blinding snow showers across the hills to Hockerton to meet
the Rufford which did not turn up.
V/eds. ,10th Jan.
Rode to Newstead to meet hounds at the Pilgrim Oak, they were there but
Lord H. not coming and too much ice and snow so we came home. Saw little Rupert
Sherbrooke who joins the Canada to-day. Col. Robert S., 2nd Sherwoods, back but I
missed seeing him though I came by Bawford steps across the Bogs and the pleasure
ground to meet him. However, I saw Mrs. R. Francklin from Malta, Mrs. Jarvis and Susan (16
Thurs. ,11th Jan.
Wild weather and snow.Margie left again yesterday for Percy's in Nottingham Park.
Fri. 12th Jan.
On account of snow and ice I drove to Southwell, first to the Council and
then to Norwood Park where I was till 6 and drove home. A wild night.
Sat.,13th Jan.
To Nottingham still snowy, and going to the Land Office to see Randall
with him to meet Muriel for cmffee at the Picture House on Long Row where meeting
Harold in his naval uniform and Percy going to the theatre for tickets for the
matinee I also got one, and so to the caf~ where Muriel, Margie and her boy Geoff
and his friend Adair. The place very smart and full of pretty girls with the army
and navy officer friends. It is now the great resort of smart Nottingham, ever a
gay city, the place looks out on the great market square which is a gay scene
especially these war days: soldiers, sailors, Australians in wide brimmed hats
and pretty girls on the move among the stalls, not even London can show so gay and
diversified a throng nowadays.
" never very amusing, to Muriel's for tea and home at 7 where Margie
The Matinee
and the two boys had preceded me.
·;L.
Percy's house at North Gate to the Park standing some 12 or 14 feet above
the roadway in a garden is most pleasant and secluded from overlooking whilst
fom the garden walls we can overlook all that pass.
Sun. ,14th Jan.

To church: srrlow showers but it thm'1s away. Percy and Harold came in a motor
and fetched the children all away. Tge war is too costly to last but othervlise the
goings and comings, the weddings have given intervals of gaiety and stir which will
be much missed hereafter, also the young man is of a consequence he never enjoyed
before. For instance at l~ Patrick just now made Captain and Flight Commander of
No. 2 Squadron. Pay £2 a day or so. He and Charlie quite a merry Christmas at
Etaples. Pat took Tom Birkinr:(also R.F.C.) down to see his father, w~o getting
his motor goes ~own to Lady Greenhall at her canteen for 2 of her girls for the
2 boys, so all a merry motor ride, later at dinner where Foljambe, Gerald Clarke" and
one or two others of the old 8th.
Mon.,15th Jan.
The snow came heavier in the night but the sun coming out I walked to
Lowdham Grange enjoying the views of the valley in winter dress.
9!ues. ,16th Jan.
After writing letters two hours, to the Rectory for a chat and the Church
to admire the two windows on the south side by Gascoign, the Dufty's and our own.
After ~unch 4 companies (1000 men) of the machine gunners came through and halted
about the village, many gave tea and I brought 2 officers in. They were from Belton
yesterday and billeted for the night at East Bridgford intending to march to
Clipston but roads being bad they returned to their last night's billets at 4.
Margie in white jersey and scarlet tam with me watching them. The team mules
from the Argentine and the officers on stout cobs. Am~an to snoot with Georgie
Gibbs at Lowdham Grange.
The remainder of the week we were frost bound with keen east winds.

Thurs.,25th Jan.
To Toton and to the munition works where saw Ld. Chetwynd, Sir L. Rolleston
and Stanley Birkin and also got a permanent pass to these immense works where now
400,000 in one 8 acre shed filled ready for France.
Fri. ,26th Jan.
To Southwell to the Council which was over at 12 and then talking to Walsh,
Lord Ormanthwaite's son, who is of the L.G.B. Called on Lady Ley.
Hon. ,29th Jan •.
Walked to Lowdham Grange admiring the wide almost alpine landscape with
all the forest and tops of hills in snow. Mr. Howitt to see me on this farm matter.
Tues.,30th Jan.
To the Tribunal at Southwell and got Bell;, my cashier, an exemption from
milttary service till Oct. In the anteroom chatting with farmers and the Rector
Conybeare.
3.
Weds., 31st Jan. G-~~

To Nottingham to the gpimtho~ Bridge meeting where we declared 3%

and to the Club in the afternoon. We are how smothered by War Coamitteeand
am thankful I have a good household stores at home for whatever the government
touches becomes at once dear and scarce.
Good skating now on the flood near Lowdham Mill. Very bitter and some snow.
Thurs.,lst Feb.
Hawson of the Land Office to discuss value of Miss Ann Paget's property
for which I urge 20 years on nett rent at less 15% and shall get 22~ years.
At 11 rode to Hexgreave passing near Oxton. 2 sections of machine gunners
with numerous limbers and mules trekking from Farnsfield to E. Bridgford. Also
met Mrs. Sherbrooke and her brother Dick Francklin (gick from Salonica). At
Hexgreave a large party. Mrs. Berry just had 'a baby, Maud and Laurence, Mr.
and Mrs. W., Col. Gore, Mollie Wales, Hayward, Administrator in W. Africa, Mrs.
Bond and daughter, Rector of Eakring's wife. After lunch the Miss Wilkins.
Regret to hear coal found at Bilsthorpe.
Fri. ,2nd Feb.
To Norwood Park.
Sat. ,3rd Feb.
To Winkburn to enquire of Col. Burnell who I hear is very ill.
Tues. ,6th Feb.
Felt a slight chill and worse in evening. Lord Harrington died.
Weds. ,7th Feb.
At 12 could not pass urine. Sent for Dr. Simpson who said prostate gland
enlarged.
Thurs.8th Feb.
No relief except by artificial means.
Fri.,9th Feb.
My old friend 8th Earl of Harrington was buried but could not attend funeral.
Dr. Hogarth came and advised operation.
Sat. ,lOth Feb.
With Polly at 4 to the Nursing Home, 18 Park Row, and had a very good room.
Dose of Liquorish.
Sun. ,11th Feb.
Kept to room all day. Dr. Crooks relieved me twice.
Mon. ,12th Feb.
Operation at 10. Curious as to effect of chloroform, stopped fear.
Awoke in my room. Op took an hour. Morphia after first dressing. Awoke about 7
and clear all night, but next four days very wretched from effects of gas but
no sickness or headache.
Sat. ,17th Feb.
Felt better and had first meal of sweetbread and champagne. Must lie on
back'with great tube in my bladder but all wound healed except what is kept for
the tube. My night nurse, Mrs. Berry of Steveton Vicarage whose sister recently
married Col. Hall of Whatton. Stanley Birkin to see me. Polly comes every
afternoon. On Tues.20th the big tube removed and a small one into a bottle
pinned to my dressing. I had plenty of books and papers and my bed was put
to the window each morning so I have sun all day, but there was much snow this
month at nights. Major Robertson came to qee me.
Sat. ,3rd March.

I sat up two hours for first time and after this regularly got up for dinner.
A few days ago I had real great pain and passing hard cathetas to the bladder
but only lasted a couple of minutes, but I bled 36 hours.
Tues. ,6th Mar.
My last tube taken out and by Fri. 9th Mar. the wound had healed across.
Not during the whole time had my temperature varied from 97 to 98 and my heart
beat regularly right through. I was said to be a good dry case and since Tues.
passed urine every 3 hours and only one wet dressing. After Fri. I walked
regularly 2 hours a day and on Tues.13th Mar. had my first walk out and \'leds.,
14th Mar. to Muriel's for tea. I progressed fast and had a tumbler of champagne
each day for dinner. My program:Cup of tea at 6, relieved nature by 7. Walk at
7 and got my bed into the window. Breakfast 8 with fruit, then the morning papers
nnd a pipe. Snoozed till 11, got up and to library Burnley House for books.
Dinner 1.30 with champagne and fruit, having changed to pyjamas and then to bed
~o sleep till 4. Got up, dressed and to the County Club for tea. Back at 7 to bed,
supper and read till ready for sleep.
My own nurse, Miss Brinkman, very good. Home from Malta. Sister (Miss Laws)
very pretty, Irish, is Matron about 30 years. Nurse Livesay and Nurse Wharmby
(probationer) all good and attentive.
Thurs. ,22nd Mar.
Left hospital at 2 cured,very lucky, but Fri. ,Sat. and Sun. I took very
quietly at home, going however to see Burrows and Mrs. Dufty (94) both confined to
bedroom. .
Most men have some serious illness 55 to 65 andas ~he time approached I
wondered what form mine ~uld take and dreaded bladder trouble which was just what
came, but Hogarth said I was in a most healthy state and Dr. Laws said my eyesight
10 or 12 years better than my age of 55.
During my time in hospital my nephew Patrick came to see me. Just 20 he is
Capt, and Flight Commander and has the Cross. He has been flying in France a year and
at the end was nearly done by an "Archie" shell, shattering t\VO \'ling planes and
his petrol tank and wounding his observer. He fell from 12000 feet but just managed
to get his machine in controll and land in our lines. He is now to go to Hounslow
to teabh flying. Ernest also got,leave 10 days after the capture of Gommecourt,
being very tired and I saw him several times.
5".
Fri., 23rd Har.
Rose late but after writing letters to see old Burrows (8') who is in his
last illness I fear and after tea to see Hrs. Dufty (94) who is also in nurses'
charge, and to see Hother.
Sat. ,24th Hnr.
Spent much as yesterday, and also Sunday.
Hon. ,26th Har.
Drove to Oxton and tea with Hrs. Sherbrooke.
Tues. ,27th Har.
Spent quietly at home but I am well again I am thankful to say •.
\~eds. ,28th Har.
Remembered just in time I was to take the chair at the Thornton's Society
meeting at Nottingham at 3 and read a paper on old times in Epperstone.
Thurs. ,29th Har.
At home, calling as I do much now to see old Hr. Burrows or the Rector
Fri. ,30th Har.
A great deal of frost and snow all this time.
Sat. ,31st Mar.
Drove to Winkburn and a long talk with old Colonel Burnell Vho is still in
bed, a dear old man and it so reminded me of pictures of Don Quixote. Had tea
with Miss Burnell in the large diningroom. Besides fine portraits there is a fine
mantel in the style of Grinling Gibbons, the house being of Queen Anne's time
and built by a Burnell.
Sun. ,1st Apr.
Snow but to church where the Bishop preached on the unveiling of the Ley
tablets. Sir Gordon Ley to see me this afternoon. He wants to sell the Manor.
Mon. ,2nd Apr.
Having snow at 6 till 10 did not go out.
Tues. ,3rd Apr.
V By train to Toton and at 2 to the Club where I had a long talk with Lord
Han~ers, also Archdeacon Hacking who has just had similar "Op" to mine. At the
train met Chesterman who was Sergt. in the 8th Sherwoods in my time and a most
excellent fellow who is now Lieut. and congratulated him heartily on it.
\'leds. ,4th Apr.
At home rather feeling yesterday's exertions.
Thurs. ,5th Apr.
At 2 drove to NO~lood Park and with Capt. Starkey to Gold Hill where I
went to see Elvidge and settle his account. Tea after at the Hall.
Fri., 6th Apr.
Some snow in the night so stayed in bed till near 12 and then to complete
some accounts before leaving for Lichfield tomor~ow. Hear Brigadier Col. Shipley

