Typed on HSBC Jesselton airmail.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
You are very lucky to be the first to be addressed on my new typewriter. The result is going to be a little odd because it is a pin type machine formally used for typing bank drafts. A few springs have gone and the spacing system is not working. However, I have spent a little time with a duster, have removed a large rusty piece of metal that had no apparent purpose and have tied up two odd bits with string. If you read it it works. I cannot correct mistakes very well because it is hard to rub out and because of the shape of the print. So much excitment in the family during the last few days. Caroline is at school and having a grand time. On the first day she was up at half six wanting new dress, shoes flask of juice pencil and paper for drawing plus nonstop conversation. Well, eventually we were off and arrived on time at eight. We just left her at the door where she lost interest in her parents at once. When she was brought home at twelve it was obvious that she had had a lovely time. Today I collected her and the lady running the school said that Caroline was very well behaved and self possessed ... and had drawn 1234 and ABC very well. So everything is well. Already she is more like the old Caroline instead of being the silly miss that she has been of late. And Adrienne is enjoying mothers uninterrupted company during the morning which will do her good. We had a change for a night out on Tuesday, having dinner with a group of friends playing poker. Margo did quite well and did not loose quite as much as I did. I might take it up in a once a month "school". It will be an expense to find out the way around the cards but if successful it is good training and something that I have wanted to do for some time. The accountant is in the school so I shall be looked after and cant come to much harm. On Sunday evening the local grocer opened a brand new building. Super deluxe for Jesselton with self service and an airconditioned milkbar and small dancehall. We are not customers of his but somehow received an invitation. Champayne was on in the airconditioned section which Margo and I found at an early stage in the proceedings and the golf club boy was behind that bar. We started off by having our glasses refilled in the normal way but shortly afterwards he was just passing the bottle across. It was just as well that we had booked for the pictures with Martin and Mary Curren so that we left at nine. Even so I slept through a good part of the Inn of the Sixth
Happiness. We finished up at three after bacon and eggs at our place which I somehow produced in reasonable order. I still have not heard from london that they have bought those BMC shares so suppose that they could not get them. I have bad luck on motor shares as a similar thing happened with standards when I bid five shillings. Look at the markings ther have been since. Have not made an offerin Melbourne for some Swan Brewery shares. They look a good thing and will send you my report in due course. One attractive feature is that tax is not deducted to residents abroad up to £104 Australian. They are having a share boom just now with America's money coming in. This firm has a monopoly on Western Australia, hotels etc. and their reserves and undistributed is up to the same figure at which the had a capitalisation of reserves some years ago, so thought there might be something for nothing there. Anyway knowing how Australians love their beer I dont think I will loose on it. Cheerio for now and Love from us all. Hope you can read this ... It might improve in time if I get busy iwth a screwdriver,
Love,
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
11.8.59
The Hongkong and Shanghai BC
Jesselton
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter - London have not confirmed that they have bought my BMC shares although markings were well below my bid - I expect them to go to 18/- when the strike is over and the small car is on the market - others being equal, 1 to 2 years. Alan's holiday was very extensive - lucky about the brakes, it must have been a tricky experience. I don't understand why British cars should boil! Something add here, engine oil could be too heavy - there are some specially light oils on the market now - height might account for it. Did the car boil when in motion or when stopped? If on a long run here and I have to stop I leave the engine running - otherwise without the fan working the engine heats up too much. The children have turned over a dozen new leaves at once. Our new Amah has arrived, quite young, good English very cheerful and can handle them expertly. It is a great relief and both Caroline and Adrienne are much better. Caroline is due for school next year although Margo still has not passed her test. The previous failers have put her off the whole business though no doubt it will be completed in due course. Dorothy & Donald sent a knife spoon fork set for Susan - it was very good of them to do so.
The manager has just returned from opening our new office in SIBU in Sarawak, we now have 9 throughout Borneo. I believe things are pretty rugged up there. Our main interest I believe is in bauxite and of course, there is pepper. The Ghurkas put on a lively show last night, beating the retreat. We took Caroline along and she enjoyed the desplay very much. I pitied the chaps marching up and down for so long, it was a very sticky evening and I was very wet from sitting still. Of the enclosed photos we have had two enlarged for framing and the one of Adrienne & Susan with Caroline in the background is most successful blown up about 10 times. If you are interested I'll send the negative as I do not think the actual picture would travel very well.
Cheerio for now and love,
Margo, Peter, Caroline, Adrienne and Susan.
Jesselton
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter - London have not confirmed that they have bought my BMC shares although markings were well below my bid - I expect them to go to 18/- when the strike is over and the small car is on the market - others being equal, 1 to 2 years. Alan's holiday was very extensive - lucky about the brakes, it must have been a tricky experience. I don't understand why British cars should boil! Something add here, engine oil could be too heavy - there are some specially light oils on the market now - height might account for it. Did the car boil when in motion or when stopped? If on a long run here and I have to stop I leave the engine running - otherwise without the fan working the engine heats up too much. The children have turned over a dozen new leaves at once. Our new Amah has arrived, quite young, good English very cheerful and can handle them expertly. It is a great relief and both Caroline and Adrienne are much better. Caroline is due for school next year although Margo still has not passed her test. The previous failers have put her off the whole business though no doubt it will be completed in due course. Dorothy & Donald sent a knife spoon fork set for Susan - it was very good of them to do so.
The manager has just returned from opening our new office in SIBU in Sarawak, we now have 9 throughout Borneo. I believe things are pretty rugged up there. Our main interest I believe is in bauxite and of course, there is pepper. The Ghurkas put on a lively show last night, beating the retreat. We took Caroline along and she enjoyed the desplay very much. I pitied the chaps marching up and down for so long, it was a very sticky evening and I was very wet from sitting still. Of the enclosed photos we have had two enlarged for framing and the one of Adrienne & Susan with Caroline in the background is most successful blown up about 10 times. If you are interested I'll send the negative as I do not think the actual picture would travel very well.
Cheerio for now and love,
Margo, Peter, Caroline, Adrienne and Susan.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
13th June 1959
Hongkong Bank
Jesselton
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
It has been a very busy week both inside and outside the office and we have been resting this afternoon. This morning I took Caroline to see the Queen's birthday parade at 6.45 am and watched the Navy, Australians, Gurkhas, Police (in white & red) dress, in a fine ceremony with a lively band. Then shopping and golf and an afternoon's sleep. During the week have finalised the paper work for the take over by one of our agencies as head office for Brunei State and am due to fly up there on 25th and return on 26th/27th to talk things over with the Brunei manager and make sure things are understood for the switch in accounting. Have thoroughly enjoyed this piece of business as it has been a change from routine and is a rare thing to occur at all, so that I have felt that everything was my own work. Apart from that it has been a proving point that I know this particular job well enough for my own satisfaction. This may seem curious but as is quite usual we are self taught in new departments and without having anyone else's work to compare with can seldom be absolutely sure everything is tied up.
Similarly in Inward Bills in Calcutta my proving point was the strike when I had to do everything normally done by clerks as well as my own job. The enclosed card was the invitation to a pretty heavy RN session on Thursday evening. The destroyer was lying off the point and we went out on the Governor's yacht "Petrel" to be taken aboard with all due ceremony and entertained very fully indeed. Being the flotilla leader the ship carried an extra number of Lt Commanders and odds and ends and there seemed to be as many hosts as guests. Last night we had dinner with Mary and Martin Coren who were entertaining four seamen and passed a most enjoyable evening. They were a good bunch of chaps were obviously felt at home right away and were not at all shy. but talked of everything under the sun and did not want to leave when the time came up. We have our do to-morrow - 4 CPOs and a dozen other people to curry tiffin - expect the children will have a lot of attention. They are full of life just now but Adrienne is being treated for worms and Caroline has a rash - but these things are very normal here and modern medicine is very good for clearing things up in a few days. Susan is fighting fit and very energetic kicking hard and lifting her head, smiling and chattering to herself and still consuming vast quantities of milk at breakneck speed.
Wed. Have just received Caroline's card which is a beauty. The curry tiffin went very well and we left to watch a football match at 4.30 - so four hours of entertaining passed off seemingly quickly. They eat everything and seemed to enjoy themselves.
Last night was an early one and we slept very well indeed.
I enclose the photos which are ok. The mountian is over 13000' which is big by any standard.
Cheerio for now and love,
Peter.
Jesselton
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
It has been a very busy week both inside and outside the office and we have been resting this afternoon. This morning I took Caroline to see the Queen's birthday parade at 6.45 am and watched the Navy, Australians, Gurkhas, Police (in white & red) dress, in a fine ceremony with a lively band. Then shopping and golf and an afternoon's sleep. During the week have finalised the paper work for the take over by one of our agencies as head office for Brunei State and am due to fly up there on 25th and return on 26th/27th to talk things over with the Brunei manager and make sure things are understood for the switch in accounting. Have thoroughly enjoyed this piece of business as it has been a change from routine and is a rare thing to occur at all, so that I have felt that everything was my own work. Apart from that it has been a proving point that I know this particular job well enough for my own satisfaction. This may seem curious but as is quite usual we are self taught in new departments and without having anyone else's work to compare with can seldom be absolutely sure everything is tied up.
Similarly in Inward Bills in Calcutta my proving point was the strike when I had to do everything normally done by clerks as well as my own job. The enclosed card was the invitation to a pretty heavy RN session on Thursday evening. The destroyer was lying off the point and we went out on the Governor's yacht "Petrel" to be taken aboard with all due ceremony and entertained very fully indeed. Being the flotilla leader the ship carried an extra number of Lt Commanders and odds and ends and there seemed to be as many hosts as guests. Last night we had dinner with Mary and Martin Coren who were entertaining four seamen and passed a most enjoyable evening. They were a good bunch of chaps were obviously felt at home right away and were not at all shy. but talked of everything under the sun and did not want to leave when the time came up. We have our do to-morrow - 4 CPOs and a dozen other people to curry tiffin - expect the children will have a lot of attention. They are full of life just now but Adrienne is being treated for worms and Caroline has a rash - but these things are very normal here and modern medicine is very good for clearing things up in a few days. Susan is fighting fit and very energetic kicking hard and lifting her head, smiling and chattering to herself and still consuming vast quantities of milk at breakneck speed.
Wed. Have just received Caroline's card which is a beauty. The curry tiffin went very well and we left to watch a football match at 4.30 - so four hours of entertaining passed off seemingly quickly. They eat everything and seemed to enjoy themselves.
Last night was an early one and we slept very well indeed.
I enclose the photos which are ok. The mountian is over 13000' which is big by any standard.
Cheerio for now and love,
Peter.
8th June 1959
Written on a HSBC Jesselton airmail letter
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter. We have greatly enjoyed our weekend, at Kota Balud. It is not in the hills but we had to travel along many rising twisting narrow roads to cross several hill ridges to get there. We passed through lovely countryside and had good weather. On arrival we found Army around connected with the Seato exercise and saw lines of Battleships at sea from a nearby hill. We were near the 13000 for mountain and could see it clearly. In the early morning the river below the Guest House, ducks, cows and surrounding greenery made it seem to be a part of Switzerland in summer. Several Jesselton people were there so we had quite a party and went around the market on the following day. Margo said she felt that we had been away for a long time - the children were in fine form when we returned to them and did not seem to mind - though were very excited when we arrived. Do not understand how Ian had not backed any horse as he had confirmed it before it was scratched - perhaps you have mixed it up with Ken Rices bit. Still do not know the result as it was not in the local paper.
Shall be pleased to have "Adventure in ? " When you have finished with it. We are invited on board an RN destroyer for cocktails on Wednesday and will be entertaining 4 officers to curry tiffin on Sunday. So we shall be very navel this week. Have taken more photos - mainly of the country so stand by - they will be ready some time in the next few weeks. Have had an enjoyable day on the final reorganisation of accounts - it only remains till July to see if they work. As I dont have to do much I can always blame the other officers if they dont carry out our instructions, which is a happy position to be in.
Cheerio for now and love from
us all Peter.
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter. We have greatly enjoyed our weekend, at Kota Balud. It is not in the hills but we had to travel along many rising twisting narrow roads to cross several hill ridges to get there. We passed through lovely countryside and had good weather. On arrival we found Army around connected with the Seato exercise and saw lines of Battleships at sea from a nearby hill. We were near the 13000 for mountain and could see it clearly. In the early morning the river below the Guest House, ducks, cows and surrounding greenery made it seem to be a part of Switzerland in summer. Several Jesselton people were there so we had quite a party and went around the market on the following day. Margo said she felt that we had been away for a long time - the children were in fine form when we returned to them and did not seem to mind - though were very excited when we arrived. Do not understand how Ian had not backed any horse as he had confirmed it before it was scratched - perhaps you have mixed it up with Ken Rices bit. Still do not know the result as it was not in the local paper.
Shall be pleased to have "Adventure in ? " When you have finished with it. We are invited on board an RN destroyer for cocktails on Wednesday and will be entertaining 4 officers to curry tiffin on Sunday. So we shall be very navel this week. Have taken more photos - mainly of the country so stand by - they will be ready some time in the next few weeks. Have had an enjoyable day on the final reorganisation of accounts - it only remains till July to see if they work. As I dont have to do much I can always blame the other officers if they dont carry out our instructions, which is a happy position to be in.
Cheerio for now and love from
us all Peter.
26th May 59
Written on a HSBC Jesselton airmail letter
Many thanks for your letter and also my birthday present. The tie & socks go well with my green suit and the cravat is a very good design. I have backed Peterman for th eDerby for the name only and Kim Rice has done Lindrick (his name is Kenrick so it is no special tip) through Ian Macleod as I thought it not worth Dad bothering this time. What do you fancy? Went to a Christening on Sunday - the church here is new on modern lines and very beautiful. Shall be arranging Susan's soon and have asked Donald and Dorothy to be godparents. Golf Club dance on Saturday was successful with a good dinner. We left at 3am on Sunday morning. There had been a terrific thunder storm in the afternoon and the outside arrangements were a little damp but did not effect the result in the end. Last night we were out to dinner with Dr Pan - a Chinese gentleman who has a very large collection of orchids and met about twenty other people including a New Zealand Group Captain who is on the SEATO exercises a few miles from here. We hope to go up there for a weekend on 6th June (Kota Belud) but don't know if we will see anything. Queen's birthday on 13th, we are invited to the Governor's reception. There will be a load of army in by then for the new training grounds and two RN ships visiting. Hope to take Caroline to the parade which should be colourful. Have got a cine-film in for developing so will be sending it shortly. Shows lots of the children Paddling Pool, Sea, Beach, Hills, Margo & Self so hope it comes out. Have got a good book to read which you must order at the library "Inside Russia Today" Very readable and your type of interest - I can't put it down - by John Gunther. Susan has slept through to 4.30 -5.30 the last couple of nights so hope she continues. She is in fine form and still well behaved. Jesselton remains a fine spot it seems too good to last!
Cheerio for now and love,
Peter
P.S. If I win on the Derby I really will get that projector!
Many thanks for your letter and also my birthday present. The tie & socks go well with my green suit and the cravat is a very good design. I have backed Peterman for th eDerby for the name only and Kim Rice has done Lindrick (his name is Kenrick so it is no special tip) through Ian Macleod as I thought it not worth Dad bothering this time. What do you fancy? Went to a Christening on Sunday - the church here is new on modern lines and very beautiful. Shall be arranging Susan's soon and have asked Donald and Dorothy to be godparents. Golf Club dance on Saturday was successful with a good dinner. We left at 3am on Sunday morning. There had been a terrific thunder storm in the afternoon and the outside arrangements were a little damp but did not effect the result in the end. Last night we were out to dinner with Dr Pan - a Chinese gentleman who has a very large collection of orchids and met about twenty other people including a New Zealand Group Captain who is on the SEATO exercises a few miles from here. We hope to go up there for a weekend on 6th June (Kota Belud) but don't know if we will see anything. Queen's birthday on 13th, we are invited to the Governor's reception. There will be a load of army in by then for the new training grounds and two RN ships visiting. Hope to take Caroline to the parade which should be colourful. Have got a cine-film in for developing so will be sending it shortly. Shows lots of the children Paddling Pool, Sea, Beach, Hills, Margo & Self so hope it comes out. Have got a good book to read which you must order at the library "Inside Russia Today" Very readable and your type of interest - I can't put it down - by John Gunther. Susan has slept through to 4.30 -5.30 the last couple of nights so hope she continues. She is in fine form and still well behaved. Jesselton remains a fine spot it seems too good to last!
Cheerio for now and love,
Peter
P.S. If I win on the Derby I really will get that projector!
Friday, November 6, 2009
6th May 1959
Written on a HSBC Jesselton airmail letter
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
The first news of supreme importance is that Adrienne can now walk! She staggered her first few steps last week and found it so much fun that she has kept going. She can now be seen to be pretty tall - certainly taller than Caroline at similar age and of course fairly beefy though some of that surplus fat has already gone. Thank you for the brush set for Susan, it was very good of you. It is difficult to say what toy Caroline would appreciate. She likes things with a touch of realism so that she can copy Margo with the baby. A toy iron perhaps - but she has a lot of things she doesn't bother about. The tricycle is in daily use still and I am shipping in a paddling pool from Singapore so that they can splash about by the house. We seldom manage to take them down to the beach and in any case there has been a flock of jelly fish about lately. Thank you too for my birthday card - we are having 1/2 doz people to dinner to-morrow to celebrate. Caroline does speak sentences a lot of which is difficult to understand but she does improve and has a lot to say. She knows a lot about the servants, & the gardener and trots off by herself to the Accts house down the hill - it was some time before we knew she was doing this as we couldn't follow her recital of events. Glad Alan & Donald are to go to-gether - Imagine they will get around a bit and really see things. Dons A50 sounds OK. I notice that you are planning your trip to Scotland and confusing the issue with everyone elses movements. Alan can look after himself, you ought to know that by now. When you have the house report your absence at the police station, it doesn't matter if the whole road is empty so just go when you wish. We laughed at Mauds' comment on Susan's birth announcement. The only other Briggs in Borneo is a "Justice" so they should not get us mixed up. Have just got a new record from Hongkong - "Carmen Jones" from the film sound track. It is a beauty and at full volume is very lively! Am very glad I bought the record player as there is not much on the wireless. Susan continues to progress she is putting on plenty of weight and is a good length. (height) Margo is fit and had a successful inspection at the hospital. Ian having golf lessons from a friend at the Golf Club and it makes an improvement. I won a cigarette lighter at a dance last week and a few days later a packet of tees at darts on a club night but no more Premium Bonds just yet! Cheers for now and lots of love from us all Margo Peter Caroline and Susan. X (by Caroline)
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
The first news of supreme importance is that Adrienne can now walk! She staggered her first few steps last week and found it so much fun that she has kept going. She can now be seen to be pretty tall - certainly taller than Caroline at similar age and of course fairly beefy though some of that surplus fat has already gone. Thank you for the brush set for Susan, it was very good of you. It is difficult to say what toy Caroline would appreciate. She likes things with a touch of realism so that she can copy Margo with the baby. A toy iron perhaps - but she has a lot of things she doesn't bother about. The tricycle is in daily use still and I am shipping in a paddling pool from Singapore so that they can splash about by the house. We seldom manage to take them down to the beach and in any case there has been a flock of jelly fish about lately. Thank you too for my birthday card - we are having 1/2 doz people to dinner to-morrow to celebrate. Caroline does speak sentences a lot of which is difficult to understand but she does improve and has a lot to say. She knows a lot about the servants, & the gardener and trots off by herself to the Accts house down the hill - it was some time before we knew she was doing this as we couldn't follow her recital of events. Glad Alan & Donald are to go to-gether - Imagine they will get around a bit and really see things. Dons A50 sounds OK. I notice that you are planning your trip to Scotland and confusing the issue with everyone elses movements. Alan can look after himself, you ought to know that by now. When you have the house report your absence at the police station, it doesn't matter if the whole road is empty so just go when you wish. We laughed at Mauds' comment on Susan's birth announcement. The only other Briggs in Borneo is a "Justice" so they should not get us mixed up. Have just got a new record from Hongkong - "Carmen Jones" from the film sound track. It is a beauty and at full volume is very lively! Am very glad I bought the record player as there is not much on the wireless. Susan continues to progress she is putting on plenty of weight and is a good length. (height) Margo is fit and had a successful inspection at the hospital. Ian having golf lessons from a friend at the Golf Club and it makes an improvement. I won a cigarette lighter at a dance last week and a few days later a packet of tees at darts on a club night but no more Premium Bonds just yet! Cheers for now and lots of love from us all Margo Peter Caroline and Susan. X (by Caroline)
6th May 1959
Written on a HSBC Jesselton airmail letter
Dear Mr and Mrs Martin,
Thank you very much for your letter, it is good to hear from you. Susan is doing very well and is much the best behaved of the three, and putting on weight, sleeping and doing all the right things without too much fuss. Adrienne is walking now and consequently is in a continuous pickle. Caroline on occasion acts in grown up fashion and tells her off, but for the most part she is up to her neck in trouble too. They have great fun with the cat and two kittens and a giant Boxer which visits us daily and are in perpetual motion from the moment they awake to bedtime. (Even then they manage not to sleep for some time.) Margo is fit and has made a grand recovery. Mainly, I think, because Borneo is such a very pleasant place after Calcutta. I myself feel 100% fitter than I did there. The morning and Night Sky of Borneo is full of beauty. We have the grandeur of the hills behind us with one large mountain sticking up into the clouds and to the front the sun flames down setting in flashes and streaks of brilliant colour. Rain last week (the first for months) formed rising clouds below the house and water sheeted down into the thick vegetation which surrounds us and the cracks in our driveway widened. The lightening kept the phone ringing and eventually cut off the electricity for several house. A week before we had a minor forest fire opposite the house and Margo dialed '999'. They soon had it under control but nearby houses were a bit scorched. Never a dull moment. The children take everything in their stride, even the blasting which is going on, one a nearby hill. The builders are trying to find rock on which to build the Governor's house and at 5 pm daily they use another stick of dynamite. This has been going on since we arrived and the hill is getting flatter and flatter, but so far no rock. Our best wishes to you and to Joyce & Tom, Rita & Fred,
Margo, Peter, Caroline, Adrienne and Susan
(The Martins were neighbours of my grandmother and lived at 74, Tamworth Park, Mitcham, Surrey UK. The other names in the best wishes were also neighbours.)
Dear Mr and Mrs Martin,
Thank you very much for your letter, it is good to hear from you. Susan is doing very well and is much the best behaved of the three, and putting on weight, sleeping and doing all the right things without too much fuss. Adrienne is walking now and consequently is in a continuous pickle. Caroline on occasion acts in grown up fashion and tells her off, but for the most part she is up to her neck in trouble too. They have great fun with the cat and two kittens and a giant Boxer which visits us daily and are in perpetual motion from the moment they awake to bedtime. (Even then they manage not to sleep for some time.) Margo is fit and has made a grand recovery. Mainly, I think, because Borneo is such a very pleasant place after Calcutta. I myself feel 100% fitter than I did there. The morning and Night Sky of Borneo is full of beauty. We have the grandeur of the hills behind us with one large mountain sticking up into the clouds and to the front the sun flames down setting in flashes and streaks of brilliant colour. Rain last week (the first for months) formed rising clouds below the house and water sheeted down into the thick vegetation which surrounds us and the cracks in our driveway widened. The lightening kept the phone ringing and eventually cut off the electricity for several house. A week before we had a minor forest fire opposite the house and Margo dialed '999'. They soon had it under control but nearby houses were a bit scorched. Never a dull moment. The children take everything in their stride, even the blasting which is going on, one a nearby hill. The builders are trying to find rock on which to build the Governor's house and at 5 pm daily they use another stick of dynamite. This has been going on since we arrived and the hill is getting flatter and flatter, but so far no rock. Our best wishes to you and to Joyce & Tom, Rita & Fred,
Margo, Peter, Caroline, Adrienne and Susan
(The Martins were neighbours of my grandmother and lived at 74, Tamworth Park, Mitcham, Surrey UK. The other names in the best wishes were also neighbours.)
Monday, November 2, 2009
Undated but probably end of March 1959
H. & S.B.C. Jesselton
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan
Very many thanks for your letter, am glad you are pleased with all your grand-daughters, they do seem to be quite a bunch at the moment. I brought Margo and Susan home on Thursday, both in good order. Margo seems very well and Susan is behaving herself - sleeping and eating better I think, than the other two did. Margo is not attempting to fee Susan herself and this makes life a lot easier. The baby gets the right quantity of food at the right time without complications. The birth was without instruments, but was a sideways one - and two stitches so it was not very easy. However, the rest in hospital did a lot of good and the initial recovery & contraction all in good order. And Margo looks very well in herself.
Ian certainly gets on with things - it certainly is an honour to be Master - and wise of Henry to make the trip - I sympathise with the lumbago its a rotten thing to have. Thanks Dad, for your note - expect you are busy in the garden just now and hope the spring and summer are worth while - think you are due for a hot one. Am including a few photos which I haven't enlarged yet but expect they will come up under a magnifying glass. Am pleased with the childrens'. Managed the full shot of the house, but from a distance of 1/4 mile being the nearest convenient point. The small building to the right is the garage and the end of our drive which comes in from the road somewhere out of the picture to the left. It does look a bit jungly doesn't it? We had a snake quite close to us and of course plenty of monkeys. But the thing that worries us is a harmless flying beetle about the size of a walnut which crashes against the screens and emits a screetching buzz. A lizard fell on Margo last night and fell down the back of her dress but was got rid of without difficulty. Otherwise things are ordinary but we could do with some rain. This Easter weekend we have had four days holiday and two games of golf have left me a little sunburnt. Thursday night I went to a Chinese wedding dinner and ate all the usual good things then spent Friday in a slow recovery.
Am taking some pictures of Susan and will send them shortly - we think she will look like Margo but at the moment seems different from the other two so our threesome will be quite a mixture.
Cheerio and love from us all,
Peter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan
Very many thanks for your letter, am glad you are pleased with all your grand-daughters, they do seem to be quite a bunch at the moment. I brought Margo and Susan home on Thursday, both in good order. Margo seems very well and Susan is behaving herself - sleeping and eating better I think, than the other two did. Margo is not attempting to fee Susan herself and this makes life a lot easier. The baby gets the right quantity of food at the right time without complications. The birth was without instruments, but was a sideways one - and two stitches so it was not very easy. However, the rest in hospital did a lot of good and the initial recovery & contraction all in good order. And Margo looks very well in herself.
Ian certainly gets on with things - it certainly is an honour to be Master - and wise of Henry to make the trip - I sympathise with the lumbago its a rotten thing to have. Thanks Dad, for your note - expect you are busy in the garden just now and hope the spring and summer are worth while - think you are due for a hot one. Am including a few photos which I haven't enlarged yet but expect they will come up under a magnifying glass. Am pleased with the childrens'. Managed the full shot of the house, but from a distance of 1/4 mile being the nearest convenient point. The small building to the right is the garage and the end of our drive which comes in from the road somewhere out of the picture to the left. It does look a bit jungly doesn't it? We had a snake quite close to us and of course plenty of monkeys. But the thing that worries us is a harmless flying beetle about the size of a walnut which crashes against the screens and emits a screetching buzz. A lizard fell on Margo last night and fell down the back of her dress but was got rid of without difficulty. Otherwise things are ordinary but we could do with some rain. This Easter weekend we have had four days holiday and two games of golf have left me a little sunburnt. Thursday night I went to a Chinese wedding dinner and ate all the usual good things then spent Friday in a slow recovery.
Am taking some pictures of Susan and will send them shortly - we think she will look like Margo but at the moment seems different from the other two so our threesome will be quite a mixture.
Cheerio and love from us all,
Peter.
Friday, October 9, 2009
March 25th 59
Written on HSBC Jesselton airmail letter
Scribbled at top in pencil "Margo is coming home today Thursday. Thanks for your ? and hope you are all well. Love Peter.
My dear Mum & Dad,
Another little granddaughter for you! Peter doesn't seem to mind that he is destined to be surrounded by women for the rest of his life! Susan Marguerite is a dear little soul, dark & looks rather like Adrienne did as a baby. I have decided not to feed her myself so I'm having plenty of rest as the student nurses like to give her a bottle - this is a boon at 6am & 10pm! I am very comfortable in the hospital & have a large room with balcony & bathroom attached - also air-conditioning which I am making the most of as it is very hot & dusty in Jesselton at the moment. My stitches are coming out today so I shall probably go home tomorrow in time for Easter. Peter has 4 days off which will make a nice break for him.
Caroline is thrilled with Susan & wants to know why she can't sleep in her own cot at home instead of the hospital cradle. As for Adrienne, she gave me an unseeing stare when she visited me & then interested herself in the air -conditioner. she acknowledged Susan by a hefty pat on the head!
Peter has taken some more snaps of C & A so I'm hoping that they will come out well. Adrienne has grown a great deal since we have been here & I think she will start walking very soon.
We have three European nurses at this hospital - a matron & 2 sisters. All are very pleasant & Sister Smith, who actually delivered Susan was a great comfort (even tho' she was called out at 2am & Susan didn't arrive until 2.40pm!)
I'm glad Alan has now passed his test, - he will get a lot of enjoyment out of his car. Now that Susan has arrived I must concentrate on passing my test so that I can get about more. Caroline enjoys her swimming so much that it will be nice to be able to take her to the beach during the week. Also Adrienne enjoyed paddling the last time we took her down so I expect she will soon want a rubber ring like Caroline. Did Peter tell you that one of our kittens has died - I'm not really sorry as the mother & one other will be quite enough to have around.
Hoping you are all well & are having some Spring weather love from Margo. Big kisses from Caroline & Adrienne & a little kiss from Susan.
Scribbled at top in pencil "Margo is coming home today Thursday. Thanks for your ? and hope you are all well. Love Peter.
My dear Mum & Dad,
Another little granddaughter for you! Peter doesn't seem to mind that he is destined to be surrounded by women for the rest of his life! Susan Marguerite is a dear little soul, dark & looks rather like Adrienne did as a baby. I have decided not to feed her myself so I'm having plenty of rest as the student nurses like to give her a bottle - this is a boon at 6am & 10pm! I am very comfortable in the hospital & have a large room with balcony & bathroom attached - also air-conditioning which I am making the most of as it is very hot & dusty in Jesselton at the moment. My stitches are coming out today so I shall probably go home tomorrow in time for Easter. Peter has 4 days off which will make a nice break for him.
Caroline is thrilled with Susan & wants to know why she can't sleep in her own cot at home instead of the hospital cradle. As for Adrienne, she gave me an unseeing stare when she visited me & then interested herself in the air -conditioner. she acknowledged Susan by a hefty pat on the head!
Peter has taken some more snaps of C & A so I'm hoping that they will come out well. Adrienne has grown a great deal since we have been here & I think she will start walking very soon.
We have three European nurses at this hospital - a matron & 2 sisters. All are very pleasant & Sister Smith, who actually delivered Susan was a great comfort (even tho' she was called out at 2am & Susan didn't arrive until 2.40pm!)
I'm glad Alan has now passed his test, - he will get a lot of enjoyment out of his car. Now that Susan has arrived I must concentrate on passing my test so that I can get about more. Caroline enjoys her swimming so much that it will be nice to be able to take her to the beach during the week. Also Adrienne enjoyed paddling the last time we took her down so I expect she will soon want a rubber ring like Caroline. Did Peter tell you that one of our kittens has died - I'm not really sorry as the mother & one other will be quite enough to have around.
Hoping you are all well & are having some Spring weather love from Margo. Big kisses from Caroline & Adrienne & a little kiss from Susan.
18th March 59
Written on HSBC Jesselton airmail letter.
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Well once again everything is over and just fine. I took Margo in yesterday evening when nothing much was happening. A comfortable bedroom, very cool with private bathroom. Things started at 1.30 am and went slowly on. I saw her at 7.30 am 12am 2pm and by then the time was getting close. Had a ring in the office and Susan had arrived at 2.40pm. A drawn out business but Margo was fine though the usual stitches were put in. I saw her at 4pm when she returned to her room and we had tea to-gether. The sister there was very good indeed and helped a lot. Margo is now having a well earned sleep and I shall see her again this evening. Her room is on the ground floor and opens onto the main square of the hospital so I can pop in and out whenever I want to. The other two children are doing well and are at the moment visiting two small boys on the coast and am just off to pick them up.
Cheerio for now and love Peter
P.S. I ought not to have anymore washing up to do on leave!
Shall put the birth in Telegraph P.
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Well once again everything is over and just fine. I took Margo in yesterday evening when nothing much was happening. A comfortable bedroom, very cool with private bathroom. Things started at 1.30 am and went slowly on. I saw her at 7.30 am 12am 2pm and by then the time was getting close. Had a ring in the office and Susan had arrived at 2.40pm. A drawn out business but Margo was fine though the usual stitches were put in. I saw her at 4pm when she returned to her room and we had tea to-gether. The sister there was very good indeed and helped a lot. Margo is now having a well earned sleep and I shall see her again this evening. Her room is on the ground floor and opens onto the main square of the hospital so I can pop in and out whenever I want to. The other two children are doing well and are at the moment visiting two small boys on the coast and am just off to pick them up.
Cheerio for now and love Peter
P.S. I ought not to have anymore washing up to do on leave!
Shall put the birth in Telegraph P.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
3rd March 1959
The H & SBC Jesselton
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Your letter has not arrived yet but thought I would get this off whilst the weekend was fresh in my memory. The Duke arrived on time and we were all down at the bank before the roads closed, Margo, myself, the two children and the two amahs. We were joined by five other people and had chairs out in the portico of the bank and relaxed - it was quite hot and the only other people around were a group of boy scouts about fifty yards away and photographers on a wall on the other side of the road. So when the party came by, they had passed through the town with the majority of people there, the Duke was still standing and gave us a wave before he sat down. Being occupied with cameras we vaguely waved back, but being so close waving seemed a little too personal a thing to do! He circled shortly after he passed us and came back on a parallel road, so we strolled across and he passed us once again, sitting down this time, and I got a photo- I think - the first one had jammed. A couple of beers from the fridge in the bank concluded that episode and we made our way back to the house to prepare for the races. The bank have their own box to hold about a dozen. It is not so luxurious as it sounds but nevertheless is exclusive. There are only half a dozen at the top of the stands with sides three feet in height. The Duke arrived with native horsemen in front and behind and swung himself over the side of his car just below us - I hope I have a picture there - then came to sit two boxes away. When he strolled to the rear to see the horses in the ring he was very close. Too close to use a camera without embarrassment - so Margo had a lot of compensation for not attending the reception in the evening. The events at the races were quite amusing, a bullock race seeming a little out of place on a race track. The native horsemen, who did a charge past the front of the stands were very colourfully dressed carrying lances and wearing Kris and parangs, Their horses had necklets of bells and gaily coloured saddles and cavorted skittishly - about a hundred or so - to make an unusual show for the spectators.
It was indeed fortunated that Margo did not attend in the evening because the queue was about twenty deep and very hot for an hour or more. This was the only thing that was not organised well, but as everything else was so very good one must not grumble. HRH was shaking hands for two hours - what an effort! He said "good evening" to me, we shook hands and I made my bow, then was swiftly off. In words it does not seem to be much and yet I was impressed by it. He is an amazing person - Haymes, our manager here, had had a chat with him when he first landed in the morning and was questioned about the local sailing in which Haymes is a leading light. He gives the impression of being intensly interested in everything with a useful air of informality.