j.
of the North Midland T.M. promoted Major General and is at Malta. Brigadier
Agar succeeding him. I shall know few of our old brigade on their return.
Sat. ,.7th Apr.
Margie and I left at 10 for Lichfield to stay with my old friends Mrs.
R. Tgorpe and the Charnwoods. Getting out at Trent Valley Station the carriage
met us and we drove 1 mile to Stowe House whence across the Pool is a charming
view of the Cathedral. The Charnwoods have 4 children, John and Antonia being
about Margie's age.
Easter Sunday, 8th Apr.
The family and Margie to early service at St. Chad's close by and in
the morning to the Cathedral. John and I in the stalls, Ld. C.with Mayor and
Corporation.
Easter Mon.,9th Apr.
Trusting in my weather luck Lady C. and I in the Victoria and the children
in the pony chaise drove to Elford Church to see the tombs but several violent
lambing storms. The altar tombs of Ardernes and Stanleys very fine of marble and
alabaster, 15th or 14th century. I walked with C. to the town and called on the
Bishop of Stafford whose daughters were at Stowe. At tea a party of friends,
the children very merry in the billiard room, the ball room not being much used
now. My bedroom is in this ball room wing and looks out south over a paved garden
court.
Tues. ,10th Apr.
In the market?Lady C., I and the children to Lichfield and I took the children
over the Cathedral. The fine Flemish glass windows (2 Spanish) I recognised the
arms of Count Horn, as in my pictures of the windows of St. Jacques at Liege.
The verger is now Mayor of the Town. The children interested in the gruesome
monument of a half decayed corpse in the north transept. Margie and I then to
Dr. Johnson's House.
Weds. ,11th Apr.
Margie and I left at 11 and home at 2. A heavy snowstorm in the evening.
Since Saturday we started our ne\"[ "summer time", i.e. an hour set forward.
Thurs. ,12th Apr.
To Nottingham and met Major Robertson ad the Club, and on to Beeston to
see Piggins House as to repairs. Edmund Percy had it in my young days: then to
call on Miss Percy at the Manor House. At the Club for tea where myoId friends
Mellish and Foljambe, Dr. Hogarth, Ld. Galway.
Fri. ,13th Apr.
My 55th birthday and in the house I was born in. My family forgot it till the
evening. To Widmerpool and lunched with the ~ajor who sent me back to Nottingham
in his motor car.
Sat.14th Apr.
At home all day rather tired. The Manor is sold to Stanley Bourne (£20,500),
son of Rector Champneys.old friend.
1· Hon. ,16th Apr. /r/1-
To Southwell fair and then to Winkburn to see Col. Burnell. Very cold.
Tues.,17th Apr.
To Oxton and meeting Richard Francklin round his new house.
\~eds. ,18th Apr.
To Stanley Birkins at Mapperley to lunch where also Sir Harvey Bruce of
Clifton whose mother was sister of Sir Robert Clifton,_ an ancient and historical
family in Notts.
Thurs.,19th Apr.
Called on Lady Ley on her return, says the snow lies deep on the hills
in Yorkshire.
Fri.,20th Apr.
To the Council at Southwell the first time since my operation. We are
to make a return of all our horses, cattle and implements. What for? We shall
be controlled to famine I expect.
\~alked to Halam and back to Norwood for tea with the Starkeys. Capt. S.
our member is willing to continu~.
Sat.,2lst Apr.
All the flour mills to be "controlled" - the business men are being driven
\·dld by "control". The country more likely to be disorganised than "organisedll
by the Whitehall boobies.
In the afternoon walked to Woodbro Hall but Hill being away over the Hill
to Calverton to see Frank Smith home on sick leave from Nigeria. He watching the footba:
I see Sergt.Smith of myoId company and chat with sundry, back to tea with Miss Smith
(over 20 years ago we had a merry dance here, the· father being the Vicar then).
Coming in I looked in at the beuatiful church of Woodbro. How the memorial windows
~ecall all the worthies of the later 19th century in the ,place.

Sun. ,22nd Apr.

Hedges and trees still as naked as in January, never recollect so late
a season. To enquire of Edward Francklin who is ill and tea at the Huntsman's
Lodge \'dth the DO\'1ager Mrs. Francklin where her daughter Mrs. NaIl, whose husband's
double battery is in France, and next to Col. Hugh Sherbrooke's. It is said the
shipping difficulty is great and the Germans mined the Mersey. A No~~egian ship
is suspected as the intermediary.
Mon. ,23rd Apr.
Walked with Percy for tea at the Pearsons.
Tues. ,24th Apr.
My nephew Geoffrey has been staying with us. In the evening drove all round
by Hexgreave, Osmanthorpe, Halam.
8.
Weds. ,25th Apr.
The country still bare of leaf even the hedges no blossom. At 11.30 to
Newark to meet Mr. Joseph Branston who at 80 is bicycling. Lean, straight
and handsome. Then to Warwick's brm.,.ery and sm.,. Arthur and Charles Richardson
and cycled out to Balderton Hall for lunch with Cousin Emily now close on 70
\'lho told me how she and \1illiam \.,.ere at Hamburg and Ems in the llseventiesll ,
(at Ems 'in '70, two weeks before the War) and often saw the Emperor William,
Bismark, Falkenhayn and Molthe, all of whom she mimicked to the life, being
so good at that, as was also her fath~r Henry Branston of the Friary at Newark.
Cycled back to Newark and called for Annie at the V.A.D.Depot over Cherrington's
shop in the market place and took her to tea at Oldhams. By order now only two small
pieces of bread and butter and a small cake can be served. The Town full up with
Royal Engineers 5000.
Thurs.,26th Apr.
To Nottingham at 11 and party motored out to Langar Hall (Muriel's place)
where we spent a pleasant day. Dennis Bayley has put in a fine window painted in
the church.
Fri.,27th Apr.
Spent in Epperstone with the Leys and Rector's audit and tea at the Rectory.
Sat. , 28-eh Apr.
To Notting~am for the Court of Sewers. The German prisoners planting
potatoes in the Vale of Evesham cut out all the eyes.
Lunched with Percy till he and Geoff motored out to Langar for the weekend,
so to the County Club. The Manor sold to Stanley Bourne whose family and my
wife's had long been friends. This is the second time I have sold the place to
which I was born the heir. The prettiest place in tpis county.
Sun.",29th Apr.
After Church walking with Lady Ley talking of the food problem and in the
evening to call on Mr. Browne. Saw the'first swallow.
Tues.lst May.
To Hinckley. But the trains now are so few and run so slow that starting
at 10 we did not get there till 1 and did not get back til19.30. Belt:took the
audit and I walked to Wyken and after met Pickering about Trinity Church land.
\-leds. ,2nd May.
To Nottingham and lunched at the Club where" a large gathering. Lords Gal\.,.ay
and Man~rs, Colonels Foljambe, Mellish, Leslie Birkin, Donajowski, Sirs Ernest Paget
and Harvey Bruce, Major Fellowes, Morse, Copnall, etc.
Thurs. ,3rd May.
By early train to Derby and motored out to Osmaston Manor to meet the Agent.
Fri.,4th May.
To Widmerpool and lunched at the Hall and after seeing Elnor at the North
Farm cycled to Nottingham.
9~ah-i5th May. ut /1'
. To Nottingham to see Sir T. Birkin. He has lost a lace factory in vlarsa\'l
ana.rone.in Savony and altogether a million by the War.
Sun. ,6th Hay.
To Gonalston for tea.
Hon. ,7th May.
Drove to Graves Lane and walked across to Riddings Farm and back by the
Pudding Bag.
\'leds. ,9th May.
To Nottingham in the afternoon. Saw Bercy. Still cold.
Thurs. ,10th May.
Drove to Winkburn to see the Colonel. Spring corn most promising and some
showers.
Fri. ,11th Hay.
Really Spring at last after a most surprising winter since November of
snow, frost, rain and cold. With Margie and Polly to Gonalston and I to Howager's
to tea where Mrs. Philip Francklin (widow of Capt. P of the Good Hope) now engaged
to Admiral Brock, chief of staff of the Grand Fleet, a pretty woman, very fair.
Mrs. Sherbrooke and Mrs. NaIl and all most pesimistic about the \'lar, which goes
ill except in France, Russia and Italy have not fought for months~ U-boats
sink our ships 50 a week and now our rations allow no oats for horses and racing
stopped.
Sat. ,12th May.
To Nottingham ahd Stanley Birkin asked me to lunch where Mr. Tarring of the
Sh~ll Factor, Sir Harvey Bruce and Cecil Willoughby. And to tea Douglas Vickers
(of Vickers Haxims, the great gun makers and submarines), the Hon. Hrs. Vickers
(Hrs. Birkins' sister), and all very merry. Birkin told me he must retrench and
this family the \'lealthiest in Nottingham.
Sun. ,13th Hay.
The weather is magnificent. After Church Polly and Margie and I with Lady
Ley and Miss Mar\'lood to the Hanor garden. This is one of the preetiest places in
Notts. and except the Lower lawn and the library wing was the creation of my
grandfather, and until I was 32 the residence of my father. Now sold to Bourne.
Lady Ley said orders were no ornamental grounds to be tended by men. Looked in
. to see my Hother on returning.
Hon. ,14th Hay.
To Derby and met Ogden whom I had engaged for work at Osmaston and by car
to that place, meeting the Farm Ste\'lard Hr. Hall and back early.
fues. ,15th May.
IbDrove to Oxton.
\veds. ,~th May.
To Nottingham St. Hary's church cited thereto for admission as churchwarden.
 ,:':?:ura,..,17th' May. ".
To Nottingham with money, my season ticket saving me much expense now
.. ~ailway fares increased 50';G
Fri. ,18th May.
Drove to Brackenhurst and walked on to Southwell for the Council. Had
dinner with the Tribunal before whom I appeared to get off the Winkburn Farm
Steward. Talking to General Watson there in command at Clipstone. Walked on
to Norwood Park for tea with the Starkeys, where Knight and the dog cart met me.

Sat. ,19th 'May.