The colony display is indeed a showpiece and according to report the visiting high powered press who needs must be a little blase about these things, thought it the best thing of the tour. Within a comparatively small area is exhibited in a most natural way the whole of the native colony life. All the different types of dwelling houses, agricultural and fishing exhibits, orchids [gathered from Kinabalu mountain by Mary Curren (wife of our accountant) and one other lady, they were away two weeks to get them] nets, boats, dance floors, dragon dances, rubber processing. We spent Monday morning there watching the dances and taking on or two photos when the subject was in sunlight. The horsemen made their horses dance - everyone was dancing in one corner or another - and then a simulated pirate raid was put on with native craft beflagged and popping off cannon like a Hollywood film sequence. The beer we consumed after this at the mess opposite the display just evaporated! The afternoon called for a gently sleep, but at seven we were on the bank roof with Caroline and a dozen other people with attendant bottles and glasses to watch a firework display over the sea front. Caroline took sometime to get used to the bangs but eventually she plucked up courage to look - then was very excited and was very well behaved till nine oclock when we finally put her to bed. She has been full of it all day to-day although occupied with a Siamese cat which has attached itself to us. It is about to have kittens and Mary Curren brought it back from her trip because it was not being looked after at the Rest House. However, it won't stay with the Curren's because they have a large slobbering Boxer - also a friend of Caroline's. The dog also visits us and Adrienne really gets going when she sees either the dog or the cat - I hate to think what is going to happen when the kittens arrive. I think I have omitted to mention that Caroline can handle her tricycle very well now and peddles with great vigour, but is stumped on the uphill bits - it is without doubt her favorite toy. Adrienne is all but walking and can play Ring a ring a Roses with Caroline and myselft - especially the falling down part.
Cheerio for now and love from us all,
Peter
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Your letter has not arrived yet but thought I would get this off whilst the weekend was fresh in my memory. The Duke arrived on time and we were all down at the bank before the roads closed, Margo, myself, the two children and the two amahs. We were joined by five other people and had chairs out in the portico of the bank and relaxed - it was quite hot and the only other people around were a group of boy scouts about fifty yards away and photographers on a wall on the other side of the road. So when the party came by, they had passed through the town with the majority of people there, the Duke was still standing and gave us a wave before he sat down. Being occupied with cameras we vaguely waved back, but being so close waving seemed a little too personal a thing to do! He circled shortly after he passed us and came back on a parallel road, so we strolled across and he passed us once again, sitting down this time, and I got a photo- I think - the first one had jammed. A couple of beers from the fridge in the bank concluded that episode and we made our way back to the house to prepare for the races. The bank have their own box to hold about a dozen. It is not so luxurious as it sounds but nevertheless is exclusive. There are only half a dozen at the top of the stands with sides three feet in height. The Duke arrived with native horsemen in front and behind and swung himself over the side of his car just below us - I hope I have a picture there - then came to sit two boxes away. When he strolled to the rear to see the horses in the ring he was very close. Too close to use a camera without embarrassment - so Margo had a lot of compensation for not attending the reception in the evening. The events at the races were quite amusing, a bullock race seeming a little out of place on a race track. The native horsemen, who did a charge past the front of the stands were very colourfully dressed carrying lances and wearing Kris and parangs, Their horses had necklets of bells and gaily coloured saddles and cavorted skittishly - about a hundred or so - to make an unusual show for the spectators.
It was indeed fortunated that Margo did not attend in the evening because the queue was about twenty deep and very hot for an hour or more. This was the only thing that was not organised well, but as everything else was so very good one must not grumble. HRH was shaking hands for two hours - what an effort! He said "good evening" to me, we shook hands and I made my bow, then was swiftly off. In words it does not seem to be much and yet I was impressed by it. He is an amazing person - Haymes, our manager here, had had a chat with him when he first landed in the morning and was questioned about the local sailing in which Haymes is a leading light. He gives the impression of being intensly interested in everything with a useful air of informality.
The colony display is indeed a showpiece and according to report the visiting high powered press who needs must be a little blase about these things, thought it the best thing of the tour. Within a comparatively small area is exhibited in a most natural way the whole of the native colony life. All the different types of dwelling houses, agricultural and fishing exhibits, orchids [gathered from Kinabalu mountain by Mary Curren (wife of our accountant) and one other lady, they were away two weeks to get them] nets, boats, dance floors, dragon dances, rubber processing. We spent Monday morning there watching the dances and taking on or two photos when the subject was in sunlight. The horsemen made their horses dance - everyone was dancing in one corner or another - and then a simulated pirate raid was put on with native craft beflagged and popping off cannon like a Hollywood film sequence. The beer we consumed after this at the mess opposite the display just evaporated! The afternoon called for a gently sleep, but at seven we were on the bank roof with Caroline and a dozen other people with attendant bottles and glasses to watch a firework display over the sea front. Caroline took sometime to get used to the bangs but eventually she plucked up courage to look - then was very excited and was very well behaved till nine oclock when we finally put her to bed. She has been full of it all day to-day although occupied with a Siamese cat which has attached itself to us. It is about to have kittens and Mary Curren brought it back from her trip because it was not being looked after at the Rest House. However, it won't stay with the Curren's because they have a large slobbering Boxer - also a friend of Caroline's. The dog also visits us and Adrienne really gets going when she sees either the dog or the cat - I hate to think what is going to happen when the kittens arrive. I think I have omitted to mention that Caroline can handle her tricycle very well now and peddles with great vigour, but is stumped on the uphill bits - it is without doubt her favorite toy. Adrienne is all but walking and can play Ring a ring a Roses with Caroline and myselft - especially the falling down part.
Cheerio for now and love from us all,
Peter
16th Feb 1959
Written on HSBC Jesselton airmail letter
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Your cold weather and the reports of it, with fog that we read about in The Telegraph, make us quite content not to be there. It has been a little hotter during the past few days but managed nine holes of golf on Sunday and then went in the sea for some water skiing. One of the people from Borneo Company has a boat and set of skis and a crowd of us have a go on Sundays. I could not get up - the start is a bit tricky at firs, but expect to do it another time. One gets half upright, then whoosh - over backwards and start again. I did not know John was going back to Hongkong - is he with a civilian firm? Neither did I know Alan had partly purchased a car - what type? My finances are OK and we will save a bit here at present estimates. It is only on leave that we get short and of course there was a lot to get last time - I estimate we need 700 pounds for the next one as a minimum but guess we can manage it in time. The maternity ? should be covered provided the insurance can remit from India. I did receive Dad's 6 pounds - thought I had mentioned it - thanks very much. Shall get around to describing Jesselton one day, though there is not a lot of it. Two main streets with new buildings parallel to the water front, ten minutes from the office and up hill finds our house. There is a lot of hill and relatively little flat ground fro Jesselton to exist on. Ten minutes along the coast road brings one to the Golf Club and halfway along is the hospital and Secretariat where the Duke's reception is to be held. Two main roads go inland for twenty plus miles and these we have yet to investigate. We hope to take some photos in due course but many of the shots I want depend greatly on the position of the sun and the time of day and I shall have to plan accordingly - have no need to rush it. The family continues to be well. We have visited the local cinemas twice and had Chinese food afterwards. I went to a Chinese dinner - a business occasion and ate a huge amount - I thought we had finished twice before we actually did. Going to dinner with a Donald Jones & family of Cable & Wireless tonight. He is very busy planning transmissions of pictures for the Dukes visit.
Cheerio for now & Love Peter
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Your cold weather and the reports of it, with fog that we read about in The Telegraph, make us quite content not to be there. It has been a little hotter during the past few days but managed nine holes of golf on Sunday and then went in the sea for some water skiing. One of the people from Borneo Company has a boat and set of skis and a crowd of us have a go on Sundays. I could not get up - the start is a bit tricky at firs, but expect to do it another time. One gets half upright, then whoosh - over backwards and start again. I did not know John was going back to Hongkong - is he with a civilian firm? Neither did I know Alan had partly purchased a car - what type? My finances are OK and we will save a bit here at present estimates. It is only on leave that we get short and of course there was a lot to get last time - I estimate we need 700 pounds for the next one as a minimum but guess we can manage it in time. The maternity ? should be covered provided the insurance can remit from India. I did receive Dad's 6 pounds - thought I had mentioned it - thanks very much. Shall get around to describing Jesselton one day, though there is not a lot of it. Two main streets with new buildings parallel to the water front, ten minutes from the office and up hill finds our house. There is a lot of hill and relatively little flat ground fro Jesselton to exist on. Ten minutes along the coast road brings one to the Golf Club and halfway along is the hospital and Secretariat where the Duke's reception is to be held. Two main roads go inland for twenty plus miles and these we have yet to investigate. We hope to take some photos in due course but many of the shots I want depend greatly on the position of the sun and the time of day and I shall have to plan accordingly - have no need to rush it. The family continues to be well. We have visited the local cinemas twice and had Chinese food afterwards. I went to a Chinese dinner - a business occasion and ate a huge amount - I thought we had finished twice before we actually did. Going to dinner with a Donald Jones & family of Cable & Wireless tonight. He is very busy planning transmissions of pictures for the Dukes visit.
Cheerio for now & Love Peter
Friday, August 21, 2009
31.1.59
Written on a HSBC Jesselton Airmail letter.
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
The last day of the month and a Saturday afternoon in the office - still it is very pleasant in comparison with many other places I have been in . The sun is setting now and the light is streaming in over my shoulder as I write with a soft cool breeze making the day a comfortable one. It can be hot and sticky here, but not for many days at a time and though my work is of a very routine nature I cannot complain of overwork. We are just a little busy at the end of quarters and on occasion when bills pile up and have to be processed in a short space of time. This is offset by not having air conditioning and not having a staff which is overbright so that one works at a much slower pace than is usual - but they are a cheery lot and very friendly - a much more enjoyable office than Calcutta. your calender arrived for which, many thanks and also your letter - I have left this at home so cannot remember if you had any queries. Hin E Calling (???) the Governor has invited us to meet the Duke of Edinburgh on March 1st at a Reception at 9.30 pm. About 500 people are going so suppose it to cover all the Europeans in Jesselton. Margo is doubtful about attending as it will involve a lot of standing about and it would be unfortunate to say the least if she felt ill in such a crush and not be able to get away. I expect I shall go if nothing prevents me. Everything is being decorated and there is great excitement. We shall see displays of native life which we would not do otherwise and various things will be sold in a special market, so perhasp we may make some interesting purchases. Caroline is well but A. is having teething pain at times though now rockets across the floor and climbs onto chairs at great speed. She is very broad across the back and is a hefty lump to carry - hope she walks soon.
Cheerio for now and Love from as all Peter.
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
The last day of the month and a Saturday afternoon in the office - still it is very pleasant in comparison with many other places I have been in . The sun is setting now and the light is streaming in over my shoulder as I write with a soft cool breeze making the day a comfortable one. It can be hot and sticky here, but not for many days at a time and though my work is of a very routine nature I cannot complain of overwork. We are just a little busy at the end of quarters and on occasion when bills pile up and have to be processed in a short space of time. This is offset by not having air conditioning and not having a staff which is overbright so that one works at a much slower pace than is usual - but they are a cheery lot and very friendly - a much more enjoyable office than Calcutta. your calender arrived for which, many thanks and also your letter - I have left this at home so cannot remember if you had any queries. Hin E Calling (???) the Governor has invited us to meet the Duke of Edinburgh on March 1st at a Reception at 9.30 pm. About 500 people are going so suppose it to cover all the Europeans in Jesselton. Margo is doubtful about attending as it will involve a lot of standing about and it would be unfortunate to say the least if she felt ill in such a crush and not be able to get away. I expect I shall go if nothing prevents me. Everything is being decorated and there is great excitement. We shall see displays of native life which we would not do otherwise and various things will be sold in a special market, so perhasp we may make some interesting purchases. Caroline is well but A. is having teething pain at times though now rockets across the floor and climbs onto chairs at great speed. She is very broad across the back and is a hefty lump to carry - hope she walks soon.
Cheerio for now and Love from as all Peter.
January 14th 1958
Hongkong & Shanghai Bank
P.O. B 98
British North Borneo
(Editor's note. The date on this letter should be 1959)
My dear Mum & Dad,
Peter has been going to answer your letter all week but so far I haven't seen him start doing so! - so I've decided to write myself & send you a few photos which Peter has also been going to send for ages. He has been very busy over the end of the year & is now doing returns which keep him rather occupied. Adrienne sleeps in the study (so-called) as I found that she & Caroline are better apart. While they shared the same room, Caroline would wake about 4.30 am & then woke Adrienne who wasn't very happy about it. Now Caroline goes back to sleep until about 6 am which is a rather more respectable hour. They will have to go back together eventually but Adrienne will be older and I hope (?) will go back to sleep if woken.
Adrienne is progressing and has just pulled herself up by my chair - she doesn't stand for very long but at least it's a start. She is cutting another tooth & is very snuffly - rather like an asthmatical old man! Caroline has vanished at the moment & I rather suspect that I shall find her in the kitchen where the servants are having their meal. They seem to eat about 10.30 am & 6.30 pm and to do so they sit on little stools around a minute round table. I think that Caroline enjoys sitting on the stool altho' she likes the rice etc as well. I've no doubt that she will master the art of chop sticks very quickly! As for Adrienne I'm sure that she will be speaking Chinese before English as the Baby Amah chats to her all day in her version of Chinese/Malay which she speaks.
We have an excellent hospital here with a European Matron & two sisters and three European doctors. I believe the hospital has been recently built & has about 14 ist class rooms which have their own bathroom & toilet attached as well as being air-conditioned. Rather a change from the Elgin Nursing Home where about 60 or more people shared 4 bathrooms. I feel very fit but shall be glad when March 16th comes along. I have to go to the hospital clinic every fortnight now - apart from myself there are only two other European women attending. Also a change from Clta - I heard from Biddy Sawtell yesterday that 40 European babies were born in the Elgin during Dec & 40 are due in January! Biddy was the friend who lost her second baby - she has just had another boy without any bother.
We thoroughly enjoyed Xmas although we should have liked to have been with you all at home. Both children had loads of toys so it was rather an exciting morning opening all the parcels. We had very nice gifts from Hilda & Henry - I still haven't written to thank them but I seem to have written dozens of letters this month - Peter will be complaining about the postage bill!
We have been plagued by these wretched Kampong dogs who persisted in rushing around the house all night. panting & then howling & barking under the bedroom windows. It was impossible to aim anything at them because of the screens & Peter & I began to think that we should have to put down poison for them, after having had several sleepless nights. However I sent Ho Choy to speak to the Kampong inhabitants about them & to ask them to chain the dogs up at night & luckily they seem to have done so far out nights are now undisturbed - we are used to the occasional barking & cock crowing.
The car arrived on Saturday & hasn't a scratch on it although a peculiar 'knocking' has appeared! I shall have to pass my test otherwise I shall be isolated up here. Has Alan sat for his test yet? I expect he will pass first time. Barbara is hoping for a girl, so hope she is lucky - when in June is Emma expecting her baby - do you know? Peter & I are still undecided over a girls name and just cannot agree over any! The photos enclosed are 1) a group taken at the Managers staff tea party just before Xmas. Caroline is sitting on the Manager's wife's knee. We left Adrienne at home as the afternoon was rather showery. The three bachelors here disgraced themselves by arriving after the photo had been taken!
2) Caroline in her fancy dress - looking rather dishevelled and not quite sure what was going on. I've put in a few snaps (these are the throw-outs!) as well - our last batch weren't very successful but we are having copies taken which we will be sending. (of the better ones.)
Must close now so that Peter can send this letter this afternoon - I shall probably find that he has written to you this morning 1 - but at least I'm sending the photos!
We hear that you are having a freeze-up - hope it isnt too bad & that you are all well.
Love from us all & big kisses from
Caroline & Adrienne, Margo & Peter.
P.O. B 98
British North Borneo
(Editor's note. The date on this letter should be 1959)
My dear Mum & Dad,
Peter has been going to answer your letter all week but so far I haven't seen him start doing so! - so I've decided to write myself & send you a few photos which Peter has also been going to send for ages. He has been very busy over the end of the year & is now doing returns which keep him rather occupied. Adrienne sleeps in the study (so-called) as I found that she & Caroline are better apart. While they shared the same room, Caroline would wake about 4.30 am & then woke Adrienne who wasn't very happy about it. Now Caroline goes back to sleep until about 6 am which is a rather more respectable hour. They will have to go back together eventually but Adrienne will be older and I hope (?) will go back to sleep if woken.
Adrienne is progressing and has just pulled herself up by my chair - she doesn't stand for very long but at least it's a start. She is cutting another tooth & is very snuffly - rather like an asthmatical old man! Caroline has vanished at the moment & I rather suspect that I shall find her in the kitchen where the servants are having their meal. They seem to eat about 10.30 am & 6.30 pm and to do so they sit on little stools around a minute round table. I think that Caroline enjoys sitting on the stool altho' she likes the rice etc as well. I've no doubt that she will master the art of chop sticks very quickly! As for Adrienne I'm sure that she will be speaking Chinese before English as the Baby Amah chats to her all day in her version of Chinese/Malay which she speaks.
We have an excellent hospital here with a European Matron & two sisters and three European doctors. I believe the hospital has been recently built & has about 14 ist class rooms which have their own bathroom & toilet attached as well as being air-conditioned. Rather a change from the Elgin Nursing Home where about 60 or more people shared 4 bathrooms. I feel very fit but shall be glad when March 16th comes along. I have to go to the hospital clinic every fortnight now - apart from myself there are only two other European women attending. Also a change from Clta - I heard from Biddy Sawtell yesterday that 40 European babies were born in the Elgin during Dec & 40 are due in January! Biddy was the friend who lost her second baby - she has just had another boy without any bother.
We thoroughly enjoyed Xmas although we should have liked to have been with you all at home. Both children had loads of toys so it was rather an exciting morning opening all the parcels. We had very nice gifts from Hilda & Henry - I still haven't written to thank them but I seem to have written dozens of letters this month - Peter will be complaining about the postage bill!
We have been plagued by these wretched Kampong dogs who persisted in rushing around the house all night. panting & then howling & barking under the bedroom windows. It was impossible to aim anything at them because of the screens & Peter & I began to think that we should have to put down poison for them, after having had several sleepless nights. However I sent Ho Choy to speak to the Kampong inhabitants about them & to ask them to chain the dogs up at night & luckily they seem to have done so far out nights are now undisturbed - we are used to the occasional barking & cock crowing.
The car arrived on Saturday & hasn't a scratch on it although a peculiar 'knocking' has appeared! I shall have to pass my test otherwise I shall be isolated up here. Has Alan sat for his test yet? I expect he will pass first time. Barbara is hoping for a girl, so hope she is lucky - when in June is Emma expecting her baby - do you know? Peter & I are still undecided over a girls name and just cannot agree over any! The photos enclosed are 1) a group taken at the Managers staff tea party just before Xmas. Caroline is sitting on the Manager's wife's knee. We left Adrienne at home as the afternoon was rather showery. The three bachelors here disgraced themselves by arriving after the photo had been taken!
2) Caroline in her fancy dress - looking rather dishevelled and not quite sure what was going on. I've put in a few snaps (these are the throw-outs!) as well - our last batch weren't very successful but we are having copies taken which we will be sending. (of the better ones.)
Must close now so that Peter can send this letter this afternoon - I shall probably find that he has written to you this morning 1 - but at least I'm sending the photos!
We hear that you are having a freeze-up - hope it isnt too bad & that you are all well.
Love from us all & big kisses from
Caroline & Adrienne, Margo & Peter.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Sat 6th December 1958
Written on Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Jesselton airmail letter
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you for your letter - have been here a week now and with the baggage safely arrived and being unpacked the house is taking on a familiar look. Not many breakages, a cup, a bowl and a pyrex dish - I suppose that something must be expected. We were intending to see S. Pacific but did not manage to do so - glad you enjoyed it. As for the Chinese Chow, well those long menus are a bit tricky and we seldom look at them, except for the headings. I imagine you would be content with 41/2 portions plus a soup plus a bowl of "MIXED FRIED RICE". We always have the rice as a base and it includes veg & chopped meat & prawns. You then have a choice of FISH LOBSTER CRAB FRIED PRAWNS - you can ask for a dish of anyone of these to include vegetables which should include bamboo shoots - bean sprouts - ginger. They will then suggest something which covers this.
CHICKEN PORK & OTHER MEAT (ask for Sweet and Sour Pork) - You can have three items from here so that your choice of vegetables will turn up somewhere.
The egg "omelette" is your fourth dish and you ask for a "FOO YONG". They will have several varieties - my favourite being Crab Foo Yong. Afterwards Lichees and Chinese Tea.
The house is even better than the pictures:overlooking hills and greenery and a part of the bay in one direction. Temperature is much less than in Ctta with a breeze blowing most of the time. The Governor's House is going up on the hill next to us and so far only the road is cut and they are carving the top off before starting to build. It is quite an effort to carry out a building project here as facilities are limited and the rains wash the drives away. Margo and the children have been on the sands with the manager's wife - Betty Haymes and Caroline enjoyed the swim. She also lit up when her bicycle was unpacked. I have not seen much of the place as yet. The office is keepin me busy and although procedure will quicken up in time there is enough routine to keep ones head down on the slackest days. Everyone appears to be very cheery including the local staff, who number 36 against Calcutta's hoards. Before I forget can you once again buy presents for Elaine - Fiona & Mary and let me know the cost? Christmas is nearly on us and it is difficult even to think about it at the moment. Without a car one is stuck on the hill and the few shops there are only supply necessities. Cheerio for now - must get on with the unpacking - all our love Margo Peter Caroline and Adrienne (this one is going to be a minx!)
(There is a drawing of the house plan in this letter which I am unable to reproduce here)
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you for your letter - have been here a week now and with the baggage safely arrived and being unpacked the house is taking on a familiar look. Not many breakages, a cup, a bowl and a pyrex dish - I suppose that something must be expected. We were intending to see S. Pacific but did not manage to do so - glad you enjoyed it. As for the Chinese Chow, well those long menus are a bit tricky and we seldom look at them, except for the headings. I imagine you would be content with 41/2 portions plus a soup plus a bowl of "MIXED FRIED RICE". We always have the rice as a base and it includes veg & chopped meat & prawns. You then have a choice of FISH LOBSTER CRAB FRIED PRAWNS - you can ask for a dish of anyone of these to include vegetables which should include bamboo shoots - bean sprouts - ginger. They will then suggest something which covers this.
CHICKEN PORK & OTHER MEAT (ask for Sweet and Sour Pork) - You can have three items from here so that your choice of vegetables will turn up somewhere.
The egg "omelette" is your fourth dish and you ask for a "FOO YONG". They will have several varieties - my favourite being Crab Foo Yong. Afterwards Lichees and Chinese Tea.
The house is even better than the pictures:overlooking hills and greenery and a part of the bay in one direction. Temperature is much less than in Ctta with a breeze blowing most of the time. The Governor's House is going up on the hill next to us and so far only the road is cut and they are carving the top off before starting to build. It is quite an effort to carry out a building project here as facilities are limited and the rains wash the drives away. Margo and the children have been on the sands with the manager's wife - Betty Haymes and Caroline enjoyed the swim. She also lit up when her bicycle was unpacked. I have not seen much of the place as yet. The office is keepin me busy and although procedure will quicken up in time there is enough routine to keep ones head down on the slackest days. Everyone appears to be very cheery including the local staff, who number 36 against Calcutta's hoards. Before I forget can you once again buy presents for Elaine - Fiona & Mary and let me know the cost? Christmas is nearly on us and it is difficult even to think about it at the moment. Without a car one is stuck on the hill and the few shops there are only supply necessities. Cheerio for now - must get on with the unpacking - all our love Margo Peter Caroline and Adrienne (this one is going to be a minx!)
(There is a drawing of the house plan in this letter which I am unable to reproduce here)
29.11.58
The Hongkong and Shanghai Bank
Jesselton. B. North Borneo
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Arrived safe and sound and in one piece yesterday afternoon and have a completed a days work to-day. My only letter from prior to Colombo seems a long way away. We had lunch there with some bank people leaving Adrienne on board but taking Caroline with us. It was a chance to stretch our legs and have a chat. Caroline played with a young girl there and thoroughly enjoyed herself. Three days access to Penang and the bulk of the packing? was completed then because it was pouring with rain and we were only there for a couple of hours. I went ashore by myself and said hello to all the clerks in the office. Also saw my old pal Doc Ballantyne for a short while. Singapore came up the next day and we were glad to leave the ship, although it had been very good to us. We were met and our baggage was taken care of by Philip Young and his wife, with whom we stayed for 3 days. They looked after us very well indeed and got us up at 5 am to catch the plane on Friday (yesterday). This proved to be a long trip calling at Kutching Sibu Laburn then Jesselton and we touched down finally at 3 pm. Must say the children took it very well although it was a little cramped, hot and at times bumpy - Margo lost half a cup of coffee at one point.
The house is a bungalow and to us is palatial, lots of polished flooring - view over the water to the mountain in the the background. The garden is not flat but terraced into the woody undergrowth and though not closely inspected yet appears to be maintained in apple pie order. Have had a full day's work it being the last day of the month so will finish this letter hurriedly written in case the next few days are too full to get it off. Will endeavour a description of Jesselton later when I have seen it myself.
Cheerio from us all and much love,
Peter
Jesselton. B. North Borneo
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Arrived safe and sound and in one piece yesterday afternoon and have a completed a days work to-day. My only letter from prior to Colombo seems a long way away. We had lunch there with some bank people leaving Adrienne on board but taking Caroline with us. It was a chance to stretch our legs and have a chat. Caroline played with a young girl there and thoroughly enjoyed herself. Three days access to Penang and the bulk of the packing? was completed then because it was pouring with rain and we were only there for a couple of hours. I went ashore by myself and said hello to all the clerks in the office. Also saw my old pal Doc Ballantyne for a short while. Singapore came up the next day and we were glad to leave the ship, although it had been very good to us. We were met and our baggage was taken care of by Philip Young and his wife, with whom we stayed for 3 days. They looked after us very well indeed and got us up at 5 am to catch the plane on Friday (yesterday). This proved to be a long trip calling at Kutching Sibu Laburn then Jesselton and we touched down finally at 3 pm. Must say the children took it very well although it was a little cramped, hot and at times bumpy - Margo lost half a cup of coffee at one point.
The house is a bungalow and to us is palatial, lots of polished flooring - view over the water to the mountain in the the background. The garden is not flat but terraced into the woody undergrowth and though not closely inspected yet appears to be maintained in apple pie order. Have had a full day's work it being the last day of the month so will finish this letter hurriedly written in case the next few days are too full to get it off. Will endeavour a description of Jesselton later when I have seen it myself.
Cheerio from us all and much love,
Peter
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Saturday 8th 1958
Written on m.s. "ORANJE' headed airmail paper. (Month is possibly Oct or Nov).
to be from Genoa,
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Thank you for seeing us off on Thursday, we had four seats and therefore plenty of room on the train and the children behaved beautifully. No customs formalities in S'hampton and but for a 15min queue for stamping passports we went straight on to the ship. Your flowers were in our cabin and look very attractive - thank you once again. Henry and Hilda sent a wire wishing us Bon Voyage so we felt that we were being thought of right up to the last moment. The ship sailed promptly at 3pm and is big and fast. We got well into the Bay in the night - not rough but with a big swell and lots of rolling. The children did not mind, but after we had given them breakfast we missed ours. The whole morning and feeding them at lunch was a strain for Margo. Luckily I remained fit enough to help and had a light lunch myself. We ran into fog in the late afternoon which stopped us for a while but nevertheless we had finished with the Bay by evening thanks to a fast ship, and we were both well enough to attend the Captain's cocktail party in the evening and have a light dinner. Bed early and all slept well to wake to the sun and warmth somewhere off southern Spain. The childrens' nursery is excellent and both can be left there all day, which does give a break. We collect them for sleep during the day and also at meal times but I think that all in all the voyage will give Margo a rest. The ship is just what was needed for that. We have met a Mr & Mrs Calvert, the father and mother of one of the foreign staff in Singapore who had mentioned we would be on board. They are a cheery couple.
All our love for the moment and best wishes, and thank you for all you have done for us - it will mean a lot for this tour.
Love from
Margo Peter Caroline and Adrienne xxxx.
to be from Genoa,
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
Thank you for seeing us off on Thursday, we had four seats and therefore plenty of room on the train and the children behaved beautifully. No customs formalities in S'hampton and but for a 15min queue for stamping passports we went straight on to the ship. Your flowers were in our cabin and look very attractive - thank you once again. Henry and Hilda sent a wire wishing us Bon Voyage so we felt that we were being thought of right up to the last moment. The ship sailed promptly at 3pm and is big and fast. We got well into the Bay in the night - not rough but with a big swell and lots of rolling. The children did not mind, but after we had given them breakfast we missed ours. The whole morning and feeding them at lunch was a strain for Margo. Luckily I remained fit enough to help and had a light lunch myself. We ran into fog in the late afternoon which stopped us for a while but nevertheless we had finished with the Bay by evening thanks to a fast ship, and we were both well enough to attend the Captain's cocktail party in the evening and have a light dinner. Bed early and all slept well to wake to the sun and warmth somewhere off southern Spain. The childrens' nursery is excellent and both can be left there all day, which does give a break. We collect them for sleep during the day and also at meal times but I think that all in all the voyage will give Margo a rest. The ship is just what was needed for that. We have met a Mr & Mrs Calvert, the father and mother of one of the foreign staff in Singapore who had mentioned we would be on board. They are a cheery couple.
All our love for the moment and best wishes, and thank you for all you have done for us - it will mean a lot for this tour.
Love from
Margo Peter Caroline and Adrienne xxxx.
29th April, 58
Typewritten on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter. (All these letters are addressed to Mr & Mrs L.V.C Briggs at 65, Tamworth Park, Mitcham Surrey.UK)
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your long letter, am glad the tea arrived, I sent one to Margaret also and one to Sydenham so hope they arrive. Was amused at your description of Fiona and Mary with Caroline and hope that there are some children at Herne Bay for her to play with . My weight is still up and am doing a steady amount of swimming. A third of a mile last night and shall work up to a mile by the weekend. The club is just round the corner from the office so I go there after work, have tea then splash in for half an hour or so. It passes the time and keeps me occupied; not to mention the appetite that I have for dinner. Its these B12 complex tablets that are doing it and they seem very effective. Thank you for sending the tie I hope it gets through without bother, I shall feel rather old on the ninth... getting on for forty! Yes, I thought it would be a good idea to spend the first night resting. I remember last time that I was absolutely exhausted and this way will have a chance to look more presentable. Still we shall see, it will depend on the plane behaving itself and arriving on time. The inspectors arrive today.. their plane has had a twenty-four hour delay and so the smart dresses worn by the typists and clean trousers on the clerks, instead of dhoties, will be a bit bedraggled by today. Margo mentioned that it is a lot warmer, it must have been awful in that cold and am very pleased that I missed it. Bill Mosely wrote to the same effect saying his first seven weeks were miserable. Is there anything special I can get you here for your birthday? You will have seen one or two things that Margo purchased here and may have something in mind. Let me know.
30th April.
The inspectors did not arrive - they were held up again at Bangkok and should be in this morning. B.O.A.C. are really excelling themselves.
Cheerio for now and Love
Peter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your long letter, am glad the tea arrived, I sent one to Margaret also and one to Sydenham so hope they arrive. Was amused at your description of Fiona and Mary with Caroline and hope that there are some children at Herne Bay for her to play with . My weight is still up and am doing a steady amount of swimming. A third of a mile last night and shall work up to a mile by the weekend. The club is just round the corner from the office so I go there after work, have tea then splash in for half an hour or so. It passes the time and keeps me occupied; not to mention the appetite that I have for dinner. Its these B12 complex tablets that are doing it and they seem very effective. Thank you for sending the tie I hope it gets through without bother, I shall feel rather old on the ninth... getting on for forty! Yes, I thought it would be a good idea to spend the first night resting. I remember last time that I was absolutely exhausted and this way will have a chance to look more presentable. Still we shall see, it will depend on the plane behaving itself and arriving on time. The inspectors arrive today.. their plane has had a twenty-four hour delay and so the smart dresses worn by the typists and clean trousers on the clerks, instead of dhoties, will be a bit bedraggled by today. Margo mentioned that it is a lot warmer, it must have been awful in that cold and am very pleased that I missed it. Bill Mosely wrote to the same effect saying his first seven weeks were miserable. Is there anything special I can get you here for your birthday? You will have seen one or two things that Margo purchased here and may have something in mind. Let me know.
30th April.
The inspectors did not arrive - they were held up again at Bangkok and should be in this morning. B.O.A.C. are really excelling themselves.
Cheerio for now and Love
Peter.
29th March 1958
Written on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your lovely letter about Caroline. She is at a wonderful age just now and full of vitality and enjoyment of everything. She has obviously shown you all her paces from animals to dancing. She will sit with Dad if has a magazine or a picture book with Gees Gees but not for long, as is usual with children, their attention is everywhere. The Gurkha KUKRI is meant to be decorative (on a wall) and is only a third of the size worn by our Gurkhas at Middleton Mansions. they act as watchman or DURWANS. It was used a great deal in Burma in the last war and in Malaya when I was there. It is a hunting knife as well as a killing one and the two blades in the pouch or purse at the side should be one sharp and one blunt. These are for diverse purposes such as eating & preparing food and sharpening the bigger knife, but are of course a bit small in the one you have. A ceremonial kukri will take the head of a bullock at one swipe and the ordinary one will do the same to a man. It is the curve and weight of the blade that does it. Yours should be kept polished and hung on the wall. So that concludes the excerpt from the Encylopedia Britainnica! The weather at 105F in the shade (probably 120/30 on the roof of a car) has given me a feverish cold which I have just about thrown off/ Again it is dirt more than anything else and I am now looking forward to those sea breezes at Herne Bay more than ever before. Am closing this off on 31st. The last last day of the month but one to cope with. It is amazing how slack we are now compared to six months ago. virtually making work to do.
Cheerio for now and love,
Peter.
P.S. I did not get a wire off to Tom although it was ready, because of the fever I had on Friday - somehow I remembered Barbaras. P.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your lovely letter about Caroline. She is at a wonderful age just now and full of vitality and enjoyment of everything. She has obviously shown you all her paces from animals to dancing. She will sit with Dad if has a magazine or a picture book with Gees Gees but not for long, as is usual with children, their attention is everywhere. The Gurkha KUKRI is meant to be decorative (on a wall) and is only a third of the size worn by our Gurkhas at Middleton Mansions. they act as watchman or DURWANS. It was used a great deal in Burma in the last war and in Malaya when I was there. It is a hunting knife as well as a killing one and the two blades in the pouch or purse at the side should be one sharp and one blunt. These are for diverse purposes such as eating & preparing food and sharpening the bigger knife, but are of course a bit small in the one you have. A ceremonial kukri will take the head of a bullock at one swipe and the ordinary one will do the same to a man. It is the curve and weight of the blade that does it. Yours should be kept polished and hung on the wall. So that concludes the excerpt from the Encylopedia Britainnica! The weather at 105F in the shade (probably 120/30 on the roof of a car) has given me a feverish cold which I have just about thrown off/ Again it is dirt more than anything else and I am now looking forward to those sea breezes at Herne Bay more than ever before. Am closing this off on 31st. The last last day of the month but one to cope with. It is amazing how slack we are now compared to six months ago. virtually making work to do.