To Nottingham. Annie came to stay weekend.
Mon. ,21st May.
To Nottingham for meeting of Thornton Society and Bradwell's after to
get Elnor to give up his arable land. Agricultural War Committees· formed in
all counties to speed up the plough.
Tues. ,22nd May.
By train to Ashbourne and took the motor bus to Osmaston and sawOgden,
with whom I lunched, and at 3 by motor bus to Derby.
}feds. ,23rd May.
To Newark at 12 and thence to Peterbro. Having an hour to spare to the
Cathedral, the Close heavy with perfume of lilac and mountain ash. At Yaxley
drove to my Inn at Norman Cross. The weather of May with timely showers and
sun has benefitted crops, blossom is superb and we are little behind now.
Walked to Stilton in the evening, a pretty village, showing in places ~rench
influence in houses from the War prisoners 120 years ago, many of whom settled
here afte~iards. The Rector Archer has lost his only son and our Emily her brother.
Thurs. ,24th May.
A Zep raid in Norfolk last night and I possibly heard one being waked at
one by noise I thought wind. Driving with Gee around the estate and at 3 to the
Fox at Folksworth for the Cottagers audit. Gossiping Mrs. Freeman giving me
excellent tea. Motor transports, "Archibald" guns, etc. keep passing my Inn.
Fri.,25th Hay.
Drove to Stilton and at 1 the audit and dinnerat Norman Cross and so home
being met at Netherfield.
Sat. ,26th May.
To Nottingham in carriage with money for the Bank, and out at 2 with a
large party of S. Shffords and to Simpsons to practise bowls. Edith Champneys
came from Hereford, 100Y~ng well in her Chief Constable (Munition Works) uniform.
Madge is also there as girls constable.
~lhi t Sunday, 27th Hay.
To 8 o'clock service, the weather perfect. News of a serious air raid by day
at Folkestone and 147 casualties.
II ·
i~thiit Monday, 28th May.
l

. No Club dinner at the Cross Keys which has had till now an unbroken record
.1's"ince 1839 and with the Band and visiting the principal houses in the evening
to dance on .the mown lawns made quite a fete in times past. I commented to Mrs.
Dean the post mistress the absence of the Club flag one quite felt.
Cycled to Nottingham to the Welbeck Hotel where Bourne?gave the Southwell
Council Bowls Team lunch and after I strolled to the Red Cross Fair in the
market place, where Duchesses and Countesses kept stalls: but it lacked the
roisterous fun of a Goose Fair.
At 3.30 our matches on the Forest Bowling Greens began. Bourne' Collins,
the Master of the Workhouse, and I were one team against the Mayor of Mansfield's
and though lost we had an excellent game. Tea at the Club where Capt. Wade Dalton
who is Forests Officer for the Government as all our timber it is possible to
commandeer.
Cycled back by the Plains, a most perfect evening and many walking here to
enjoy the views - 20 years ago I remember the most deserted highway in Notts.,
not more than 4 houses between the brickyards and Woodbro village.
Tues. ,29th Hay.
Edith Champneys left to-day and I spent at home as the effect of my operation
makes it advisable to rest every other day if possible, so about the village
talking to the Rector and Burrows, etc.
\~eds.,30th May.
By early train to Ashbourne and so by motorbus to Osmaston Hanor and with
Ogden walked across the Park to MYaston and so back to Osmaston village for lunch.
Missing the agent, Hajor Hardinge, I boarded the motor coach near Ednaston and so
for Derby meeting Charles Hill at Trent he motored me from Nottingham to
Epperstone. He from Leeds had to stand up in the carriage most of the way,
the Companies are seeing how much the public will stand for, there is no real need to
run the trains with so few carriages.
Thurs.i'lst May.
Except a drive to see Mrs. Sherbrooke at home all day.
EIU,., 1st June.
Cycled to the Council at Southwell to consider appointing our officers as
spies to report disobedience to "Orders" so an era of prosecutions is in vie\'i.
'rhence to the Crown where Hrs. Kent and Bel:r\'iere and held Capt. Starkey's audit
and after a good tea at 4 went on to Norwood Park to talk with S. on what grass to
offer for the wild "Ploughing Order" - a physical impossibility to comply with
and which wire worm would destroy the emergency crops, but in fact our conduct
of affairs is always either absolute neglect of ordinary precautions or wild and
extravagant efforts.
Sat., 2nd June.
Spent at home, fine morning but heavy rain in evening, so busy trimming
grapes.
Sun.,3rd June.
A pleasant morning, the Bournes at the Manor for the weekend, a place I
was born heir to and for 31 years my home, but I can't complain of my pleasant
demesne and house which was our original house here.
The oak is now in full leaf arid ash following suit. Chesnut, lilac, lab~urnams in
full bloom and much may flower, a very promising season.
Mon.,~th June. R.~~
The Spring in all its glory. I drove to RaiR~Qa1e Park along the hills
with wide views on every side and in the valley the villages of Epperstone and
Woodbro nestling in orchards about their churches. The tower and spire of
Epperstone shooting high on its knoll in the middle of the Dovie Beck valley.
I had been up our church tower in the morning with the Rector who said the
landscapes were like Claud Lorraine's.
Tues. ,5th June.
To Nottingham but missing Major Robertson at the Club. With Stanley Birkin
to Attenbro and dO\in the Trent banks and back by the shell factory. The young
ladies at the canteen there have one of the pretty villas at Attenboro taken
for them \'iith a good garden and Lord Chetwynd has named it lIDuxhavenll •
\-Jeds.,6th June.
To the Black Boy for the Toton Audit.
Thurs.,7th June.
Heavy rain till I reached Ashbourne when it cleared as I went to Osmaston
and came to the Inn. I got back by motor coach to Derby. Pearson of the Chilwell
Foundry was in London yesterday and comments on the wild extravagance and confusion
of Government Departments and the numerous futile conferences which are picnic days
for officials. He going to Birmingham to attend one today.
Fri.,8th June.
To Oxton to the audit and a cold dinner to greedy little Wain's disgust.
Sat.,9th June.
To the Income Tax Commissioners Meeting at 11, sitting with G.Fellowes.
At 12 to the church cemetery, Col.Thacker\'iray being buried to-day aged 73, an
old Balkan War Veteran. Going dotin the Long Walk to the chapel I met Mrs.
Fisher, his sister. She had no idea before the Colonel was married. His widow,
a ladylike woman of 40 and 2 children, girl and boy nice looking. Clarke,Wright,
Sir Norton Hicking, S. Birkin and many others there.
Going back to my dentist I met Hrs. Player selling flags and had a chat
with her, regretting her husband had built at Brailsford and had not waited for
the Manor.
At the Club for lunch met many. The War Committee had had the Widmerpool
tenants enquiring as to rabbits. ~
At 3 home and drove with Polly for tea at Hexgreave where Laurence Wilson
lay \'iith compound fracture of the thigh. Mrs. Tom Lambert and daughter staying
there. Drove my new purchase of Leys.
I 3«
Sun.,lOth June.
The Bournes came to church. I to Gonalston Hall for tea.
Mon. 11th June.
To Ruddington for the audit and leaving Mrs. Kent and BeIf' at the Inn
to do business I went a long walk through the meadows. Our audit dinner cost us
6/6 each as against 3/6 pre war dinner. Called on Mrs. Wrey Hunt for tea.
Tues.!l:2th June.
To Nottingham for my dentist and lunched with Percy.
\;Teds.,13th June.
To the Black Boy at Nottingham for the Widmerpool audit and Bel~afte~vards
to his drills as a Volunteer, which force is revived and numbers about 160,000. ~
At Nottingham there are military hospitals and the General Hospital and El~th~~
and convalescent homes at Mapperley Hall. The Bayley opposite the Territorial H.Q.' ~
hall, the Bowden so blue with scarlet tie men are thronging the streets. ~

Thurs.,14th June. ~
A party of soldiers drove over for tea recovering from wounds among whom
Smith of Epperstone. They played bowls and tennis.
Fri.,15th June.
To the Council at Southwell and lunched with Canon Glaister.
Sat. ,16th June.
To my dentist at Nottingham.
Sun.,17th June.
Lazy at home.
Mon. ,18th June.
Drove to \vinkburn for the audit and after had a long talk with Colonel
Burnell and drove home late. The dear old Colonel in bed in patched gown
looked like a picture of Don Quixote.
Tues. ,19th JUEn
Drove with Polly to Hexgreave for lunch and after with the Wilsons met the
Committee to discuss what grass to plough for corn. Just as we left Lord Douro came
in, who lacks the distinguished look of his great grandfather but a pleasant looking
man. Knight met us and at Calverton I took my bicycle on to R~dale Park
for tea and came back by Woodbro, the whole 5 miles being a dovn£vard slope and
the evening lovely.
\veds. ,20th June.