Cheerio for now and love,
Peter.
P.S. I did not get a wire off to Tom although it was ready, because of the fever I had on Friday - somehow I remembered Barbaras. P.
12th March, 1958
Typewritten on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter which I was specially pleased to receive as Margo's had been delayed in the post. The airways messup seems typical these days. Despite their boastful advertisements they really do not care very much as they have a full traffic. It was lucky that Margo managed to get an alternative flight so quickly. Thank you for getting the flowers for me. Margo mentioned that she was tired and was suffering from lack of any system in the new conditions, but knowing her ability to settle down it will not be long before everything is sorted out. Coming from the east on leave one should really go into seclusion for a week or two in a comfortable hotel in the country and not meet anyone until fully rested from the trip, otherwise there is a natural temptation to do too much. Am glad Caroline was happy. This will not be a period of quick development for her and I expect her speech will flow more strongly now that there will be so many new things to interest her. Adrienne will be sitting up and looking less babylike even by the time I return. I have been kept occupied since Margo's departure with friends making sure that I do not feel lonely and I shall be glad when next week comes around and I can have a bit of time to myself. Am starting bridge again and fixing up a regular four and hope to interest Margo again ready for the next tour. It is a very suitable way of entertaining and one does not have to be all that expert. Will always be pleased to have your impressions of the children, one knows they are pretty good but it is nice to hear other people say so!
Much love, Peter.
P.S. What does Alan thing of his nieces and god-daughter?
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter which I was specially pleased to receive as Margo's had been delayed in the post. The airways messup seems typical these days. Despite their boastful advertisements they really do not care very much as they have a full traffic. It was lucky that Margo managed to get an alternative flight so quickly. Thank you for getting the flowers for me. Margo mentioned that she was tired and was suffering from lack of any system in the new conditions, but knowing her ability to settle down it will not be long before everything is sorted out. Coming from the east on leave one should really go into seclusion for a week or two in a comfortable hotel in the country and not meet anyone until fully rested from the trip, otherwise there is a natural temptation to do too much. Am glad Caroline was happy. This will not be a period of quick development for her and I expect her speech will flow more strongly now that there will be so many new things to interest her. Adrienne will be sitting up and looking less babylike even by the time I return. I have been kept occupied since Margo's departure with friends making sure that I do not feel lonely and I shall be glad when next week comes around and I can have a bit of time to myself. Am starting bridge again and fixing up a regular four and hope to interest Margo again ready for the next tour. It is a very suitable way of entertaining and one does not have to be all that expert. Will always be pleased to have your impressions of the children, one knows they are pretty good but it is nice to hear other people say so!
Much love, Peter.
P.S. What does Alan thing of his nieces and god-daughter?
13th Feb. 58
Typewritten on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
I have not received your usual letter so though this could sent in case something has been lost in the post, though I hope you have the four enlargements sent separately.
The Christening was successful, the weather cool enough to be comfortable. The service was very good and Adrienne behaved herself too. The church had laid out the seating arrangements on three sides of the font and they were packed with our party. I hope that the photos that were taken turn out to be good though I wish I had done them myself to make sure. The party afterwards was great fun, the flat being packed without much room to move. I had enough whisky from Christmas gifts from customers to cover everything and Margo purchased a wonderful cake which was the centre of attraction. Caroline came to the service and clung to my hand quietly all the time. At the party she had more cakes and biscuits than anyone and thought the whole thing to be very fine. Adrienne received some grand presents, dresses, spoons, napkin rings, a gold brooch, premium bonds, bracelets, two charms in gold and other odds and ends. Her godfather made two short speeches and left at 11pm, which seeing that the party started before five was not bad going. There must have been 46 people there in the end.
Margo is packing and the next two weeks will be taken up with various parties and the final packing then off. I myself have less than 4 months to do and expect the time to fly by.
Cheerio for now, must do some work, Love from us all,
Margo, peter, Caroline and Adrienne
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
I have not received your usual letter so though this could sent in case something has been lost in the post, though I hope you have the four enlargements sent separately.
The Christening was successful, the weather cool enough to be comfortable. The service was very good and Adrienne behaved herself too. The church had laid out the seating arrangements on three sides of the font and they were packed with our party. I hope that the photos that were taken turn out to be good though I wish I had done them myself to make sure. The party afterwards was great fun, the flat being packed without much room to move. I had enough whisky from Christmas gifts from customers to cover everything and Margo purchased a wonderful cake which was the centre of attraction. Caroline came to the service and clung to my hand quietly all the time. At the party she had more cakes and biscuits than anyone and thought the whole thing to be very fine. Adrienne received some grand presents, dresses, spoons, napkin rings, a gold brooch, premium bonds, bracelets, two charms in gold and other odds and ends. Her godfather made two short speeches and left at 11pm, which seeing that the party started before five was not bad going. There must have been 46 people there in the end.
Margo is packing and the next two weeks will be taken up with various parties and the final packing then off. I myself have less than 4 months to do and expect the time to fly by.
Cheerio for now, must do some work, Love from us all,
Margo, peter, Caroline and Adrienne
7th Feb 1958
Typewritten on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter. (This is dated incorrectly - I am guessing it is actually 7th Mar, as it is out of sync.)
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
As you can guess this week has been pretty busy and I have delayed writing to you till now. I have not yet had a letter from Margo but imagine that all must have gone well and you will by now have met my daughters. I have been entertained by friends since Margo left and have not had much time to feel lonely although once or twice the flat seemed very empty. Must get down to the final packing this weekend. I don't like packing and have the feeling that I will put it off although it will worry me until it is done. A launch picnic on Wednesday went very well in good weather with some pleasant people. This is the holiday called Holi when everyone throws coloured water, paint, on everyone else and they get in a fine old mess, their clothes being ruined for good. Still they seem to have fun looking scruffier than they do usually. A funny lot. Have some pictures of the picnic which I hope will come out so that I can show you some new faces. Not many pages left in the Calcutta album now. I wonder what the title of the next Album will be. Lots of little Japanese gardens would be rather attractive. Can you please send me an application form for a driving licence. I want to renew my UK one this time to make sure that I remain on the books. Can you tell me if my two sheath knives are still around. The son of a friend of mine has just joined the scouts and I thought he might like them. I hope to visit him at school when I get home.
Cheerio for now and lots of love, let me have a long letter giving all your views and impressions of the children, we started to call them the tortoise and the bee .... you will know which is which.
Dear Mum Dad and Alan,
As you can guess this week has been pretty busy and I have delayed writing to you till now. I have not yet had a letter from Margo but imagine that all must have gone well and you will by now have met my daughters. I have been entertained by friends since Margo left and have not had much time to feel lonely although once or twice the flat seemed very empty. Must get down to the final packing this weekend. I don't like packing and have the feeling that I will put it off although it will worry me until it is done. A launch picnic on Wednesday went very well in good weather with some pleasant people. This is the holiday called Holi when everyone throws coloured water, paint, on everyone else and they get in a fine old mess, their clothes being ruined for good. Still they seem to have fun looking scruffier than they do usually. A funny lot. Have some pictures of the picnic which I hope will come out so that I can show you some new faces. Not many pages left in the Calcutta album now. I wonder what the title of the next Album will be. Lots of little Japanese gardens would be rather attractive. Can you please send me an application form for a driving licence. I want to renew my UK one this time to make sure that I remain on the books. Can you tell me if my two sheath knives are still around. The son of a friend of mine has just joined the scouts and I thought he might like them. I hope to visit him at school when I get home.
Cheerio for now and lots of love, let me have a long letter giving all your views and impressions of the children, we started to call them the tortoise and the bee .... you will know which is which.
Monday, July 13, 2009
18.1.58
Type and handwritten on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter, you seemed worried about our health, but all the colds are over for the moment although Adrienne has a snuffle still. As her weight continues to increase this does not appear to matter very much, she is near the 12 lb mark now, can see and produces a rare smile. Margo is booked to arrive in London Airport at 2.30 pm Sunday 2.3.58 and the time seems very short now. Once the inoculations are over and the Christening and packing they will be off. My relief is planning on arriving a few weeks early so that although I will not know the exact date for some time as he is to come on a cargo boat which is not definite on its dates of call, I shall most likely be home in May instead of June. This is all to the good as we will then have less of the winter.
We have had a long letter from Dorothy and one from Margaret, both families are doing well and it will be great to see them again.
This afternoon we are off to the Races again for one of the big events of the season. last Sunday we went to the horse show and the most interesting item was most exciting. Mainly police entered for it and the object was a fast ride on huge chargers, two sword thrusts at sandbags, two jumps with three balloons to be shot with revolver then taking a lance they had to spear two small hanging rings and pick a small piece of wood from the ground. This was all done at the gallop with flying turbans a terrific dash. very small children took part in other events and the general standard to my inexperienced eye seemed to be high. We did not take Caroline as it promised to be hot but I hope to see her doing the same thing in a few years as she is getting in enough practice at the moment using me as a horse. When I get home and before I have managed to gulp a cup of tea it is, "Gee Gee, Daddy!" and a small figure tapping the carpet with imperious air. Very strenuous, especially when Sammy joins in, luckily Adrienne is not interested yet.
Hope your winter is not too severe. Japan has had a very heavy fall of snow but our winter has been quite wild once again and looks as if it may be nearly over. There are two more photos for you soon which you will find amusing - it is the first group of the family I have taken.
Cheerio for now and love,
Margo & Peter
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter, you seemed worried about our health, but all the colds are over for the moment although Adrienne has a snuffle still. As her weight continues to increase this does not appear to matter very much, she is near the 12 lb mark now, can see and produces a rare smile. Margo is booked to arrive in London Airport at 2.30 pm Sunday 2.3.58 and the time seems very short now. Once the inoculations are over and the Christening and packing they will be off. My relief is planning on arriving a few weeks early so that although I will not know the exact date for some time as he is to come on a cargo boat which is not definite on its dates of call, I shall most likely be home in May instead of June. This is all to the good as we will then have less of the winter.
We have had a long letter from Dorothy and one from Margaret, both families are doing well and it will be great to see them again.
This afternoon we are off to the Races again for one of the big events of the season. last Sunday we went to the horse show and the most interesting item was most exciting. Mainly police entered for it and the object was a fast ride on huge chargers, two sword thrusts at sandbags, two jumps with three balloons to be shot with revolver then taking a lance they had to spear two small hanging rings and pick a small piece of wood from the ground. This was all done at the gallop with flying turbans a terrific dash. very small children took part in other events and the general standard to my inexperienced eye seemed to be high. We did not take Caroline as it promised to be hot but I hope to see her doing the same thing in a few years as she is getting in enough practice at the moment using me as a horse. When I get home and before I have managed to gulp a cup of tea it is, "Gee Gee, Daddy!" and a small figure tapping the carpet with imperious air. Very strenuous, especially when Sammy joins in, luckily Adrienne is not interested yet.
Hope your winter is not too severe. Japan has had a very heavy fall of snow but our winter has been quite wild once again and looks as if it may be nearly over. There are two more photos for you soon which you will find amusing - it is the first group of the family I have taken.
Cheerio for now and love,
Margo & Peter
9th Jan 1958
Typewritten on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for you letter, I am a little late in replying but we have been enjoying the New Year both in the office and outside. The tie arrived safely and is just the thing. It looks very smart with my new suit. Christmas went off in fine fashion with the usual customers calling, although there was very little whisky this year. Caroline had lots of presents including toys which work off a battery, bricks, books, dolls etc. etc. and once she realised all the packages were hers spent a grand time opening them all. But in the end finished up playing with her favorite toy which is the current tin of talcum powder. She went to a childrens dinner party on Christmas Eve and astonished everyone by polishing off a large plate of turkey etc meant for older children. She feeds herself and drinks from a cup without any trouble now, in fact, the only trouble comes when one tries to feed her which we gave up doing some time ago, and she is getting fatter all the time. New Years Eve was spent at Tollygunge as guests of John Sawtells boss. A lovely evening and we had a great deal of fun. There have been a number of parties since and there are still a few to attend. We gave a small dinner last night which went off well and are now preparing for the Christening on the 2nd. February for near 50 people. After that Margo will be packing for her trip home in now less than two months time. You will be glad to see the children. Adrienne is in very fine form now. The cold has gone and she is sleeping better. She can see now which is an improvement and is still feeding well and putting on weight. Her slightly dark colouring is still apparent and with any luck it will remain. It is still hard to say whether either of them take after one of us and my original opinion remains that they are both a good mixture. Caroline for instance definitely has Margos finger-nails and Adrienne I think will have hazel eyes once the blue goes.
Soul has arrived to take over from Milne-Day who is going on leave next month. By the way Bob Farrell brought the Elephant safely. MacLeod arriveds to take over from me at the end of this month when I shall be taking over Drafts again. Caroline is still not speaking properly yet and I am relying on you to teach her as you taught me. You will see them both grow up through most interesting stages during the time that they are home. I am choosing my car now and have decided on a two pedal Anglia. Same as the last car I had but because of the children only two doors. A light cream in colour and no clutch. This has been written in a rush as I have work to do but at the same time realised that a letter must be sent off or you would be wondering what had happened.
Cheerio & Love
Peter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for you letter, I am a little late in replying but we have been enjoying the New Year both in the office and outside. The tie arrived safely and is just the thing. It looks very smart with my new suit. Christmas went off in fine fashion with the usual customers calling, although there was very little whisky this year. Caroline had lots of presents including toys which work off a battery, bricks, books, dolls etc. etc. and once she realised all the packages were hers spent a grand time opening them all. But in the end finished up playing with her favorite toy which is the current tin of talcum powder. She went to a childrens dinner party on Christmas Eve and astonished everyone by polishing off a large plate of turkey etc meant for older children. She feeds herself and drinks from a cup without any trouble now, in fact, the only trouble comes when one tries to feed her which we gave up doing some time ago, and she is getting fatter all the time. New Years Eve was spent at Tollygunge as guests of John Sawtells boss. A lovely evening and we had a great deal of fun. There have been a number of parties since and there are still a few to attend. We gave a small dinner last night which went off well and are now preparing for the Christening on the 2nd. February for near 50 people. After that Margo will be packing for her trip home in now less than two months time. You will be glad to see the children. Adrienne is in very fine form now. The cold has gone and she is sleeping better. She can see now which is an improvement and is still feeding well and putting on weight. Her slightly dark colouring is still apparent and with any luck it will remain. It is still hard to say whether either of them take after one of us and my original opinion remains that they are both a good mixture. Caroline for instance definitely has Margos finger-nails and Adrienne I think will have hazel eyes once the blue goes.
Soul has arrived to take over from Milne-Day who is going on leave next month. By the way Bob Farrell brought the Elephant safely. MacLeod arriveds to take over from me at the end of this month when I shall be taking over Drafts again. Caroline is still not speaking properly yet and I am relying on you to teach her as you taught me. You will see them both grow up through most interesting stages during the time that they are home. I am choosing my car now and have decided on a two pedal Anglia. Same as the last car I had but because of the children only two doors. A light cream in colour and no clutch. This has been written in a rush as I have work to do but at the same time realised that a letter must be sent off or you would be wondering what had happened.
Cheerio & Love
Peter.
7.12.57
Written on HSBC Calcutta airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
The books have arrived safe and sound and what a wonderful selection they are! Caroline is crazy about dogs and will love the 'Lady and The Tramp' pictures & Margo and I both wanted to read the books sent. (Just one small note please do not use your surname when writing to us, it is Victorian). Margo received your long letter and there was something I wanted to answer in it but for the moment it has slipped my mind. Unfortunately some of our mail has gone astray - a letter from Margo's mother and one of mine & one of Margo's to her - just at the time Adrienne arrived - most annoying. Hope Henry's visit is sucessful I had not realized such a long time had passed since you last saw him. We are progressing towards Christmas - only one days holiday this year - but am looking forward to entertaining Caroline as she did not appreciate much last time. Her double teeth are still on the way and causing a little unsettlement, one has to be very patient especially as she still does not speak enough to tell what she wants, though when understood all is well. It is amazing how intelligent a child of that age can be, and how quick to copy sounds & actions. We still go to the Zoo once a week and I have some more pictures for you soon. This afternoon a 'Sale of Work' at the Cathedral will provide swings and roundabouts and I am in for a little strenuous exercise - Caroline can say 'Dee Daw' (See Saw) all day long and will have a grand time.
Thanks once again for your present and all our love
Margo peter Caroline Adrienne (over 8 1/2 lbs and still hungry)
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
The books have arrived safe and sound and what a wonderful selection they are! Caroline is crazy about dogs and will love the 'Lady and The Tramp' pictures & Margo and I both wanted to read the books sent. (Just one small note please do not use your surname when writing to us, it is Victorian). Margo received your long letter and there was something I wanted to answer in it but for the moment it has slipped my mind. Unfortunately some of our mail has gone astray - a letter from Margo's mother and one of mine & one of Margo's to her - just at the time Adrienne arrived - most annoying. Hope Henry's visit is sucessful I had not realized such a long time had passed since you last saw him. We are progressing towards Christmas - only one days holiday this year - but am looking forward to entertaining Caroline as she did not appreciate much last time. Her double teeth are still on the way and causing a little unsettlement, one has to be very patient especially as she still does not speak enough to tell what she wants, though when understood all is well. It is amazing how intelligent a child of that age can be, and how quick to copy sounds & actions. We still go to the Zoo once a week and I have some more pictures for you soon. This afternoon a 'Sale of Work' at the Cathedral will provide swings and roundabouts and I am in for a little strenuous exercise - Caroline can say 'Dee Daw' (See Saw) all day long and will have a grand time.
Thanks once again for your present and all our love
Margo peter Caroline Adrienne (over 8 1/2 lbs and still hungry)
25th November 1957
Written on HSBC airmail letter from Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thanks for your letter. Adrienne is fine and only 30 minutes bother at night not disturbing my sleep at all! Caroline is most intrigued with her and as we make sure that she has all the attention possible will not notice much difference in her way of life. She watches the feeding and bathing and is allowed to kiss the baby good-night. Sam too was equally curious at first but has now accepted the increase in family. The pronounciation of Adrienne will evolve in due course - personally I like 'Adrian' but if she goes on feeding at the present rate she will just be calling 'Fatty'. You need have no apprehension that I am worried about a second girl (I can tot up a balance sheet with anyone.) In anycase if the Premium Bonds come up I fully intend to have half a dozen it seems a more reasonable number. Talking of P Bonds perhaps a Savings Account is the best. I have the full allocation of P Bonds and those Alan holds for Caroline will have to go in Margo's name.
It is Bob Farrel who is coming out to arrive on 19th Dec. He is flying so will not wish to carry very much and Margo has not mentioned anything particular. I am wearing my new suit to-day - can't do it again as it shows everyone else up! Am very pleased with it and hope to afford another with a suit length given me last Christmas. margo is very fit. Tollygunge on Saturday and Zoo yesterday. Its the Guinness I think! Probably helps Adrienne sleep too, I like it very much but very sacrificingly do not have any.
Cheers for now and love from us all,
Peter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thanks for your letter. Adrienne is fine and only 30 minutes bother at night not disturbing my sleep at all! Caroline is most intrigued with her and as we make sure that she has all the attention possible will not notice much difference in her way of life. She watches the feeding and bathing and is allowed to kiss the baby good-night. Sam too was equally curious at first but has now accepted the increase in family. The pronounciation of Adrienne will evolve in due course - personally I like 'Adrian' but if she goes on feeding at the present rate she will just be calling 'Fatty'. You need have no apprehension that I am worried about a second girl (I can tot up a balance sheet with anyone.) In anycase if the Premium Bonds come up I fully intend to have half a dozen it seems a more reasonable number. Talking of P Bonds perhaps a Savings Account is the best. I have the full allocation of P Bonds and those Alan holds for Caroline will have to go in Margo's name.
It is Bob Farrel who is coming out to arrive on 19th Dec. He is flying so will not wish to carry very much and Margo has not mentioned anything particular. I am wearing my new suit to-day - can't do it again as it shows everyone else up! Am very pleased with it and hope to afford another with a suit length given me last Christmas. margo is very fit. Tollygunge on Saturday and Zoo yesterday. Its the Guinness I think! Probably helps Adrienne sleep too, I like it very much but very sacrificingly do not have any.
Cheers for now and love from us all,
Peter.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Undated but after 13th November 1957
Elgin Nursing Home
Calcutta
(One of the few letters written by my Mum)
My dear Mum & Dad,
Many thanks for your telegram which arrived on Friday morning. We were beginning to think that this baby was never coming! However, I went for a long walk on Tuesday afternoon & about midnight started slight pains. I was determined not to go to the nursing home during the night! When Wednesday came I knew that the baby was on the way but was obviously taking its' time. I eventually rang the doctor at 4pm & he told me to go straight into the nursing home. My servants were having their 'siesta' but I managed to find the cook who went for a taxi. When the Ayah & bearer returned to the flat they were very peeved to find that I had gone without their knowledge! At 7pm I went into the labour room & had injections which made me wonderfully drowsy & eventually I had to have an anaesthetic. When I came too it was 12.30 & the nurse said 'You know that it's over - you have a girl, 6llbs 11 1/2ozs born at 10.30. Adrienne was a forceps delivery as both hands were crossed over her head. It took about 12 hours for the effects of the gas to wear off - my eyes refused to focus & I kept seeing double! I was also disappointed that I couldn't see the baby straight away but apparently forceps babies have to rest for 24 hrs. When she eventually came in the marks had nearly faded & although her poor little nose was flattened it has improved with the days. It's difficult to say who she favours - she isn't like Caroline - her hair (very little) is dark. After handling Caroline, Adrienne looks like a baby doll - I'm sure that's what Caroline thinks she is!
Excuse the scrawl but I am reclining in bed as best I can - unfortunately I had to have stitches again but with the cooler weather they aren't nearly as sore as last time. The Elgin is full as Oct, Nov, Dec is the busiest time for producing babies. Col Fisher (my doctor) delivered 40 babies last month apart from his other work!
I am lucky to have one of the pleasanter rooms here - it's very bright & cheery & I'm surrounded by lovely flowers which friends have sent. The chrysanthemums are beautiful this year - lovely shaggy golden ones & some of a delicate shade of pink.
Peter is looking very well these days - his holiday really did him good & he relaxed a great deal during the Bank strike. Now that the cooler weather is arriving he should improve even more. It's a pity that he has to go through the hot weather but at least we know that he will be home at the beginning of June. I am looking forward so much to coming home & seeing you all again - it doesn't seem possible that it's only 3 months away. I expect you're anxious to see the babies. Caroline still doesn't say much other than 'Daddy' & 'Gee-gee' - even less than she did at a year. However, she understands a lot & will probably surprise us one day. She is a real 'Daddys' girl - yesterday Peter was up at 6.30am to take Caroline to the Zoo. I believe they had a lovely time - Caroline is crazy about animals & very fearless. Peter is hoping that he has some good snaps. Have you received the cine -film? - My friend's husband had a brief trip home on business & very kindly offered to take the film for us. It isn't as good as the previous ones - the bright sun & sand were rather against us.
This is the longest part of the day for me as we are awakened at 5am, washed - Adrienne is fed & then I have until 8am to wait for breakfast - & I have an enormous appetite! Peter comes at 8.30am-9 & again in the evening. Caroline came on Saturday at 4.30 & was very shy at first & then decide to explore the Elgin!
I expect Margaret's girls will seem very grown up when we get home. Mary was just crawling when we last saw her. It's amazing how quickly children grown - I can hardly remember Caroline as a baby.
Must say good-bye now as I want Peter to post this letter today.
Fondest love from us all & an especially big kiss from Adrienne & Caroline
Margo & Peter
Calcutta
(One of the few letters written by my Mum)
My dear Mum & Dad,
Many thanks for your telegram which arrived on Friday morning. We were beginning to think that this baby was never coming! However, I went for a long walk on Tuesday afternoon & about midnight started slight pains. I was determined not to go to the nursing home during the night! When Wednesday came I knew that the baby was on the way but was obviously taking its' time. I eventually rang the doctor at 4pm & he told me to go straight into the nursing home. My servants were having their 'siesta' but I managed to find the cook who went for a taxi. When the Ayah & bearer returned to the flat they were very peeved to find that I had gone without their knowledge! At 7pm I went into the labour room & had injections which made me wonderfully drowsy & eventually I had to have an anaesthetic. When I came too it was 12.30 & the nurse said 'You know that it's over - you have a girl, 6llbs 11 1/2ozs born at 10.30. Adrienne was a forceps delivery as both hands were crossed over her head. It took about 12 hours for the effects of the gas to wear off - my eyes refused to focus & I kept seeing double! I was also disappointed that I couldn't see the baby straight away but apparently forceps babies have to rest for 24 hrs. When she eventually came in the marks had nearly faded & although her poor little nose was flattened it has improved with the days. It's difficult to say who she favours - she isn't like Caroline - her hair (very little) is dark. After handling Caroline, Adrienne looks like a baby doll - I'm sure that's what Caroline thinks she is!
Excuse the scrawl but I am reclining in bed as best I can - unfortunately I had to have stitches again but with the cooler weather they aren't nearly as sore as last time. The Elgin is full as Oct, Nov, Dec is the busiest time for producing babies. Col Fisher (my doctor) delivered 40 babies last month apart from his other work!
I am lucky to have one of the pleasanter rooms here - it's very bright & cheery & I'm surrounded by lovely flowers which friends have sent. The chrysanthemums are beautiful this year - lovely shaggy golden ones & some of a delicate shade of pink.
Peter is looking very well these days - his holiday really did him good & he relaxed a great deal during the Bank strike. Now that the cooler weather is arriving he should improve even more. It's a pity that he has to go through the hot weather but at least we know that he will be home at the beginning of June. I am looking forward so much to coming home & seeing you all again - it doesn't seem possible that it's only 3 months away. I expect you're anxious to see the babies. Caroline still doesn't say much other than 'Daddy' & 'Gee-gee' - even less than she did at a year. However, she understands a lot & will probably surprise us one day. She is a real 'Daddys' girl - yesterday Peter was up at 6.30am to take Caroline to the Zoo. I believe they had a lovely time - Caroline is crazy about animals & very fearless. Peter is hoping that he has some good snaps. Have you received the cine -film? - My friend's husband had a brief trip home on business & very kindly offered to take the film for us. It isn't as good as the previous ones - the bright sun & sand were rather against us.
This is the longest part of the day for me as we are awakened at 5am, washed - Adrienne is fed & then I have until 8am to wait for breakfast - & I have an enormous appetite! Peter comes at 8.30am-9 & again in the evening. Caroline came on Saturday at 4.30 & was very shy at first & then decide to explore the Elgin!
I expect Margaret's girls will seem very grown up when we get home. Mary was just crawling when we last saw her. It's amazing how quickly children grown - I can hardly remember Caroline as a baby.
Must say good-bye now as I want Peter to post this letter today.
Fondest love from us all & an especially big kiss from Adrienne & Caroline
Margo & Peter
11, November, 1957
Typed on HSBC, Calcutta headed airmail letter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter. I have missed replying due to good weather instead of bad. Its getting chilly now and we have found energy to go out and about. Went to Maxim's with a customer on Friday and enjoyed an excellent meal and cabaret, normally outside our pockets in these times. Margo was in very good form and though we up till past twelve was not overtired but had a very solid night's sleep. Saturday, the due date, produced nothing out of the ordinary and we are still waiting the event. Caroline has had two double teeth over the last two weeks. Her teeth are big ones and cause her a lot of bother, however with the cool weather her rosy cheeks have returned and she is full of beans. Played a spot of golf yesterday and hope to keep it up for the winter, it is really glorious at Tollygunge just now. Phillips are having a new issue here and I am hoping to pick up a few for immediate resale. It will pay for the new suit I am having made from material offered me by a customer at cost price. Light weight dark grey, it should do well for the summer at home. Ian Purslow has arrived, the first of a series of changes that we are going to have up until the time I come home. My relief has been announced to arrive here on 27th May which means I should be home at the middle of June, latest, if all goes well. I am handing over my department on Febrary and will then take on a light job whcih I will combine with general supervision of the old one. This is a pleasing way to do things as normally a "take over" is such a last minute rush. Saw the beginning of the eclipse of the moon last week. A very clear sky for it. Caroline takes me out nightly for a "ss saw" on the swing in the garden and knows where to look for the moon. Margo has made her some pyjamas with feet in and the effect is that of a baby Panda, must get a photo one of these days.
Cheerio for now and love,
Margo, Peter and Caroline
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter. I have missed replying due to good weather instead of bad. Its getting chilly now and we have found energy to go out and about. Went to Maxim's with a customer on Friday and enjoyed an excellent meal and cabaret, normally outside our pockets in these times. Margo was in very good form and though we up till past twelve was not overtired but had a very solid night's sleep. Saturday, the due date, produced nothing out of the ordinary and we are still waiting the event. Caroline has had two double teeth over the last two weeks. Her teeth are big ones and cause her a lot of bother, however with the cool weather her rosy cheeks have returned and she is full of beans. Played a spot of golf yesterday and hope to keep it up for the winter, it is really glorious at Tollygunge just now. Phillips are having a new issue here and I am hoping to pick up a few for immediate resale. It will pay for the new suit I am having made from material offered me by a customer at cost price. Light weight dark grey, it should do well for the summer at home. Ian Purslow has arrived, the first of a series of changes that we are going to have up until the time I come home. My relief has been announced to arrive here on 27th May which means I should be home at the middle of June, latest, if all goes well. I am handing over my department on Febrary and will then take on a light job whcih I will combine with general supervision of the old one. This is a pleasing way to do things as normally a "take over" is such a last minute rush. Saw the beginning of the eclipse of the moon last week. A very clear sky for it. Caroline takes me out nightly for a "ss saw" on the swing in the garden and knows where to look for the moon. Margo has made her some pyjamas with feet in and the effect is that of a baby Panda, must get a photo one of these days.
Cheerio for now and love,
Margo, Peter and Caroline
20th Oct 1957
Written on HSBC Calcutta headed airmail letter. Addressed to Mr & Mrs L.V.C. Briggs, 65 Tamworth Park, Mitcham, Surrey from P.H. Briggs at 31 Dalhousie Square.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter which arrived a day before our strike ended. Yes, it is all over after 31 days and in retrospect was very interesting and though I say it we did very well and I believe maintained a better service than any other bank. Most places maintained a cash service but our bill departments also operated. Of course the clearing hasn't opened yet and hundreds of cheques will block proper working for two or more weeks yet, but nevertheless without unforseen difficulties my own department will be on a properly running basis before the end of next week. My ordinary work was further complicated with the arrival of many ships and a few railway goods in transit but these including Rs 2000000 worth of steel have been cared for in almost a normal manner. Unfortunately, the settlement terms were not what we wished for owing to the usual lack of assistance or understanding by government and I think they can expect another attempt at wrecking their own economy in the New Year. Our phone, luckily is free! It has been very useful in the last two weeks as Margo was very ill with a tummy upset first though to be dysentry. The doctor had 3 tries at presenting the right medicine and finally fixed things. Very worrying as Margo lost a stone in weight - but is OK now and I am confident that she will be very fit by 9th Nov. especially as a cool breeze has sprung up heralding the winter's approach. I have a complete weekend off and a holiday on Tuesday which I am going to use so we shall go out into the sun and try to receive our holiday good looks. Caroline continues her odd teething series and has produced a double tooth before completing her singles. It came through without the slightest bother and she is in so fine a form that she continues to put on weight at an age when slackening off would be expected. Borneo would be pleasant to go to but I believe there is little work there. My name is still down for Shanghai and with planned expansion of business in China a posting there next tour might be productive. My special regards to Mr & Mrs Smith when you see them and our love to you all,
Margo, Caroline and Peter.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter which arrived a day before our strike ended. Yes, it is all over after 31 days and in retrospect was very interesting and though I say it we did very well and I believe maintained a better service than any other bank. Most places maintained a cash service but our bill departments also operated. Of course the clearing hasn't opened yet and hundreds of cheques will block proper working for two or more weeks yet, but nevertheless without unforseen difficulties my own department will be on a properly running basis before the end of next week. My ordinary work was further complicated with the arrival of many ships and a few railway goods in transit but these including Rs 2000000 worth of steel have been cared for in almost a normal manner. Unfortunately, the settlement terms were not what we wished for owing to the usual lack of assistance or understanding by government and I think they can expect another attempt at wrecking their own economy in the New Year. Our phone, luckily is free! It has been very useful in the last two weeks as Margo was very ill with a tummy upset first though to be dysentry. The doctor had 3 tries at presenting the right medicine and finally fixed things. Very worrying as Margo lost a stone in weight - but is OK now and I am confident that she will be very fit by 9th Nov. especially as a cool breeze has sprung up heralding the winter's approach. I have a complete weekend off and a holiday on Tuesday which I am going to use so we shall go out into the sun and try to receive our holiday good looks. Caroline continues her odd teething series and has produced a double tooth before completing her singles. It came through without the slightest bother and she is in so fine a form that she continues to put on weight at an age when slackening off would be expected. Borneo would be pleasant to go to but I believe there is little work there. My name is still down for Shanghai and with planned expansion of business in China a posting there next tour might be productive. My special regards to Mr & Mrs Smith when you see them and our love to you all,
Margo, Caroline and Peter.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
1.10.57
Hongkong Bank,
31 Dalhousie Square,
PO Box 158 Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you for your letter from Richmond and also the one before which I did not answer. Biddy Sawtell unfortunately lost her baby girl at birth - even more unfortunate because it was a girl which they wanted and also because she has a rh-neg blood group as she ought not to have a third child. Do not worry about sending anything at the moment. Firstly because we do not like to ask people who offer, to do too much and secondly because it is more simple for Margo to put the details in her letter home. Margo hasn't written to you for the same reason that I have not written to Sydenham. The effort required is just too much (the pen I am using is slipping from perspiration) and we do well to write our own individual letters. Perhaps the cold weather will revive us but this third year in Calcutta is telling - thank goodness we do not have to complete a fourth. Our lives are pretty dull too which gives less incentive to write and my own past record has been badly spoilt - I ought to have written to Jan, Reg & Henry, Douglas and half a dozen others - but my mind has been to concerned with the office which just never settles down - I haven't had a moments peace since March, always something new to worry about and all problems seem to have to remain pending, which I detest - I always like to clear things up and I am just trying to adjust my ideas and accepting things as they come. I look forward to inspecting your new decorations which must have changed things considerably - our newest piece of furniture is a telephone which was installed this morning. We have been waiting long enough and are the last in the bank to have one put in. Just in time too for Margo is leaving the office in two weeks time and I shall be able to phone her at home. The baby, due in November, is according to the doctor, to be another girl so it looks as though I can have (?) future waited on hand and foot by my daughters. Names, provisionally, will be Michael John or Adrienne Elisabeth. I think numbers would be much simpler, names take a lot of working out and we have only just agreed on these - I think.