Last night rain. \;Te have had perfect weather and very hot all June.
To Newark at 12 to the Clinton Arms to meet tenants. Newark very gay with its
market day and crowds of soldiers. The Chantry is Officers Quarters, the old
Grammar School orderly room and besides the hut camp on the Sconce Hills. Kelham
and Loddington Halls are turned into Barracks. I saw Annie at work at the Red
Cross Depot overlooking the market place where also Mrs. Starkey, Mrs. McCrae
and Lady Masham.
TRurs.,21st June.
Lost my early train for Derby so later to Nottingham and Toton and having
occasion to go to the munition works saw Lord Chet\iYnd its creator and director. Oct.
1915 it was fields, Oct.1916 I stood in a shed of 9 acres with i million shells on
the floor and since it has exceeded over i million, the shells leaving for France
at thousands an hour.
Talking to an Irish Surgeon Colonel at the Club, very Irish home ruler.
I objected to his talking of English government seeing that every official there
is Irish - no English need apply. But I daresay they have "Castle Rue" as we
now have "Whitehall Rule" \V'hich mismanages everything. We are nmV' running at
8 million pounds a day cost. It must bankrupt us.
Fri. ,22nd June.
We hasten towards winter and to-day was cold, a severe change. Yesterday at
Nottingham I saw Davenport of the 8th who was with me when organising our
Transport in Aug. 1914, now a staff Captain and at Fe1ixstowe. For the first
time since my operation I rode. To Riddings farm by Combes Wood. Robbers Dane
is nearly grown over. I came back by Harts Well. Mrs. Arnold, the Calverton
Vicar's wife, walked over for tea and Percy brought a patty of wounded'soldiers.
Sat., 23rd June.
Cold and dull. I did not go to Nottingham as usual but wrote letters all
morning until I walked round to see my cottage newly painted. Mrs. and Miss
Pearson to tea.
Sun. ,24th June.
To Church in the morning. Rain later.
Tues. ,26th Une.
By early train to Ashbourne travelling with Major Payne from Nottingham.
At Ashbourne I took the motor bus to Osmaston Lane and spent some time with Ogden
at the Manor Office examining his terrier he is preparing and got by motor bus
to Derby and so to Nottingham to the Club and so home.
vleds. ,27th June
To Nottingham to the Thornton Society's Committee at Bromley House, where
we have a finely decorated panelled room in this fine old Queen Anne Town house,
a relic of bygone Notts. fashion. After ~ing to see Sir T. Birkin to the Club
where I had much talk with Col. Fo1jambe on the 8th S.F.
Thurs.,28th June.
Rode to Langar Hall getting well wet especially marking trees for felling
but got home for tea where at lunch and tea a party that reminded me of pre-war
days. Muriel, who brought Margie home by motor, Mrs. Bourne and Major Pat Ashwell
who had been wounded in a hair breadth of being killed, a shell piece having
pierced his skull in his forehead. We had a str4~erry and cream tea. Later
motored up Annie and Col. Charles for dinner. Charlie is commandant of a camp
at Etaples, says the Portuguese not reliable troops and the Australians though
good fighters very undisciplined.
Fri. ,29th Rune.
Rode to the Council at 90uthwe11 and Mhad dinner after with the Military Appeal
Tribunal. Riding on after to Norwood I just caught Starkey before he left for
Blidworth and spent an hour with. The Constituency to be enlarged with all the
 LPj/{/
villages of the Southwell Rural Union not now in it but in Retford, and Bassetlaw
and the large forest village of Blidworth so that what the Jew Moreton Mandevil
(Hoses Heinman who once contested it) called the "\'lilds of the~el;lark Division" ?r ,\
will be wider and wilder, stretching from Pecklethorpe and Tho~by in the north,~h~&Y)
8 miles from Worlrnop, to Hickling on the southern borders of the county 10 miles
from Melton, about 40 miles.
Sat., 30th June.
At 1 with Hargie to Nottingham and after some business joined her at the Tennis
Club in the Park.
Sun. ,1st July.
Muriel motored over at 5 bringing Major Ashwell and Capt. and Hrs. Gelaghtly,
he Brigade Major to General Watson at Clipston. To see Mr. Browne who has a serious
operation in view.
Hon., 2nd July.
A perfect summer day. I called for Lee the builder at Southwell and drove to
Halam to look at repairs done and so on to new hall on the hill top where a wide
view all up and down the Vale with fine woods all now doomed to fall at the order
of the Mesopotamiacs of vnutehall~. RUfford afar off, the Brails, Winkburn, Kirklington
and Coombes.
Tues., 3rd July.
I took a flying visit to Toton.
iveds. ,4th July.
Early to Ashbourne and left my bag at the Green Man and then by 10.45 motor bus
to Osmaston. Returning to tea at my Inn, where most excellent tea, I saw the muster
of children in the market place, it being Baby Show Week all over the country.
I then \;lalked 2 miles out to Okeover. I am positive Ashbourne is the "Lambton"
in Miss Austin's Pride and Prejudice, and Okeover is Pemberley and well deserves
its term of "elegance", built at the end of the 17th century \.,.ith 18th century
wing and stables like a palace of George I's time in brick and stone, a wide
varied wooded park with deer, the River Dove in front and a coombe to the west
~ with what was evidently at one time a prepared water course through which Elizabeth
~ ~ and her party walked. Ne~e has a milk factory at Ashbourne, built before
. the war it is conjectured by Germans, and there is suspicion profits find their
way to Berlin•. I had an excellent cold dinner at my inn with half bottle of white
wine and afterwards strolled about the town, mostly one short wide street with fine
old 17th and 18th century houses, no doubt once the homes of Hrs. Gardiner's friends;
the magnificent church has the Chapel of the Boothby's full of monume~s from
mediaeval knights to Chantry's incomparable sleeping girl Penelope Boothby. Their
hall at the east end of the street is now derelict, the timber all cut down.
Dr. Johnson stayed at my Inn on his visit here. Jane's book describes in 1796 but
Thomson's illustrations are 10 years later in costume.
Thurs.,5th July.
Left Ashbourne at 9, a perfect dsy, and to Osmaston where I finished my work
and left Ogden to follow later at 1.30 and 60 home by road to Derby.
/10. .
Fri.,6th July.
Margie's 16th birthday and she is sho\in above next me with her Aunt Muriel
and the party of wounded soldiers from the Bayley Hospital who came to keep it.
She had many presents and her Mummie and I £16. Bowles, Tennis and a strawberry
tea. At one year M. al\-lays asked for "tmvs" and has remained devoted to that
fruit. We lived at what is now Mr. Browne l s cottage, then an 8 years after
very happy, a pretty little place and for its size most convenient.
Sat.,7th July.
To lunch with the Birkins at Park House, the first time since they lost
their eldest flying in France.
Sun. ,8th July.
B~ha-:J
At home, to the Bonrne's at the Manor after church. Mr. Ja.riwbe ~ a
/\
serious operation¥.o~.
Mon. ,.9th July.
Got into uniform and rode in the still evening across the upland bridle
road to Southwell, first to Browne l s house (formerly Admiral Pelham Clays)
he had called a Volunteer recruiting meeting, at the Assembly Rooms (the place
fmr balls and concerts since Byron's day here) and made a short speech. Browne
was in the Chair, Sir Launcelot Rolleston, the Bishop, Canon Hacking, Col. F.E.
Seely, Gervase Milward (Adjutant) and self on the platform.
Tues. ,10th July.
Cycled to Bingham and by train to Stathem and then to see the Ironstone
workings at Eaton.
\'1eds.,llth July.
To Nottingham. Tea at Tennis Club with Margie.
Thurs. ,12th July.
By train to Widmerpool, cycled all way home. Lunched at the Hall. Coming
back turned aside mn to Colwick village several buildings of which were erected
by my grandfather and saw Oldershaw's dairy farm.
Fri.,13th July.
Cycled to Southwell to the Council and dined with the Tribunal
and after looking round the Cathedral on to Norwood to see Capt. Starkey just
home from Parliament duties and the debate on the lIMesspot" business.
Sat.,14th July.
To the Court of Sewers and it seems likely we shall get German Prisoners
to clear out the various Car (bog) Dykes about, estimated to cost 1/- per acre
land affected. Lunched at the Club and to see Mr. Bro~at the Nursing Home
in Park Row where I was last March and found him getting on well.
Sun.15th July.
Gerald Clarke of the 8th Sherwoods to midday dinner, he joined about my last
year and went out with Charlie and was his adjutant at Etaples and is now D.A.Q.M.G.
at A/miens, age about 27, a very tall dark man.
Mon.,lbth July.
At home all day writing many letters.
Tues.17th July •.
To Gonalston to see Edward Francklin on Tribunal matters and sat with
him some time on the terrace watching 2 large. aeroplanes manoeuvr!?$ over}the
Trent. In the afternoon Polly, Margie and I to tea with Mrs. Duft~~1~er
grand-daughter Vi Brett. The all lady remembers the days before railvmys and
now sees men flying. The house built 1830 very simple and substantial but thoroughly good
with a good doric portico, green Westmorland slates and stabling round the court for
6 horses as in those days guests had to be stabled, the furniture and everything cpoke
of the days when Leech was drawing pictures for Handley Cross.
\·leds. ,18th July.
Several hours good rain in this up to date perfect summer.
Thurs.19th July.
Hot again and to Nottingham walking back by the field way by Lowdham church.
Fri. ,20th July.
Margie leaves for Dartmouth College to stay with her Uncle Harold there and
Polly goes with her to Bristol and then off to stay with the Spencers at Clifford.
I later to Toton and to the Club for tea.
Sat., 21st July.
Again to Nottingham and lunched at the Club with Dr. Willoughby.
Sun. ,22nd July •.
To lunch at the Rectory, walking in that delightful garden between church
and lunch.
Mon.,23rd July,
Our old friend Mrs. Hodgson Wilson had died last Thursday so to her funeral
at Farnsfield. All her children there except Flying Sugden a prisoner in Germany.
Lanrence (R.F.A.) John (R.H.A.) who had leave from France. Arnold, Mrs. Berry
and Maude. Berry who is Major now. His Colonel Gifford there also Lord Douro,
Miss Wilson sister of the widdower, asked me to go back to Hexgreave, the family
would like it. Touched with this feeling of intimacy and did so.
Tues. ,24th July.
Harshall came in his motor and so to Halam and Revlhall arranging sale of
larch, etc. to him. The view from Newhall this fine hazy morning delightful.
Weds.,25th July.
In the evening to Arnold to appeal before the Tribunal for Martin the Farm
Bailiff at Ra~~dale being taken for the army. James Cowing there and said how
lucky for Sir 6harles vlith nearly 3000 acres of farms and £20,000 of capital
invested the riSe in prices was.
Thurs.,26th July.
Drove to Winkburn to see Colonel Burnell. I went round to see the almost derelict
Park Spring Farm where I came across a man collecting herbs, and learnt more of herbs
than I knew before. Each country grows its own medicines and we have neglected ours and
relied on Germany - now a great demand for English herbs. Returning to a Volunteer
recruiting meeting at Southwell new drill hall.
Ig .
Fri.,27th July.
To the Southwell Council, a jovial dinner at 1 with the Tribunal and then on
to NOrvlood Park with Starkey and the War Agricultural Committee's surveyor,Lewis,
and Blathe~~ick over his farm-round the Hall.
Sat.,28th July.
Lunched with Percy at North Lodge, Nottingham Park and to the cinema in Long
Ro\'1. Rain.
Sun. ,29th July.
To Church.
Mon.,30th July.
To Nottingham to meet Polly returning from Clifford Priory in Herefordshire
where many pleasant visits especially that when Percy motored me over in the Spring
of 1914.
Tues.,31st July.
Fine day and motored with Skarshall the Lenton Timber Merchant to look
at beech at Norwood Park.

\'leds. ,1st Aug.