Our famous Puja holidays which would have given us from Saturday to Thursday next have been wrecked by the strike which started on 18th. You cannot imagine the chaos. Clearing of cheques has stopped. Some banks have no one in them. We have the foreign staff and local girls working and have been able to do an hours cash pay out and in daily. Without any assistance I have been endeavouring to handle bills, receive cash and pass entries grant loans & trust receipts even issued some letters of credit and organised deliveries of goods from the godown. Balanced my major accounts on Sunday with surprising success and hope to get some bills ready for payment in the next two days but it will be pretty hopeless if it keeps going. Each transaction involves so many slips, stamps, keys, registers and searching for documents, exchange control licences and contracts - using cupboards, drawers and safes handled by two dozen clerks that the backlog of untouched incoming mail is already of large proportions. Still we have achieved a great deal - more than many other branches, some of which have just not bother to try. The annoying thing is the intimidation of clerks who would normally come in. My supervisor has put in an appearance for the last two days and I am hoping he will last. two other clerks who would be invaluable have phoned to say the are just too scared to come in - maddening as with them I could really get cracking. Still it is all experience and odd to do all the donkey work on entries which on a normal busy day one just has time to initial. We have taken to-day off by the manager's instruction, thus you are receiving this letter - but if there is a long gap you will know that I am occupied fully. There are indications that it will spread to other parts of India as Bombay, Delhi and Patna have had demonstrations.
Arissa is South of West Bengal and Golpalput is in the South of Arissa, 350 miles from Calcutta. (Dad has drawn a map on the letter - Editor).
Cannot think of any particular books that you can send - not much help am I? Your last selection were well read but a bit light for my taste. I think the best choice is historical or biographical - you can send me a tie if you can disguise it as a letter but don't worry - Your card is all that is specially looked forward to.
Cheerio for now and all our love,
Caroline, Margo & Peter
Temperature 98F
Humidity 96%
Monsoon has officially ended.
(First mention of my sister Adrienne. Little did Dad know that he would have four daughters to wait on him hand and foot.)
31 Dalhousie Square,
PO Box 158 Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you for your letter from Richmond and also the one before which I did not answer. Biddy Sawtell unfortunately lost her baby girl at birth - even more unfortunate because it was a girl which they wanted and also because she has a rh-neg blood group as she ought not to have a third child. Do not worry about sending anything at the moment. Firstly because we do not like to ask people who offer, to do too much and secondly because it is more simple for Margo to put the details in her letter home. Margo hasn't written to you for the same reason that I have not written to Sydenham. The effort required is just too much (the pen I am using is slipping from perspiration) and we do well to write our own individual letters. Perhaps the cold weather will revive us but this third year in Calcutta is telling - thank goodness we do not have to complete a fourth. Our lives are pretty dull too which gives less incentive to write and my own past record has been badly spoilt - I ought to have written to Jan, Reg & Henry, Douglas and half a dozen others - but my mind has been to concerned with the office which just never settles down - I haven't had a moments peace since March, always something new to worry about and all problems seem to have to remain pending, which I detest - I always like to clear things up and I am just trying to adjust my ideas and accepting things as they come. I look forward to inspecting your new decorations which must have changed things considerably - our newest piece of furniture is a telephone which was installed this morning. We have been waiting long enough and are the last in the bank to have one put in. Just in time too for Margo is leaving the office in two weeks time and I shall be able to phone her at home. The baby, due in November, is according to the doctor, to be another girl so it looks as though I can have (?) future waited on hand and foot by my daughters. Names, provisionally, will be Michael John or Adrienne Elisabeth. I think numbers would be much simpler, names take a lot of working out and we have only just agreed on these - I think.
Our famous Puja holidays which would have given us from Saturday to Thursday next have been wrecked by the strike which started on 18th. You cannot imagine the chaos. Clearing of cheques has stopped. Some banks have no one in them. We have the foreign staff and local girls working and have been able to do an hours cash pay out and in daily. Without any assistance I have been endeavouring to handle bills, receive cash and pass entries grant loans & trust receipts even issued some letters of credit and organised deliveries of goods from the godown. Balanced my major accounts on Sunday with surprising success and hope to get some bills ready for payment in the next two days but it will be pretty hopeless if it keeps going. Each transaction involves so many slips, stamps, keys, registers and searching for documents, exchange control licences and contracts - using cupboards, drawers and safes handled by two dozen clerks that the backlog of untouched incoming mail is already of large proportions. Still we have achieved a great deal - more than many other branches, some of which have just not bother to try. The annoying thing is the intimidation of clerks who would normally come in. My supervisor has put in an appearance for the last two days and I am hoping he will last. two other clerks who would be invaluable have phoned to say the are just too scared to come in - maddening as with them I could really get cracking. Still it is all experience and odd to do all the donkey work on entries which on a normal busy day one just has time to initial. We have taken to-day off by the manager's instruction, thus you are receiving this letter - but if there is a long gap you will know that I am occupied fully. There are indications that it will spread to other parts of India as Bombay, Delhi and Patna have had demonstrations.
Arissa is South of West Bengal and Golpalput is in the South of Arissa, 350 miles from Calcutta. (Dad has drawn a map on the letter - Editor).
Cannot think of any particular books that you can send - not much help am I? Your last selection were well read but a bit light for my taste. I think the best choice is historical or biographical - you can send me a tie if you can disguise it as a letter but don't worry - Your card is all that is specially looked forward to.
Cheerio for now and all our love,
Caroline, Margo & Peter
Temperature 98F
Humidity 96%
Monsoon has officially ended.
(First mention of my sister Adrienne. Little did Dad know that he would have four daughters to wait on him hand and foot.)
Thursday, March 12, 2009
18.3.57
Written on a Hongkong and Shanghai Bank printed air letter for Calcutta.
Scribbled this off now as worked to 7pm to-night and we are out Tues. Wed & Thursday -very social! P.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Your letter arrived as mine left so you will have two close to-gether. Most interested in the source and facts of Margarets's mention of trouble in Calcutta - news to me, Hammond, Black and Bacon are going on normal UK leave and Lloyd has been promoted. We presume Mills and Howard are on normal moves - in a few month's time. The only trouble we have is Indian customers, I shall probably be completely "round the bend" when I arrive home! They have just had 2 election results in Calcutta - out of 40 or so to come - 47 injured and one motor cycle burnt. They are all nuts! We laugh heartily when we hear that the outside world is just beginning to realize through the UN what they are like. They will say anything as long as it suits them - their logic is from Alice in Wonderland - and as for Menon, well I have him or his double at my desk all day long - every day. They are all detestable cheats, liars and rogues, the worst being concentrated in Bengal.
Most interested in the rubber shares - my advice is to get out now and stay out. There is no one who can predict what will happen in Malaya after June - and rubber has always been most uncertain. Guess I cant say anything about Standards as when I could not get them at my price I did not press the matter - However, if they slump on the dock strike, buy! All motor firms will benefit from the European Union and I can see some amalgamations coming off for mass production in a big way. Agree on your remarks re P. Bonds but have no time to deal with shares.
Cheerio for now & love Peter.
Scribbled this off now as worked to 7pm to-night and we are out Tues. Wed & Thursday -very social! P.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Your letter arrived as mine left so you will have two close to-gether. Most interested in the source and facts of Margarets's mention of trouble in Calcutta - news to me, Hammond, Black and Bacon are going on normal UK leave and Lloyd has been promoted. We presume Mills and Howard are on normal moves - in a few month's time. The only trouble we have is Indian customers, I shall probably be completely "round the bend" when I arrive home! They have just had 2 election results in Calcutta - out of 40 or so to come - 47 injured and one motor cycle burnt. They are all nuts! We laugh heartily when we hear that the outside world is just beginning to realize through the UN what they are like. They will say anything as long as it suits them - their logic is from Alice in Wonderland - and as for Menon, well I have him or his double at my desk all day long - every day. They are all detestable cheats, liars and rogues, the worst being concentrated in Bengal.
Most interested in the rubber shares - my advice is to get out now and stay out. There is no one who can predict what will happen in Malaya after June - and rubber has always been most uncertain. Guess I cant say anything about Standards as when I could not get them at my price I did not press the matter - However, if they slump on the dock strike, buy! All motor firms will benefit from the European Union and I can see some amalgamations coming off for mass production in a big way. Agree on your remarks re P. Bonds but have no time to deal with shares.
Cheerio for now & love Peter.
25.2.57
Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter and family tree, it covers enough for Margo's tree in the book. I am sure that I thanked you for my Christmas presents - they did arrive safely and have been well read. I cannot pretend towards anything but the latest murder mystery which we obtain in paper backed editions. I find, apart from these, that I am interested in a near factual historical novel - or pure history. Arther Bryant is very good and anything of his published since 1955 would be enjoyed. I think I have read most of his on Pepys, but believe he started a History of England series though I have forgotten the titles. Hope you can hire a projector when the film arrives - I know it can be done, perhaps one of Alan's people at work will know if he asks around. Fancy Rumania paying out on the oil shares - I wonder why? Now that I am busy share enquiries are an impossibility - guess Ian is more in a position to be reliable - wait till I am working in Securities in Singapore or Hongkong and I may have better knowledge. Amused at your phrase re Stilliard & London as "something to aim at" because their is nothing to aim at in our organisation - it just happens - for such a varity of reasons it is not worth even considering - merely the availability of accommodation at a particular branch may sit one on a course to promotion or the other way around. It is difficult to explain but there are only 250 on the staff with a large proportion on leave at any one time and for rest 1/3 = positions, 1/3 = in the middle, 1/3 = juniors.
and I am nearly at the top of the bottom 1/3 now. With 2 to 3 tours to go before I start looking around. Meanwhile, there is a lot to learn and conditions change faster than we can put them on paper. Dick Lloyd, who is to be Accountant in Colombo is 40 years old and still amongst several of his seniority without an appointment. Its the job you have at 48 or 50 which counts and I am not looking that far ahead (I'm not 30 yet!)
Saw Hitchcock's 'Dial M for Murder' this evening - he is brilliant. It was like a book and a play in one with all the touches that only he presents so delightfully - Very relaxing.
Frank and Avril Thomas have the Christening for Judith on Sunday next and I am reeling off my second film for them. It will be a morning service and so plenty of light - I hope it comes out as well as in the first one.
Ian Sillars wrote with all his news. Elaine's late teeth and early walking may be copied by Caroline. She is standing with support in pram and cot and fully and universally mobile in four legs. "Da da has been a theme song for the past few weeks and we are trying to switch to mama -.
Cannot write more, my pen hand is failing.
Love to you all,
Margo, Peter & Caroline
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter and family tree, it covers enough for Margo's tree in the book. I am sure that I thanked you for my Christmas presents - they did arrive safely and have been well read. I cannot pretend towards anything but the latest murder mystery which we obtain in paper backed editions. I find, apart from these, that I am interested in a near factual historical novel - or pure history. Arther Bryant is very good and anything of his published since 1955 would be enjoyed. I think I have read most of his on Pepys, but believe he started a History of England series though I have forgotten the titles. Hope you can hire a projector when the film arrives - I know it can be done, perhaps one of Alan's people at work will know if he asks around. Fancy Rumania paying out on the oil shares - I wonder why? Now that I am busy share enquiries are an impossibility - guess Ian is more in a position to be reliable - wait till I am working in Securities in Singapore or Hongkong and I may have better knowledge. Amused at your phrase re Stilliard & London as "something to aim at" because their is nothing to aim at in our organisation - it just happens - for such a varity of reasons it is not worth even considering - merely the availability of accommodation at a particular branch may sit one on a course to promotion or the other way around. It is difficult to explain but there are only 250 on the staff with a large proportion on leave at any one time and for rest 1/3 = positions, 1/3 = in the middle, 1/3 = juniors.
and I am nearly at the top of the bottom 1/3 now. With 2 to 3 tours to go before I start looking around. Meanwhile, there is a lot to learn and conditions change faster than we can put them on paper. Dick Lloyd, who is to be Accountant in Colombo is 40 years old and still amongst several of his seniority without an appointment. Its the job you have at 48 or 50 which counts and I am not looking that far ahead (I'm not 30 yet!)
Saw Hitchcock's 'Dial M for Murder' this evening - he is brilliant. It was like a book and a play in one with all the touches that only he presents so delightfully - Very relaxing.
Frank and Avril Thomas have the Christening for Judith on Sunday next and I am reeling off my second film for them. It will be a morning service and so plenty of light - I hope it comes out as well as in the first one.
Ian Sillars wrote with all his news. Elaine's late teeth and early walking may be copied by Caroline. She is standing with support in pram and cot and fully and universally mobile in four legs. "Da da has been a theme song for the past few weeks and we are trying to switch to mama -.
Cannot write more, my pen hand is failing.
Love to you all,
Margo, Peter & Caroline
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
13th February, 1957
The Hongkong & Shanghai BC
PO Box 158, Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter - I am a little sleepy after a party last night and am now reclining at leisure sipping a glass of sherry (my last bottle in India as prices are doubling with the new import tax) and as we have a cool spell at the moment the fire is being lit by Mohammed, just for decoration. Ken Rice has been in Hongkong for the last two years in charge of a senior department there so this is a bit of a let down - or so it seems, but one can never tell. Roger Stilliard thought at one time that he had been passed over as Acct in Penang, but he is to be temporary Sub Manager in London in June, a job that would suit anyone, with the possibility of a better office afterwards.
We haven't received the film yet. I am not very hopeful of success as I have since learnt that I was doing something wrong. being of fixed focus close range stuff is not effective unless on a small "stop" and I had not allowed for this. Still something should come out. What is the homeside price for a Kodak or Bell and Howell 8mm. It is worth having a good one. I can always borrow one here & keep one at home for you. Alan can operated it for one month then it could go over to Sydenham for a month etc etc. They are very portable. I'd like to do this instead of birthday & Christmas presents for a year provided it is under 50 pounds. Let me know.
Have sold out in EMI at a small profit. All is going into Premium Bonds now, will be funny if Caroline's came up and not mine!
Yes I have seen a lot of the still projectors for colour transparencies but all in all the cine film is much the best for the job I am after - and that is to give you more of Caroline than a still photo provides.
Am out of shares now except for Oil - cannot give my mind to it whilst doing the new job. There are new restrictions everyday and as we have many contacts with government their illogical unreason takes 100% attention.
The Daily Mail camp is interesting but of course an impossible gamble. They have started at the highest peak in the worst period of the year. The only reactions on the market before May will be unpredictable. I picked EMI Fords and Bowater and then realised that I could not expect a profit until December next. for that date they are all good buys. I only pay half commissions, obtaining the banks's shared brokerage for myself. Bank shares are free of tax to residents abroad but most others are not. Watch for the price of bank shares in April if they go down to 77 or near then.
Can you let me know the full names of your parents, my grandparents. Margo has a Babys Book which has to have everything in including footprints and there is a family tree. I ought to know but the names are forgotten for the moment. You might mention any before that if you can remember.
Closing off now - Carol must be near teething with bright red cheeks but nothing broken through yet. She is full of vitality and difficult to hold - never keeps still unless asleep.
Love from us all,
Peter
PO Box 158, Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter - I am a little sleepy after a party last night and am now reclining at leisure sipping a glass of sherry (my last bottle in India as prices are doubling with the new import tax) and as we have a cool spell at the moment the fire is being lit by Mohammed, just for decoration. Ken Rice has been in Hongkong for the last two years in charge of a senior department there so this is a bit of a let down - or so it seems, but one can never tell. Roger Stilliard thought at one time that he had been passed over as Acct in Penang, but he is to be temporary Sub Manager in London in June, a job that would suit anyone, with the possibility of a better office afterwards.
We haven't received the film yet. I am not very hopeful of success as I have since learnt that I was doing something wrong. being of fixed focus close range stuff is not effective unless on a small "stop" and I had not allowed for this. Still something should come out. What is the homeside price for a Kodak or Bell and Howell 8mm. It is worth having a good one. I can always borrow one here & keep one at home for you. Alan can operated it for one month then it could go over to Sydenham for a month etc etc. They are very portable. I'd like to do this instead of birthday & Christmas presents for a year provided it is under 50 pounds. Let me know.
Have sold out in EMI at a small profit. All is going into Premium Bonds now, will be funny if Caroline's came up and not mine!
Yes I have seen a lot of the still projectors for colour transparencies but all in all the cine film is much the best for the job I am after - and that is to give you more of Caroline than a still photo provides.
Am out of shares now except for Oil - cannot give my mind to it whilst doing the new job. There are new restrictions everyday and as we have many contacts with government their illogical unreason takes 100% attention.
The Daily Mail camp is interesting but of course an impossible gamble. They have started at the highest peak in the worst period of the year. The only reactions on the market before May will be unpredictable. I picked EMI Fords and Bowater and then realised that I could not expect a profit until December next. for that date they are all good buys. I only pay half commissions, obtaining the banks's shared brokerage for myself. Bank shares are free of tax to residents abroad but most others are not. Watch for the price of bank shares in April if they go down to 77 or near then.
Can you let me know the full names of your parents, my grandparents. Margo has a Babys Book which has to have everything in including footprints and there is a family tree. I ought to know but the names are forgotten for the moment. You might mention any before that if you can remember.
Closing off now - Carol must be near teething with bright red cheeks but nothing broken through yet. She is full of vitality and difficult to hold - never keeps still unless asleep.
Love from us all,
Peter
Saturday, March 7, 2009
23.1.57
H & S BC PO Box 158
Calcutta
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
I think that I have been holding your last letter, written by Dad and Alan, for a week. It is in the office and I am at home - as it is an odd holiday so hope that I miss nothing out of importance. The office has kept me well occupied. Apart from the ? job which in itself would normally have me giving it a lot of attention, the first month of the year with auditors in and half yearly accounts to prepare has carried a great deal of extra details which have had an accumalative effect. Another couple of weeks and we shall be in a routine I expect but I have enjoyed the break from the horrid monotony of the other deary job and am back on the "bills" job which I had on a tempory basis when I first arrived in Calcutta. Because I no longer have telegrams to look after and can have free weekends and half an hour more in the morning I am trying to master that game of golf. Was out this morning at six and met a number of evil smelling vultures on the 14th tee. Horrid things they are too and had to shoo one away before driving off. Conditions are just right to stroll around as the sun is rising, but I enjoy my relaxation so much that I forget to keep going on the game but its good fun. Dorothy wrote with lots of news and her sherry has arrived safely - I hope yours has too. Mrs Aylett & Barbara have received their parcels so am hoping the one to you is in order also. The packing had been damaged a lot but the contents were secure. We have enjoyed the last of our Christmas parties and attended Peter Hammond's wedding which was very good indeed. It reminded us of our own as other weddings had failed to do and we both had a grand time.