Heavy rain which will do good but spoils our offensive in Flanders.
School Managers meeting at Burrows at 6 where Johnty Hurt on leave from France.
Thurs., 2nd Aug.
Dull and driving "Scotch" rain but rode as far as Newstead, 10 miles,
through the forest to see the girl timber fellers. They have the pretty
keepers lodge in a glade. So on to the Abbey now leased to Lady Markham and
looked at the Japanese garden.
Fri. ,3rd Aug.
Drove Polly to Bleasby to call on Ward, the new Vicar, and tea at the
Hall with the Kelhams.
Sat., ~4th Aug.
To Nottingham and met Aubrey Hickham, Seely's brother-in-la\~, and lunched
with him at the Victoria Hotel, where also Dennis-Bailey. W. saw much of Asquith
when staying at Brooke, r. of W., who expressed himself that no decision in the war
could be expected in the Field: but one side would sue for Peace. Hence, I suppose
"vlait and See". The Debacle in Russia defers any decision but both our governments
wew{ and wobbly, cringing to the disloyal and truculent to the staunch.
We now enter the 4th year of War. Personally in a wonderful manner my life has
/ been that of the 23rd Psalm, even including the Valley of the Shadow last February,
,and seeing that up to 40 financial ruin ever impended, although in spite of it I had
Ca real good time, hunting, yachting, soldiering. ~'1ice have I sold the Manor to
which I was born heir: but my pretty house and demesne is a good retreat and our
family home since 1843. Abbotts sent me £180 my share of commission on sale from
Sir Gordon Ley to Bourne. Bourne ordered a tenant's pretty daughter out of his Park ~­
these commercialists require so~e 2 or 3 generations before they are decent landowners.
Just contrast the Oxton and Gonalston-Lordships where Sherbrookes and Frnacklins have
ruled 4 uenturies, everyone feels he has and indeed has an interest in the estate.
However,Bournes action puts him out of the running to be de facto Lord of Epperstone
of which I have ever had an undisputed sovereignty, thalli{s a good deal to Polly also.
 Sun. ,5th Aug.·
Walking to church met Elwyn who has bought most of the uplands above the
village.
Mon. ,6thUAug. Bank Holiday.
Polly and I to the Hill Farm to call on Mrs. Elwyn who was not in.
Weds. ,8th Aug.
To Nottingham Victoria Stn. and met Mr. Kay about the Flimby Coal Leas~.
To the Club.
Thurs.,9th Aug. R~~
Riding over Woodbro Park and so on to ~aineaale but find Frank Seely
and his children just after duck at Salterford dam. As I passed Woodbro
Netherhall a flock of wild geese flew over.
Fri.,lOth Aug.
Rode to Southwell by bridleways and got put on the Food Control Committee
just set up, our district is 60,000 acres in extent. I had lunch with Simpson
and Straw at the Rodney and stood a bottle of Motlr & Chandon: then on to Norwood
Park to see our member Starkey and tea with him.
Sat. ,11th Aug.
~Idid not go to Nottingham as usual but rode by the wild Spindle Lane
to Ra~sdaleHall for Frank Seely and then on to see the damaged barn at Poole's
farm~ThYnderstorm in the afternoon which have been numerous lately with very
sunny intervals.
Sun.,12th Aug •.
I went to Gonalston Hall for tea. Edward not well, his wife and the pretty
little girls there. Looked at his collection of Leech's large coloured prints
which memorialises his pretty aunts Mrs. Hole and Mrs. Atkins and Hugh Hole.
In the"Frolee Homel! many local characters are shown, the late Squire, John L.
Francklin as a young man in the foreground raises his hand in halloa. The Revd.
Hole, after Dean, is taking the rails and John Chaworth Musters and others.
"Now Miss Ellen" is Hrs. Hole and the old coachman then at the Francklins in
the elaborate livery of that day.
Mon. ,13th Aug •
. ~tarted at 11 and riding all day till 7.30 quite a perfect day, I followed
the large pastures of Oxton with their patches of natural forest through wild
Graves Lane, Edingley to Hexgreave where the family all gone to Scarbro, so on
to Bilsthorpe Rectory where myoId tenants of my house have taken half the house
for the autumn. Mrs. R. and Eva down from London. The Rector has the east wing
for it is a large house dividing itself into two complete houses at will. The
Rector came into tea with us. I have not been here for 37 years when I lunched
with the Garrods and my grandfather. The pretty little church and yard is opposite
the Hall door and beyond the Manor farm buildings follow the lines of the hill fort
that once was here, one of a line along this scarp overlooking the Forest. The views
are lovely and much woodland both near to the Rufford and Birklands. Mrs. R. still
a fine woman and was a beauty. I rode home my wild field way by Coombes Wood.
Harold and Hargaret had arrived from Dartmouth before I was in. Harold is Fleet
Surgeon at the College and M. has had the time of her life.
"- O.
Tues. ,14th Aug.
Dick came from London.
\'leds. ,15th Aug •
. Started early riding by the bridle way to Southwell and Winkburn and on
entering the Park turned off by Roe Wood, orchard wood to Dilliner Wood, all
wild country and so down the valley calling at Dilliner Farm, the Home Farm and
the Moor and others across the fields near Hockerton from which the church
looks snug by Cork Hill across the Greet to Maythorn Mill. It is an old cotton
and silk mill of modest size built about 120 years ago, nearly surrounded by
water, the cottages in the basement and the proprietor's (Mr. Allcroft) house
adjoining. Mr. A. showed me over, it was twisting silk into threads. Thence
over the hills home, where I find Mrs. Richardson, Eva, Revd. Brodison from
Bilsthorpe and R. shortly joined us. Miss Pearson and Miss Browne and tennis
going on.
Thurs. ,16th Aug.
Percy motoring over for lunch carried Dick off to Langar Hall where his
family now are for a time.
Fri.,17th Aug.
It was so wet our projected drive to Langar was given up.
Sat. ,18th Aug.
Knight drove Margie to Langar for a visit and Harold cycled after. I went
into Nottingham but returned at 3.
Sun. ,19th Aug.
To morning church. Mrs. McLean and boys (our late Vicar who has a cottage
of mine), there also their wealthy curate Swingler and family who have taken
the Rectory for a month.
Mon. ,20th Aug.
Missing the train I cycled down the Foss to Newark and on to Balderton
Hall where I lunched with Cousin Emily and her daughter Clara Greenwood.
Returning through Newark saw Annie at the Red Cross Depot. The town full of
Royal Engineers.
Tues. ,21st Aug.
Marshall came and motored me to Norwood, Graves Lane and Oxton, to whom
I sold much timber. Beech 1/3d. per foot is used as shell corks, the fuses not
being attached till close to the guns. Beech formerly 6d. a foot.
·T}iurs ~ ,23rd Aug.
Rode in the morning by the bridle road by Woodbro Manor and Lambley to
Burton Joyce and so to Colwick Rectory to see the Glebe leQPed to the Race Course,
9 acres for £225, to report thereon to the Church Commissioners. Someone at
the house Cavaye, brother of the soldier family of that name.
Fri. ,24th Aug.
To the Council at Southwell and lunched at the Rodney with a party and
rode on to Norwood Park.
2.. I. 19 l-J- _
Sat. ,25th Aug.
At home. Harold here from Dartmouth and Ernest from France where he is
--
acting Staff Captain. Nell also here and Charles Hill of Woodbro Hall to dinner
so champagne and port.
Sun. ,26th Aug.
All to Church in the morning.
Hon. ,27th Aug.
A long day at Toton.
Tues.,28th Aug.
Ernest and Harold left us for Langar Hall where Margaret is and a merry party.
Patrick and Annie there on Sat.,18th, and the Thursday- after he had again orders to
fly to France. Drove to Winkburn to see the Colonel.
v/eds. ,29th Aug.
In the evening rode to the Assembly Rooms at Southwell to meet the Local
War-Agricultural Committee to answer for Col. Burnell's bad farming at Park Springs.
Thurs.,30th Aug.
Rode early to meet the Sub-Committee who are to view Col. Bumell's farm
and got off better than was expected but it is galling for Squires to be cross-
examined by a Committee of tenant farmers, some of whom are very arrogant in power.
Fri. ,31st Aug.
Rode with Mrs. Sherbrooke over the Estate at Oxton to Hartswell in a wild
lovely dell with a beautiful spring. Lunched at Oxton and home where quite a party
from Oxton, Mrs. Sherbrooke, her sister Mrs. Popert and nieces, the Kelhams from
Bleasby and party, l{rs. Francklin and her daughter, Mrs. NaIl from Gonalston and
a great feast of peaches and grapes. Fine but this the wettest August for 60
years yet I never wet once though out so much, my weather luck. We had just time
to dress and drive off. Pally, Margie, Harold, Nell and I to Woodbro Hall for
dinner with Charles Hill and his pretty daughter, and very merry.
Sat., 1st Sept.
Pouring with rain in torrents.
Sun., 2nd Sept.
All of us to tea at Gonalston either at the Hall or at Mrs. Francklin senior,
a large party met after for besides the home folk were the Richard Francklins .
and Mrs. Sherbrooke, Mr. Sandford of Sandford in Salop (blind), the Hon. Mrs.Howard
and Mrs. Ronalds. -
Mond. ,3rd Sept.
Cycled to Winkburn to talk to the Colonel and tea with the old ladies in
the fine drawingroom. I am afraid the Colonel is hard up for I doubt his estate
grossing £4000 a year anq I guess interest and tithe swallows near £2000. Miss
Burnell is said to have some considerable fortune.
Tues.,4th Sept.
Lovely day and rode over to Southwell to the Food Control Committee (12)
of which I am one. Having a time to wait to Mrs. Wordsworth's garden opposite
the Minster West Gate and she showed me her rooms set out to accommodate
wounded soldiers leisure when out of hospital, and her photos of her boy Bobby
on General Shipley's staff. Then to our meeting, the Hon. Mrs. Handford our
lady member, Bonner Chairmana and Ellis clerk, and made arrangemen~s for
office and clerks which will cost us £400 a year of which Government won't
contribute more than £100 I guess.
In the afternoon Brodison, Rector of BilsthoDpe,broug~overMrs. Richardson
for tea and took back Harold, Nell and Eva who had been at my ~other's. Aeroplanes
passing overhead and piles of peaches on the lawn for tea. I must have had 1100
on the trees and several hundred bunches of grapes which this year are very fine with
a lovely bloom on. My nephew Geoffry came yesterday but leaves us to returnon
Thursday. He is most probably going to have a commission in the Grenadier tiuards
He is Prefect of Oundle School House, Captain of its cricket team and vice-captain
of the School team, and passed all marks for drill in the School Corps.
\1eds. ,5th Sept.
I went into Nottingham to see T. Cartwright & Randle about Oxton estate
Death Duties and put it off, Capt. Sherbrooke being in Mesopotamia, and then on to
see Farr, a partner of the Home Brewery, about buying some of Sir John Robinson's
land, but he was at the Welbeck with a large merry party for a champagne lunch,
no doubt to celebrate the Government's pronunciamento "Beer is a food" to the
rout of the cranks. My home party busy at Tennis on getting home. Nottingham
market place almost every day is like Goose Fair, crowded with girls, officers
and soldiers, and blue suited wounded men.
Thurs.,6th Sept.
Riding with Mrs. Sherbrooke and Dick Francklin now invalided out of the
Army over Oxton by deep coombed Graves Lane to sandy Baulker.
Fri.,7th Sept.
Rode to the Council at Southwell and then to ride over Knapthorpe
enjoying this wide farmland fringed with woods. A wire on getting home sent
h'-
me on to see Colonel F. Seely at Ra;-sdale. Harold and Nell left us to-day
to stay with Percy at North Lodge, Nottingham Park.
Sat. ,8th Sept.
To Nottingham Park Tennis Club for tea where Margaret was with Percy's
party, the Bournes who recently bought our old Manor House, Mrs. Tinsley and
daughter (the mother was daughter of Sir F. Burnand of "Punch"), Mrs.Dietricksen,
whose husband fell at Dublin last year, Miss Pinder.
Sun. ,9th Sept".
At home eating peaches and nectarines of which we have 1000 this year, so
can give much away. Besides we have a record grape year and the orchards are
full of fruit.
Mon. ,lOth Sept.
Lady Charnwood's children (John 16) and Antonia (14) come to stay with
Margaret for a week.
2.3,
'!r.Ueg~llth Sept.
''; Harshall came and in his motor to \'loodbro LJark and Graves Lane selling standing
, trees.
Heds. ,12th Sept.
. Drove John B. to Southwell in the morning, leaving peaches on Hrs. Wordsworth,
calling on Hon. Hrs. Handford, whose house on the Green was formerly Hiss Heathcote's
girls school, where John's grandmother Hrs. Roby Thorpe,then Nellie Huncella, was
as a girl. Then to the Palace but the Bishop and Mrs. IIoskyns are away, she a cousin
of John's father, Lord Charnwood.
By the 2 train to Nottingham to the Grand Jury Room at the Guildhall where the
Notts & Derby Food Controller, Marsden Smedley holds forth, the Mayor in the Chair
and a pretty state of slavery the Government will reduce us all to yet.
Thurs. ,13th Sept.
To Hexgreave to lunch, the \'lilsons just from the Grand at Scarboro and Muriel
was dressing for dinner when the German U-boat began shelling in the direction of
the wireless station or else the big camp of 5000 men on the Race Course but fell
short in the town, 3 being killed and some damage, the shells going over the hotel.
Arnold (13) was on the Spa at the time, a shell falling there in the woods. Rode
home by the bridle way by Rosselle Wood, thinking how long years ago for 30 years
my grandfather had his annual shooting parties, the \'loolley family staying a week
at one time, having 12 acres of shooting in the parish, and old Henry Parr dead these
30 years keeper. That was in the prosperous fifties and sixties and before the
manufacturing riches became a power.
Fri. , ~th Sept.
To Newark at 12, chatting with Annie at her Red Cross depot overlooking the
market square having our lunch. Some companies of Engineers filing by. Cycled on
to Fenton and waited on the Kesteven W. Agricultural Committee as to ploughing up
grass on Capt. Need's farm belonging to Admiral the Hon. A. Lowry Corry for whom
I am agent. I had called in coming at Beckingham Church as I usually do to feast
my eyes on the rich colour of the old glass pieces in the chancel. I should say
the richest Flemish work. Returning I came by the footway from Sutton to Barnby
village, a quaint church, and so by the retired road with the graceful Newark spire
in the evening light. Fenton church was interesting, early arches. My party had been
to tea at Woodbro Netherhall where Lady Charnwood's tenants, the Bagallays,
entertained them. We had Bridge in the evening.
IS"
Sat. ,~th Sept.
John and Antonia left us for Lichfield and I to Nottingham on sundry affairs.
lIP
Sun.,.,th Sept.
Summer time ends and we put back the clock which plunges us into dark evenings
at once. Yesterday (Sat.) before 7 I rode up to Plowman's Hood to meet the hounds,
much missing the old peer with whom I had hunted 35 years. His brother carries them on
but does not hunt, he is keeping on for his son Petersham after the war, so Leslie~
Birkin acts as M.F.H. Earp (who was 1st Whip to the Quorn in the palmy days of Firr)
carries the horn. Dick Francklin and his daughter out, 2 Seely boys and Georgie Gibbs
and young Morse, Vicar of Shelford's Bn, with very cubby manners. We had one old fox
in the wood and another in Lambley Gorse and so on to Broughton Park Wood where 'we
turned home by Lowdham Grnnge.
 Mon.,17th,Sept.
By train to Widmerpool and cycled to the village and saw old Whitaker at the
Rectory Cottage to settle up tenantright awards and· then on to Wysall to see Skinner
whom I found in the fields. Passing looked in the Church which has a fine tomb of
the Armstrongs and also a painted tablet with his arms to Mr. Widmerpool about 1680.
I exp4ct the Major Widmerpool of Widmerpool of Mrs. Hutchinson's memoirs. At Costock
I called on Mrs. Bagnall Wild at the Hall, which is small, of the time of Elizabeth,
when they were tenants of the Earls of Rutland but ultimately became possessed of the
place about the Civil Wars. Highfields near here utterly spoilt by Hoolley - built by
lr? Sir FZParkYn in time of Geo.II with centre tower and with a touch of Vanburgh's style
• it had quite a dignity of its own. It was built as a farm house to 400 acres here.
Bunny and Bradmore with fine hall and villages nearby all built by Sir. T. Parkyn's
time of Anne and Geo. in picturesque gables is now cut up into freeholds~ I came
through Nottingham and over the Plains (9 miles) home.
Tues. ,18th Sept.
Rode over the fields to Southwell for the Food Control Committee and then on to
Earlshaw farm near Caunton and to see the Winkburn woods.
\1eds. ,19th Sept.
A thoroughly wet day.
IDhurs.,20th Sept.
Revd. Brodison brought Mrs. Richardson and her cousin Eva to lunch. We had
many peaches and this year my houses produced over 1000 peaches and nectarines and
400 bunches of grapes.
Fri., 21st Sept.
Rode over to Southwell for the Council and after lunch with Canon Glaister
where the pretty Miss de Grouchy whom I last met here 3 years ago just after
her return from St. Petersburg. (Sept. Sept.19l4). After to the Food Control
Committee in a room looking out on the Cathedral Yard and to tea at N~rwood Park
not getting home till near 8.
Sat. ,22nd Sept.
Polly and Margie and I ·to Nottingham, I lunched with Percy who must take rest
as he has kidney trouble and I am anxious, quite my favourite brother. Gave Geoffry
£1 tip for school. To the Empire Hall where P. and M. to see the "Movie" Intolerance,
the Babylonian scenes wonderful but the Court scenes of Charles of France and
Catherine de Medici most realistic and good. Thence to the Club. Tidman says the
tractor ploughs so slow we need not tremble for our grass. Saw our Chief Constable's
daughter, Miss Tomasson, who used to be such a fat child grown into a pretty girl of 18.
Sun. ,23rd Sept.
~ feature of this summer has been the absence of flies, instead of our entering
a wood and being covered with swarms there are practically none and it has added much
to the pleasure of riding.
Mon. ,24th Sept.
Rode via Graves Lane intending to lunch at Bilsthorpe Rectory, their motor car
passed me near Hexgreave as I was talking to Capt. Kitson, A.P.M. so turned back to
lunch with him at Kirklington Gate House.
2.:r: . - (1 11-
Katie Spencer, or rather her husband, has sold that lovely property of hers, ,
C1ifford Priory, just where the Wye enters Herefordshire, so I have seen the last
of my pleasant visits there, but it was enjoyable when all her girls were children.
Po11y and I took long cycle rides. It was just before the War Percy motored me down
to join a merry party there and Kitty's wedding in 1915 was my last visit.
Tues.,25th Sept.
To Nottingham. Percy not well.
Weds.,26th Sept.
To meet the War A ricu1tura1 Committee at Oxton Fa110ws who disapprove of
Cockerham's farming an~ order his removal. All were struck with beautiful country
hereabouts but Kitson remarked how wild and big hedged we are. \fhen lost riding
by \'lesthorpe Dumb1es his·1itt1e girl asked "Has anyone·been here before"? Rode on
to Hexgreave later.
Fie ,28th Sept.
Rode to Southwe11 for the Food Control Committee.
Sat., 29th Sept.
To Nottingham.
Sun. ,30th Sept.
To Gona1ston for tea with Mrs. Francklin senior where her daughters Mrs.
Sherbrooke, Mrs. Na11 with her brother-in-law and fiancee and Wi11iam F. from
hospital.
Hon. ,1st Oct.
Drove Po11y to Sye~ston Hall for lunch. The views beautiful especially the
vista of Newark spire 5 miles away. George is now at Windsor in the 2nd Life
Guards at 21, after 2 campaigns at Egypt, Gallipoli and Sa10nica. A good well
stocked farm of 400 acres and £700 a year of rents, with prudence _he should
enjoy life for farming pays well now and is likely to.
Tues., 2nd Oct. R.~d..~
Wickham came to see me and later I rode over RaiR8ga~.

\veds. ,3rd Oct.

To Lincoln where Marsha11 the timber merchant of Lenton met me in his motor
and so via Market Rasen through Ho1ton Woods now fast being felled to Caistor and
put up at the Red Lion in the Market Place, a little to\Vin about 1000 people on A
gteep slope overlooking a pretty country. We then through the woods at C1ixby and
back for dinner, most comfortable the landlady having 2 pretty girls.
Thurs. ,4th Oct.
After 5 weeks glorious weather it looked cold and heavy rain so with engine
trouble to mend we could not get into the woods till near 2. Had tea at R. Spilman's
and back to our hotel for dinner with billiards after.
Fri. ,5th Oct.
h-
To the woods on Wi11eys farm and I expect to sell £900 of timber a1togJeter.
i
iP~d our bill for both £2.15.0. i.e. 10/~ a day and wine 8/- etc. After lunch ran
home at 4 by Lincoln and Newark about 60 miles.
Sat. ,6th Oct.
To Nottingham but out at 2. We have yet a few nectarines and of nectarines and
peaches have had over 1000. We shall have a good assortment of pears and apples and
potatoes, french beans in salt, pickled eggs 20 to 30 dozen and indeed prepare
for seige conditions. There we~e 6 d~ys air raids on Loddon during the harvest
moon but our Flanders victory good.
Sun.,7th Oct.
Raining and in bed with a chill from motoring on Friday.
Mon. ,8th Oct.
I rode by Rosselle wood to Halam and up to the high point of Newhall which
commands such a fine view of the valley of the Greet: it began to rain and I got
very wet. To tea with Polly at the Rectory.
Tues. ,9th Oct.
By train to Attenboro Manor where the heavy tractors taking gobernment hay
away had done damage to the road. Soldiers and 2 girls were working the press.
The working girls dress is a new feature of the War. Tea at the County Club.
\'1eds. ,10th Oct.
To Graves Lane to join hounds where many foxes. Colonel Birkin caarried the horn.
Mrs. Sherbrooke of Oxton, Dick Francklin and George Gibbs the only field. We found
at Leys Gorse near Epperstone and after ~ hour run killed him, a very fine one,
in Ploughman Wood. Here a curious thing happened. My horse usually stands quiet
and I was off him, standing a few yards away, when throwing up the carcase caused
him to turn round and gallop down a ride, nor did I find him again till after a
continued search ~ hours after about i mile from the Wood.

Thurs.,llth Oct.
To congratulate Mrs. Dufty on her 94th birthday this morning. She can read
without glasses, walk well and a pretty old lady.
Margie and I drove for tea with Mrs. ~. NaIl (nee Edith Francklin) at Hoveringham
Hall, she was busy on her 60 acre farm, her husband having a battery in France. This
place was given him by his father and when I first knew it his great grandfather NaIl
had it. We had a merry tea.
Fri. ,12th Oct.
Rode to Southwell for the Food Control Committee and then on to Norwood Park
for tea: so it was dark before I started for home and on Oxton Hill came on a soldier
who had an accident on his bicycle so carried on a small portmanteau of a girl to
Mrs. Gibson's cottage at Oxton where he was taking it to. We had oyster pudding
for dinner: now our cheapest meal for we get 50qysters for 3/6d. from Cornwall and
it makes us 4 or 5 meals for 3 people. .
Sat. ,13th Oct.
Starkey had cautioned me the War Agricultural Committee would take Park Springs
Farm in hand from Col. Burnell so at 10 off to Southwell and then to Hexgreave by
the bridle way through Kirklington woods to Winkburn where I saw the Colonel and
persuaded him to let me let it. Dear old man was a figure of Don Quixote in his old
tattered dressing gown in his old bedroom with Queen Anne fireplace. The wall is so
thick that there is easy room to stand between the double doors to his bedroom.
I had a cheerful tea with the two sisters reputed rich. I am afraid the Colonel is
short of ready cash so my chance of getting a good sum for the timber is welcome.
2..,. .
Sun. ,14th Oct.
A very sunny day but a frost last night, owing no doubt to the cold and
late spring the leaf is very strong and autumn tints very few: even the limes
are in full leaf also the chesnuts, though these 2 trees are the first to go bare.
Georgie Gibbs to say goodbye before going to school at Leamington where is Dover .
School removed, the air raids making Dover dangerous.
Tues.,16th Oct.
Rode to Southwell to appeal for my cashier Bel~at the Military Tribunal,
he being 34 and Class C.l for home defence, who being a 1914 Uolunteer is so
prepared and he was granted till Christmas. -
Weds. ,17th Oct.
To the meet of the hounds at Gonalston Osiers, all Edward Francklin's family
on foot. We found and ran down the valley to Fiskerton.
Thurs.,18th Oct.
A morning ride to Oxton and back over the Park Farm enjoying the autumn
landscape. Walked over the Netherfields farm to view the state of the buildings
built very strongly about 1770 and a chat with Mr. Burrows (87), he and Mrs.Dufty
a connecting link \vith the far-away Epperstone of the "fifties" of my grandfather's
time and Rector Champneys Polly's father, and here I am still in the old house
with the grandchildren and great grandchildren of their old servants about me.
Fri. ,19th Oct.
A letter fDom Ella safe in the midst of raids on London. Rode to the Council
at Southwell and after round by Norwood Park, Halam and Rosselle Wood home.
Sat., 20th Oct.
At the Court of Sewers Nottingham Shire Hall. Lunched at the Club and to see
the Bing Boys at the Theatre. Came out with a pretty Red Cross nurse with whom I
had a talk, she coming from Bournemouth to the hospital at Lincoln.
Sun. ,21st Oct.
To church in the morning.
Mon. ,22nd Oct.
Rode early to Winkburn to meet Bradwell and 2 of the Southwell War Agricultural
Committee to make the best of Colonel Burnell's bad farming. In spite of his fine
estates left free 40 years ago the bad times involve him in debt so we are short
of ready money. However I have got £1000 windfall for him and selling some Upton
property will bring in £500 more so I trust we get over this year all right. I saw
the dear old fellow in his bedroom after.
Tues.,23rd Oct. u

Rode at 1 to the Food Control Committee at Southwell, our local ~1A.~A.K.4'c..h..

with its Bishop, Canons, M.P., local gentry and less than 300 people in the 4 hamlets
comprising the town, and came back by Nonvood Park and Roselle Wood.
\·leds. ,24th Oct.
To Widmerpool and dycled to Stanton-on-Wolds to see farm of Browns. His last
son taken for army and 3 soldiers who work little sent as substitutes. We manage our
ufairs funnily and are losing the war. Cycled back to Nottingham by Normanton where
Ilooked in at the new brick house with Henry VIII chimneys built by T.Hil1 and let
to D'Oyley Ransom.
Thurs. ,25th Oct.
Rode to Langar by way of Bingham, the gardener had prepared a fire in the
:Hall so met the tenants discussing estate matters. Rode home dovm the new lime
avenue and Musters' farm at Fernhiil to Cropwell Bishop' where my family resided from
the days of Philip and Mary circa 1560 to end of 18th century. They were freeholders
but in Thornton's Notts. rime Charles II he misspells the name Hawkinson instead of
Huskinson. We have no accurate previous record but by tradition came from Bohemia
possibly in train of Queen Anne (Richard II's queen) the crest (a goose) and the
name Huska (a gosling) in Czech tally. They were Czech nobles and some tombs are
at Baber, a branch had this crest whichisalso that of Counts Deymts of Stretitz.
Riding and looking back across to the wooded Belvoir Hills, its castle strong in
the sunlight, as also the tower of Langar against purple shades, a lovely afternoon.
At Cropwell I try to fancy a fine old 17th century house nearly opposite the church
as ours. Our freehold adjoined the churchyard I know. Percy's boy may inherit
Langar.
Fri. ,26th Oct.
~

Katie Spencer came to stay: her beautiful Clifford Priory property sold, they
go to Winchester. I rode to Southwell and let disgraceful Park Springs farm to Spray.
Sat. ,27th Oct.
To Nottingham theatre with Margie ,to see "London Pride" a good early \'Tar play
by du Maurier.
Hon. ,29th Oct. R~d.d.e-
A busy day riding to1i=i~e Park to see Frank Seely in the morning and
riding with him and back by the Woodbro Park Farms and driving later to Norwood
Park and tea there.Florence Starkey is engaged to a Major Wilson. A party there
from Newark with pretty Mrs. Harold Thorpe.
Tues.,30th Oct.
Rode to Winkburn for a chat with Col. Burnell and coming back had tea with
Wagstaff, a sporting farmer at Hockerton (aet 70) whose nephew Spray takes Park Springs.
The third Hrs. vI. was Lumley Cator's daughter, a cousin of the Scarboro family
I had known since we danced at Lady M~er's ball at Thoresby in 1890. At 50 she
wanted marriage and after some vain tries rather gave Society a shock by marrying
a tenant farmer.
That Thoresby Ball took place in the great Dukery Week of 1890 when all the
great houses were full for the first dance mn the underground palace at Welbeck -
there were the 2~'Duchess brides of Portland and Newcastle and the fin fleur of
Society at the time. What pretty little girls were the St. Albans especially
Moyra (now Cavendish), Lady Kitty (now Somerset), Lady Alexandria was youngest
and not at Thoresby but a few years after one winter I amused myself with a
"Lady Clara V. de V" flirtation \'1ith her, a quite delightful: if it had not been
for my serious disappointment of Ella then fresh I might have fallen seriously in
love but it was useful as a distraction. That was in the golden "nineties" fine
seasons. S. African money made London gay and I hunted all winter and yachted and
soldiered in the summer almost to my heart's content.
\'leds. ,31st Oct.
To meet hounds at Graves Lane but no sport. Out Hugh Seely of the Grenadier
Guards, Mrs. Sherbrooke, Richard Francklin, My nephew Geoffry Huskinson accepted
as subaltern in Grenadier Guards and joins next February.
.Thurs. ,1stnNov.
To Knapthorpe with Marshall selling larch.
Fri., 2nd Nov.
Rode to Southwell for the Council. Lunched with Canon Glaister and to the
Food Control after. Milk fixed 6d. per quart.
Sat., 3rd !rov.
To Nottingham signing endless warrants for Collectors of Taxes. Polly
returned from Hemel Hempsted where she had been to see a school for Margaret.
Sun. ,4th Nov.
The W.A.p. at Hexgreave decided to plough up a lot of grass so I had to ride
over to meet~and lunched with Wilson. A perfect St. Martin's summer day. On
getting home found Annie had motored over with her boy Patrick on leave from
France (aet 20) who now is Capt. and Flight Commander of the Fighting Scouts
at Bethune.
Mon.,5th Nov.
At home all day.
Tues.,7th Nov.
Walked up in the morning after I had finished my letters for a chat with the
Rector and in the afternoon Polly, Katie Spencer and I walked across the fields
to Woodbro Hall but Hill was not in. The village here long and pretty and
surrounded by large orchards. Played Bridge in the evening.
vleds.,8th Nov.
By train to Attenbro ne~r by the huge new Munition Works. An explosion here
nearly set the place on fire some time ago, when the Morecambe Works were fired
and it is thought that tteachery had a hand in it. Mother's 74th birthday. I
sent her fruits and champagne.
Thurs.,9th Nov.
Drove to the Magna Charta an old posting inn at Lowdham where Marshall the
timber merchant of Lenton picked me up in his motor and so to the Fosse through
Newark, Lincoln to Caistor and sold Clixby and spent some hours marking more
timber. I get 1/- per foot for beech (once 4d.) and for good ash up to 3/- per ft.
We had tea at R. Spilman's farm and back to the Red Lion at Caistor where Mrs.
Betteridge and one of her pretty daughters made us most comfortable. I played
Marshall at Billiards and won.
Fri. , lOth Nov.
Left 9 and at home at 12.30, 55 miles. At Lincoln saw 9 aeroplanes up
looking like great dragon flies. Lincoln and Newark full of soldiers.
Sat. ,11th Nov.
Lunched at Park House, Mapperley with the Stanley Birkins. Cecil Willoughby there.
30.
Sun. ,12th· Nov.
Polly not well but Katie Spencer, Margie and I to church. Saw my mother
after and to talk with old Burrows in the evening, he nOWQ 87, a well to do
man as a cornfactor and has also the Glebe Farm now. He recal~d the old Volunteer
days being one of the '59 men and the great review at Belton in 1870, Colonel
Eyre and his Adjutant Egerton old.Crimean and Mutiny men, Major Becger (father
of Major Becher who fell at the Hohenzollern), Major Burnaby, Col. Parkyns
(1st Capt. of the local company) etc. What a history that old regiment, now
the famous 8th Sherwoods, has now. Charlie was Colonel of it when it started
for France in '15. My father was Captain in it many years.
Mon. ,12th Nov.
Rode to Park Springs Farm to meet Spray who is the new tenant about repairs:
and my horse turned so lame I expect from rhuematism I had some difficulty getting
home 10 miles.
Tues. ,13th Nov.
Cycled to Southwell to the Tribunal to appeal for the Hexgreave gardener but
failed. Canon Hacking asked me to lunch. He has a large house formerly the Becher's.
His daughter Mrs. Stevenson has her husband in the 8th Sherwoods and now lives with
him. His 2 sons, one a clergyman, are· also in the 8th.
vleds. ,14th Nov.
To Nottingham at 2 to see Percy who being out I came home at 5.
Thurs.,15th Nov.
A quiet day at home and to the Rectory for a chat in the morning.
Fri. ,16°th Nov.
By train to Southwell for the Council and in the Committee to consider the
prosecutions and DORA (as the Defence of Realm Act is called). Revd. Brodison
and I having whipped up our party prevente~ action and saved Wilson of Hexgreave
who had been feeding pheasants. He would have hardly escaped under a £50 fine.
I lunched with Canon Glaister, Brodison with us. B. is Rector of Bilsthorpe, an
Irishman and a good sort. The Canon's house is on the Green in~a walled garden
and full of good things. Walked up to Norwood Park for tea with Mrs. Starkey
and congratulated her on her daughter's engagement to Major Wilson. Drove home.
Sat.,17th Nov.
To the Income Tax Commissioners Meeting at Nottingham and then to Piggins
at Beston House and bought a good looking blood horse to ride, "Gay Ladll •
Sun. ,18th Nov.
Perfect weather and to church at 11 and to see Burrows for a chat in the
evening. Wrote Ld. Charnwood to see Bonar Law to get the injustice to Ernest by
the Land Office righted. He having gone to the War without leave 3 weeks after
that office gave general permission but did Ernest out of his place, who now has
had 18 months of war as a staff officer. It is thus the \f:hitehall tadpoles treat
us of the old country school.
Mon.,19th Nov.
A quiet day, a chat at the Rectory in the morning on Germany and the War.i
I do much pruning of my trees and in evenings generally play Auction Bridge
(cut throat) with Polly and Katie Spencer and generally win the rubber.
3/.
Tues.,20th Nov.
{r /1-
A quiet day except for office work. My horse Teddy Bear better and expect
my new horse tomorrow so shall hope to be more about. Bob is my useful carriage
slave.
\'leds. ,21st Nov.
A day like Spring. I rode Teddy Bear to the meet at Bestwood where we put
up two foxes:
m
then to Calverton Gorse, bolted a brace and settling on one went
over R~sdale Park and through the whole length of the Sherwood Lodge woods
at a ratt~ing pace and checked at 7 mile House. Put up another brace but took
the old one out towards R~sdale but my horse having had enough I came home.
My new blood mare arrived. h
Ehurs.,22nd Nov.
Rode Gay Lad to Oxton, very satisfactory.
Fri~ ,23rd Nov.
Rode to Bingham to see Brown who has big provision shops in the little
market place about sale of Colston Vicarage land and then on to Shelford to
see a well sinker and so home by the Manor and river. A magnificent sunset
after a charming sunny day.
~~r_
Sat.,~ Nov.
Rode to Sherwood Lodge on Gay Lad and then at 1 on Teddy Bear to Winkburn,
11 miles, to see Col. Burnell and home by moonlight across the fields. Much wind.
~S
Sun.-'th Nov.
A very stormy night followed by a sunny day. Walked to Hoveringham Hall
for lunch. MajorNJall being home for 2 weeks. Mrs. Francklin, Mrs.Sherbrooke
and Mr. and Mrs. Richard F. for tea and home bymoonlight. From NaIl's account
I surmise our transport is too heavy for mobility. But the Germans travel light
and this accounts for their successful pushes.
Mon.26th Nov.
Early to Peterbro where I walked round the Cathedral and close, and on to
Yaxley whence I drove to my Inn at Norman Cross. Walked on to the Fox at
Folksworth where I had tea and the audit of the Robertson's small tenants,
waited on by the gossip Mrs. Freeman.
Tues. ,27th Nov.
Gee came in his cart and I drove round by Folksworth,ahd Shilton, 3.Ild at 12
the audit at Norman Cross leaving Yaxley at 4. Knight met me at Netherfields at
7 and so had 7 miles drive home.
vleds. ,28th Nov.
Drove to Sherwood Lodge but Wickham being gone I got on the train at Arnold
and so to Nottingham talking to a K.R.R. man whose brother had been Charlie's
soldier servant.
Thurs.,29th Nov. R..O'.~~
Rode my new blood horse to Rai~aa~e to see Colonel Seely and back by the
farms in the Woodbro valley.
32.
Fri.,30th'Nov.
To the Council at Southwell and saw Wilson's case of g~v~ng corn rakings
to game safe-from prosecution and then to ~he Crown for Starkey's audit where
Belrand Mrs. Kent met me and so got the money in the Bank opposite by 3 just
before it closed, and after a good bacon and egg tea got into the Food Control
Committee and after rode on to Norwood Park to see our Member John Starkey.
Moon not very bright riding back.

Sat., 1st Dec.

To Nottingham but back at 2 and walked up by Lowdham church and the field
way. Home for tea and played "Cut throat Bridge" with Katie and Polly as I usually
do now between tea and dinner at 7.45. Very cosy.
Sun.,2nd Dec.
In the afternoon to Gonalston for tea and dinner with the Edvlard Francklins.
A bright moonlight walk home.
Mon.,3rd Dec.
Frost and at 2 to Nottingham with Katie Spencer for the private view of the
fine War photos at the Castle.
Tues.,4th Dec.
With Marshall all day selling timber in Oxton Dumble and home at 4 for Bridge.
Weds.,5th Dec.
To the Black Boy Nottingham for the Toton Audit and ordered more wine
against Rhonda's famine.
Thurs.,6th Dec.
Busy writing all morning. Margie is having a glowing time at Dartmouth
with her Uncle Harold.
Fri.,7th Dec.
To Oxton for the Audit. No dinner. Oldershaw from the Bank came for the
money. Tea after with Mrs. Sherbrooke and walked home.
Sat.,8th Dec.
To Nottingham to the local Land Agents meeting at the Victoria and to lunch
at the Club. With Prothero, President of Board of Agriculture, to meeting at Albert
Hall after to urge food growing, it was a great field day for the County and the
v.
lunch room full. Prothero, Duke of Portland, Earl Maniers, Lord Galway, Colonels
Foljambe, Charles Birkin and Donagowski, Sir Harvey Bruce, Sir Ernest Paget, Sir
William Hicking, Major Holden, Colonel Colville, etc. I lunched with Ed.Francklin
and Copnall Leech of the Peace. Mrs. Warrand and Mrs. Richard Francklin joined us
at the Hall. At 5 home and played Bridge till dinner. We keep to Yapps rations.
Sun.,9th Dec.
To church. In the evening a chat with Mr. Bro\vn. I hear the 1st Army, Ernest
at its H.H.Q., likely to go to Italy. The War looks ominous.
33.
Mon. ,lOth Dec.-
0 11_
To Nottingham and trains fitting in badly I got Stevenson to meet us at Nottm.
and drive us to Ruddington for the audit. I got out at Wilwell Hill and Belt and Mrs.
Kent went on to hold the audit, whilst I walked about the Paget property till dinner
at 2.
Tues.,llth Dec.
Katie Spencer left us after 6 weeks visit to go to her new home at
Winchester. She felt the sale of Clifford Priory and so shall I after so many
delightful holidays there for many years past.
Po11y and I drove to call at Tgurgarton Priory to call on the Snows
who have bought their Boys School from Ramsgate there to get away from air raids.
~eds. ,12th Dec.
To the Black Boy at Nottingham Market Place for the Widmerpool audit
and dinner at 2.
Thurs.,13th Dec.
Dined with the Tenantright Valuers at the We1beck at 2.
Fri.14th Dec.
Aubrey Wykeham came to see me and then rode to Southwe11 for a Food Control
committee and returning my new blood horse came down on a loose stone near Brackenhurst.
Sat.+5th Dec.
To the Court of Sewers 'at the Shire Hall but could not raise a quorum.
Sl,ln. t§th Dec.
A frost and snow set in last night but we are lucky as we have had no
dark days before Christmas this year.
Mon. ,17th Dec.
Drove with Be1±to Winkburn for the audit, a bright winter landscape, and
after dinner for a couple of hours talk with the old Colonel in his bedroom in
this fine old Queen Anne Hall with its quaint Norman church beside which the
tombs of the Burne11s from Henry VIII's time. The ,War Agricultural Committee
trouble us on account of our wild park lands. Tea with the Miss Burne11s after
and home by 7.
Tues.,18th Dec.
Spent at home.
Weds. ,19th Dec.
To Newark to the Clinton Arms to meet Warwicks and Admiral Corry's tenants
and saw Annie after at the Red Cross Depot. There are fewer soldiers about now
than 2 years past. I expect drafted to France as the war is ominous. At 7 to the Parish
Club Room to meet the Parish Council to settle the giving of the Charity Estate
money. All our poor widows get 15/- and about 20 other poor people various sums.
Thurs. ,20th Dec.
To Nottingham and a light lunch at the Club talking to Fo1jambe and then on
to Derby to meet Margie who was returning from staying with her uncle Harold at
Dartmouth Navy College but she did not arrive the 3.20 train and the next troo late
to catch our connection so we dined at the Gresham and came on by the 9 train to Lowdham.
Ernest home on leave from France joined us. He had been in London for the late
ut 11-
air raid. Polly met us with Knight and the brougham, but the roads very frost
bound. Bradwell who is on Rhonda's advisory committee says the Food Control are
in a regular tangle.

Fri. ,21st Dec.

Spent a very pleasant day at Widmerpool Hall with Major Robertson. Our
rather wild valley by the Stanton Brook behind Roughoe Wood breeds trouble from·
the War Ag. Committee but the Widmerpool valley looks charming. I was first here
in 1870 just the same time of year, driving with my grandmother in our pair horse
travelling carriage 20 miles, no railway being then nearer than Nottingham.
Returning I looked in at the Club and rated Rhonda to his deputy here, Marsden
Smedley. Got back at 10.
Sat. ,22nd Dec.
At home but busy till near 12 when I went to have a chat with the Rector
and in the afternoon to tea with Mrs. Dufty who aged 94 has memories of the·
place as far back as George IV's days. Vi Brett .her granddaughter rallied her
on her old flames, she used to stay at Bulcote as a girl of 17, and the old roue
Capt. Wright of the Lodge used to try to get her to go in to drink wine (and no
doubt get a kiss). The Rolleston boys, the Burton Vicar's sons used to be her
sweethearts. Old Padley was squire there and married a friend, but Burton Joyce
a small riverside village then not spoilt by the villa townspeople as now.
Ernest (from France) came to dinner and entertained us with tales of
phases of life out there, the super-crack mess of the R.F.C., the members of
the mature ages of 18 to 22, with a president of 24. The butter from Lansdowne
House, each man his horse, the lordly motor cars at command, youth and money,
for these boys get high pay, lives while it can.

Sun. ,23rd Dec.

To dinner with my Mother and Ernest. She (aet 74) in the bright Madame de
Pompadour colours she affects and with her small rooms full of dainty and
valuable china, pictures, miniatures and furniture. It is a house of 3 parlours,
16 ft. x 14 ft. each, 3 bedrooms and 2 attics, and good kitchens in a small
parklike croft of 4 acres full of fine trees.
Margie was in bed to drive off a threatened cold and entertained us with
tales of Dartmouth. Called on old Mr. Burrows (aet 87) one of our village worthies
who remembers Queen Victoria's days and the golden age of the village when the
rich Champneys were at the Rectory and Huskinsons at the Manor and the Lower
Hall (my present home).
Called to see Wm. Cooper, our sexton, who has just got over pneumonia.
I would not lose him for no one looks his part better than he and no make up
needed, his head and face being so skull like, his bandy legs and splay fe~t,
and his laugh showing all his teeth which are very good.
Mon.,Christmas Eve.
Just looked at the letters with Bel~and gave him 10/- for his daughter.
Getting wine and apples for the maids' Christmas and to see my mother and at 1.30
Polly, Margie and I drove in our brougham 6 miles to the tram terminus at Carlton
fearing the crowded trains and so to Percy's house at North Lodge,Nottingham Park,
3s-: ill,
'.' ·tospend Christmas. Percy, Muriel and their two boys there (Geoffry is going to
. the Guards in Feb.) Ernest from France and the family friend Randall. Harold
Bayley in for dinner.
Tues.,Christmas Day.
Polly, Margie and I to Church. Percy, Ernest and Geoffry walk over to
Epperstone for lunch with Mother, and Muriel busy at the Convalsescent Soldiers
Hospital near by. At 1 I walked over to Basford Hall to see my old yachting
friend Fowler and we all re-assembled at tea time and the iinnerat 8.
Turtle soup (not rationed) Turkey (counts 2 Ibs. on the ration), plum pudding,
champagne and dessert (not rationable). We are supposed to keep within voluntary
rations - 5 lb. flour a week each, 21b. meat. We had some dancing in the evening.
\veds. ,25th Dec~
We all to the War photos at the Castle and in the afternoon to the Panto
at the Hippodrome and the Wrey family came in the evening for some dancing~
Thurs. ,27th Dec.
Ernest left for France at 10, and at 11 Polly and I, leaving Margie behind,
returned home. At 1, I drove to Southwell to meet the War Agricultural Committee.
about the enclosure of Eakring open arable fields. Of these LordSaville ~(.,,(t-e.. tt
some 300 acres, receives £120 in rent and pays more in Tithe and Land Tax,S~·Ce.. f:: .
a direct loss to him. Except Laxton which has over 1500 acres under the old ~~ o~
open field system once universal, Eakring is the last example. Drove to •
Norwood Park for tea. A thavl.
Fri.,28th Dec.
Rode to Southwell for the Council and at 1 on to Winkburn as the
Agricultural Committee threatens to turn Col. Burnell out of his home farm.
But I found all the work well forward. We had a talk with the Colonel and home
by moonlight.
Sat. ,29th Dec.
To Nottingham and lunched atfthe Club and hope my representations will
prevent the Agricultural Committee taking arbitrary action at Winkburn.
Margie came home with me.
Sun~ ,30th Dec.
To Church and as none stayed for Communion except the Rector's wife,
Polly and I stayed to make up the number. Rain yester morn and last night,
and first for 5 weeks and except one slight fall we had none of the snow which
fell so heavily all over England two or three times. I am ending this 4th War
Christmas my household still intact, my 2 maids, 2 men and 3 horses, and trust I
may continue in good fortune though the future looms gloomy, my Income Tax is
4s.6d. in £1. Percy's finances seem now very flourishing I am glad to say.
Non.,31st Dec.
Rode to Hexgreave Park. John Wilson home on leave after the push.
A very pretty girl with Leighton fair colouring, Mrs. Berry and her baby
girl. Margie has returned to Nottingham.