A friend of ours has lent us a cine USA Kodak Brownie and to-day we have attempted the first colour shots of Caroline. If successful we will send them to you and hope that someone can lend you a project - 8mm - to see them on. There will not be very many as the expense is something awful - neither will they be edited or artistic, but you may have something, a little better than "still" photos, of your granddaughter - and I can edit them when on leave. This camera has not been used before and we may buy it. It is certainly simple to operate and as you can imagine it has brought back memories of A.I.P. We have been advised to save money on the camera and buy a good projector, but this will have to wait a while.
I find that I have not bought Standards's - my limits were not free enough - but they have appeared steady for a month now. I am in Burma Oil & E.M.I with orders to sell and when out of these hope to have my total cash in P. Bonds. Think that something is bound to come up before it is time for leave. You will have no doubt calculated on the tendency for a rise (short one) as Mr Mac becomes established and when the canal opens. There will be some doubt at first as to whether our ships will be allowed through but in the long run, it is a fair bet, they will be. The market reacts childishly to odd short term events and you may be able to cash in on semi blue chip industrials. My favorites:- Fords & Bowaters are a bit up and so are Rolls - Standards are OK at or near 6/-, but all should take a dip in the next 3 months. However, for me to act I need a telephone and a broker to buy on the day, as the news breaks. My realization, that the prices morning and afternoon may change by a fair margin, has come slowly. As you know, I believe in quick profits between 10 to 20 pounds, on 100 pound lumps, to be taken clear and regardless of future possibilities; bearing in mind that a minimum of 5% p. a. free of tax, on total liquid capital, is zero point. This may be a very simple "system" but it is nice and safe and though it takes trouble I am sure that I could always work it - provided not too much money is involved - my target of 100 pound p.a. on 500 pound is now 60 pounds up with a month to go and if it falls short it will be mainly because I have stepped out. For really big killings I am know how is vital - the certain tip and nothing else. I have been watching Hongkong Bank shares, now at 93 pounds - were at 79 pounds at Suez Crisis time. It seems if you buy low between dividend times DEC-JUNE-DEC they invarably go above the dividends' worth. I think a minimum of 8 pounds per share twice a year free of tax (don't take dividends into account) worth having. If you see a low price less than 85 pounds better 80-82 pounds before July take up to 5 shares and watch them, there may be a small picking before the year is out. 1964 might be a goo year as it is our centenary but is a long way off. People get put off by the price but I see no difference between buying say 100 pounds worth of Standards or an H & SBC 85 pounds for share.
Enough of shares - hope the weather is not too severe for January - ours is moving to summer soon and evenings are lighter.
Cheerio for now love from Margo, Caroline and
Peter.
Calcutta
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
I think that I have been holding your last letter, written by Dad and Alan, for a week. It is in the office and I am at home - as it is an odd holiday so hope that I miss nothing out of importance. The office has kept me well occupied. Apart from the ? job which in itself would normally have me giving it a lot of attention, the first month of the year with auditors in and half yearly accounts to prepare has carried a great deal of extra details which have had an accumalative effect. Another couple of weeks and we shall be in a routine I expect but I have enjoyed the break from the horrid monotony of the other deary job and am back on the "bills" job which I had on a tempory basis when I first arrived in Calcutta. Because I no longer have telegrams to look after and can have free weekends and half an hour more in the morning I am trying to master that game of golf. Was out this morning at six and met a number of evil smelling vultures on the 14th tee. Horrid things they are too and had to shoo one away before driving off. Conditions are just right to stroll around as the sun is rising, but I enjoy my relaxation so much that I forget to keep going on the game but its good fun. Dorothy wrote with lots of news and her sherry has arrived safely - I hope yours has too. Mrs Aylett & Barbara have received their parcels so am hoping the one to you is in order also. The packing had been damaged a lot but the contents were secure. We have enjoyed the last of our Christmas parties and attended Peter Hammond's wedding which was very good indeed. It reminded us of our own as other weddings had failed to do and we both had a grand time.
A friend of ours has lent us a cine USA Kodak Brownie and to-day we have attempted the first colour shots of Caroline. If successful we will send them to you and hope that someone can lend you a project - 8mm - to see them on. There will not be very many as the expense is something awful - neither will they be edited or artistic, but you may have something, a little better than "still" photos, of your granddaughter - and I can edit them when on leave. This camera has not been used before and we may buy it. It is certainly simple to operate and as you can imagine it has brought back memories of A.I.P. We have been advised to save money on the camera and buy a good projector, but this will have to wait a while.
I find that I have not bought Standards's - my limits were not free enough - but they have appeared steady for a month now. I am in Burma Oil & E.M.I with orders to sell and when out of these hope to have my total cash in P. Bonds. Think that something is bound to come up before it is time for leave. You will have no doubt calculated on the tendency for a rise (short one) as Mr Mac becomes established and when the canal opens. There will be some doubt at first as to whether our ships will be allowed through but in the long run, it is a fair bet, they will be. The market reacts childishly to odd short term events and you may be able to cash in on semi blue chip industrials. My favorites:- Fords & Bowaters are a bit up and so are Rolls - Standards are OK at or near 6/-, but all should take a dip in the next 3 months. However, for me to act I need a telephone and a broker to buy on the day, as the news breaks. My realization, that the prices morning and afternoon may change by a fair margin, has come slowly. As you know, I believe in quick profits between 10 to 20 pounds, on 100 pound lumps, to be taken clear and regardless of future possibilities; bearing in mind that a minimum of 5% p. a. free of tax, on total liquid capital, is zero point. This may be a very simple "system" but it is nice and safe and though it takes trouble I am sure that I could always work it - provided not too much money is involved - my target of 100 pound p.a. on 500 pound is now 60 pounds up with a month to go and if it falls short it will be mainly because I have stepped out. For really big killings I am know how is vital - the certain tip and nothing else. I have been watching Hongkong Bank shares, now at 93 pounds - were at 79 pounds at Suez Crisis time. It seems if you buy low between dividend times DEC-JUNE-DEC they invarably go above the dividends' worth. I think a minimum of 8 pounds per share twice a year free of tax (don't take dividends into account) worth having. If you see a low price less than 85 pounds better 80-82 pounds before July take up to 5 shares and watch them, there may be a small picking before the year is out. 1964 might be a goo year as it is our centenary but is a long way off. People get put off by the price but I see no difference between buying say 100 pounds worth of Standards or an H & SBC 85 pounds for share.
Enough of shares - hope the weather is not too severe for January - ours is moving to summer soon and evenings are lighter.
Cheerio for now love from Margo, Caroline and
Peter.
Undated - sometime in January.
The other side shows the contents of the film which has turned out better than expected. Dennis Bacon is taking it home with him next week and will post it to you. Since writing last I have heard that it is easy to hire a projector and seeing that there will not be many films to show at first I suggest that you try to do this - Margo's Uncle Reg may know where to get one from. The camera seems to be as good as I need and I shall buy it and hope to take a picture of me in the next one. I hope Caroline's teeth come through soon as she is beginning to look a little odd with out them - despite the fact that she can chew biscuits & rusks quite happily. She is now moving more than in the film and has been caught standing by holding on to the cot rails. Quite a bundle of energy and very quick to notice things - will wave goodbye and is trying to clap hands but always misses. We are considering a mark II addition, but it is a bit tricky with leave coming up next year, however, we shall see.
We had a cold snap over the weekend but to-day has switched to heat and humidity - not quite hot yet but the promise is there. The winter all in all has been a good one, but I shall be glad to have some rain to clean the dirt away. It is really a filthy place.
We have had two amusing weekends with customers. One visiting a place making tractors and another - wholesalers of textiles. Bought several lengths of shirting, trousering and stuff for dresses etc. We had to take our shoes off because the material is unfolded all over the place until we were surrounded by bolts of cloth of every colour. As this has developed into a letter am sending it off before yours comes.
Love from Margo Peter & Caroline
!st Cine film 50 feet 8mm Colour shot in January 1957 (this is now also on video)
Caroline in pram Verander No 8 Middleton Mansions
Lifted into Play Pen
Through the bars
Same place ply pen removed
Sam
Caroline crawling
Picked up and sitting on Margo's lap
Sitting in High Chair for lunch
Gobbling Spinich
Drinking from Cup
Margo and pram
Held by Margo
Playing on rug on grass
Held by Ayah
Drinking orange juice
Brief shot of Charles Howard (young boy)
Two odd shots
Long pan shot across Madan from St Pauls Cathedral to the Victoria Memorial
Strut Corner and street scene (opposite Lighthouse cinema) of book shops traffic etc.
Film to arrive during Feb/March
We had a cold snap over the weekend but to-day has switched to heat and humidity - not quite hot yet but the promise is there. The winter all in all has been a good one, but I shall be glad to have some rain to clean the dirt away. It is really a filthy place.
We have had two amusing weekends with customers. One visiting a place making tractors and another - wholesalers of textiles. Bought several lengths of shirting, trousering and stuff for dresses etc. We had to take our shoes off because the material is unfolded all over the place until we were surrounded by bolts of cloth of every colour. As this has developed into a letter am sending it off before yours comes.
Love from Margo Peter & Caroline
!st Cine film 50 feet 8mm Colour shot in January 1957 (this is now also on video)
Caroline in pram Verander No 8 Middleton Mansions
Lifted into Play Pen
Through the bars
Same place ply pen removed
Sam
Caroline crawling
Picked up and sitting on Margo's lap
Sitting in High Chair for lunch
Gobbling Spinich
Drinking from Cup
Margo and pram
Held by Margo
Playing on rug on grass
Held by Ayah
Drinking orange juice
Brief shot of Charles Howard (young boy)
Two odd shots
Long pan shot across Madan from St Pauls Cathedral to the Victoria Memorial
Strut Corner and street scene (opposite Lighthouse cinema) of book shops traffic etc.
Film to arrive during Feb/March
11th Dec. 56
H & SBC Calcutta
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter and cards. I enclose Alan's Christmas present and hop it will come in useful. Hope those studies do not fall of as I cannot imagine them being done once married. I have noted the numbers of Caroline's certificates and once again thank you for them. We did celebrate our anniversary by having a Chinese dinner. It was of a more special venture than usual having been ordered in advance and containing all of our favourite dishes. I also bought Margo some earrings but have an idea (quite confidentially) that they were the wrong sort. But we husbands take time to learn the ins and outs of these things. We had a large bank party outdoors last night. Unfortunately it was a little cold, but otherwise the coloured decorations and torchfire on which kebab was cooked made the surroundings for such a party unusual. We have Frank Thomas to dinner to-night as Avril had her baby, a girl, on Sunday. On Wednesday we are out in honour of twins born to a friend of Margos on Thursday. We do our first Christmas entertaining to 6 to dinner one of whom will be someone who knew Barbara in London, form the Chartered and on Friday we are out to the couple we know from AEI. So evidently the "season" is in full swing and each evening at 10.30pm I think longingly of bed and pull myself to-gether for another 2 hours. signs of old age. Caroline has had her 3rd vaccination and this time it has taken. On the foot and very unsightly - poor thing she was very happy at all and the whole week her smiles have been hard to maintain. She sits up now with one hand holding something - some photos to come. I hope your presents & cards arrive OK but they might be late. Am pleasantly busy just now and am doing this whilst at lunch. Must get it off as there is no time for later writing. Everyone is in good form including the dog & the fist.
Love from Margo Caroline & Peter
(editor's note - the dog was a dachsund named Sammy. I don't know anything about the fish!)
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter and cards. I enclose Alan's Christmas present and hop it will come in useful. Hope those studies do not fall of as I cannot imagine them being done once married. I have noted the numbers of Caroline's certificates and once again thank you for them. We did celebrate our anniversary by having a Chinese dinner. It was of a more special venture than usual having been ordered in advance and containing all of our favourite dishes. I also bought Margo some earrings but have an idea (quite confidentially) that they were the wrong sort. But we husbands take time to learn the ins and outs of these things. We had a large bank party outdoors last night. Unfortunately it was a little cold, but otherwise the coloured decorations and torchfire on which kebab was cooked made the surroundings for such a party unusual. We have Frank Thomas to dinner to-night as Avril had her baby, a girl, on Sunday. On Wednesday we are out in honour of twins born to a friend of Margos on Thursday. We do our first Christmas entertaining to 6 to dinner one of whom will be someone who knew Barbara in London, form the Chartered and on Friday we are out to the couple we know from AEI. So evidently the "season" is in full swing and each evening at 10.30pm I think longingly of bed and pull myself to-gether for another 2 hours. signs of old age. Caroline has had her 3rd vaccination and this time it has taken. On the foot and very unsightly - poor thing she was very happy at all and the whole week her smiles have been hard to maintain. She sits up now with one hand holding something - some photos to come. I hope your presents & cards arrive OK but they might be late. Am pleasantly busy just now and am doing this whilst at lunch. Must get it off as there is no time for later writing. Everyone is in good form including the dog & the fist.
Love from Margo Caroline & Peter
(editor's note - the dog was a dachsund named Sammy. I don't know anything about the fish!)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
23.10.56
H.S.B.C.
Dear Mum, Dad & Alan
Many thanks for your letter - yes the Streatham must be on the way round the Cape of Good Hope! Never mind it will arrive eventually. I am pleased mine wasn't lost as it would have been awkward with the cheque in it. Your life does sound busy. I am sorry that I cannot lend you my bearer he would make things a lot easier for you. He is an excellent servant, very industrious, willing and capable, streets ahead of the usual Calcutta bearer and speaks & writes English. Funny you should mention the bonds as I have asked London to buy some when they issued. Really there is very little interest to come on a small amount and one may as well be in on a repitative sweep. I am curious to see how it will take on in the U.K. as if the Govt can divert some of the money going to the Football Pools to their own pockets it will benefit the country. 1 pound at a time may be too much for the ordinary pocket, but one never knows. It iwll depend a lot on the first burst of enthusiasm and subsequent propaganda. My ? shares in Holsts have declared a dividend and stand above my purchasing price. Without any details I guess it is a 1/2 yrly declaration on the 10% forcast at issue, whcih less tax will probably give me 2 pound 10. However, it is the 1st div I have ever had as I usually sell before they produce. I will not be able to recognise the house after all the changes, but it does sound as if things are being made very smart. Christmas presents & cards to Calcutta are charged duty, but cards & books are O.K. otherwise small things for us when we come home: glassware, linen; towelling. I shall be glad if you will buy something for me for Fiona, Mary, Elaine & Dad and let me have the total cost without fail. We expect to be able to arrange for ? from here.
Last week was again spent in holiday mood as we had Friday & Saturday off so this month in all has appear to go very quickly. Our winter has suddenly arrived and it is cool & sunny, quite chilly in the evenings and the wireless is working again without interference. So good to have music playing.
Everything passed off well at the Christening on Sunday. The weather was good and the service went smoothly althoug Caroline did cry for most of the time - except at the moment of Christening. There was enough sun for a few photos afterwards and I hope to be able to forward these soon. Our final numbers for the following party came to 30 as the usual one or two could not make it at the last moment. The tea, sandwiches (smoked salmon) cakes and the cake were consumed and the champagne & toast, given by Peter Hammond who stood for Alan, were organised as I had hoped. At about six people started to drift away but surprisingly about half stayed until past 10.30pm to a most informal and enjoyable session which used up all the left overs of food and all the whisky which we luckily had allowed for. This was to my mind a good thing as a certain amount of effort had to go into the arrangements and for a good party to develop from a "tea party" meant that it was all that more worth whichle, especially as we will not be able to repeat anything on that scale for some time to come. Margo's arrangements were excellent and in the final analysis we did not find anything which had been forgotten and those who stayed on said they had had an enjoyable tiem.
Love Margo, Peter & Caroline.
Dear Mum, Dad & Alan
Many thanks for your letter - yes the Streatham must be on the way round the Cape of Good Hope! Never mind it will arrive eventually. I am pleased mine wasn't lost as it would have been awkward with the cheque in it. Your life does sound busy. I am sorry that I cannot lend you my bearer he would make things a lot easier for you. He is an excellent servant, very industrious, willing and capable, streets ahead of the usual Calcutta bearer and speaks & writes English. Funny you should mention the bonds as I have asked London to buy some when they issued. Really there is very little interest to come on a small amount and one may as well be in on a repitative sweep. I am curious to see how it will take on in the U.K. as if the Govt can divert some of the money going to the Football Pools to their own pockets it will benefit the country. 1 pound at a time may be too much for the ordinary pocket, but one never knows. It iwll depend a lot on the first burst of enthusiasm and subsequent propaganda. My ? shares in Holsts have declared a dividend and stand above my purchasing price. Without any details I guess it is a 1/2 yrly declaration on the 10% forcast at issue, whcih less tax will probably give me 2 pound 10. However, it is the 1st div I have ever had as I usually sell before they produce. I will not be able to recognise the house after all the changes, but it does sound as if things are being made very smart. Christmas presents & cards to Calcutta are charged duty, but cards & books are O.K. otherwise small things for us when we come home: glassware, linen; towelling. I shall be glad if you will buy something for me for Fiona, Mary, Elaine & Dad and let me have the total cost without fail. We expect to be able to arrange for ? from here.
Last week was again spent in holiday mood as we had Friday & Saturday off so this month in all has appear to go very quickly. Our winter has suddenly arrived and it is cool & sunny, quite chilly in the evenings and the wireless is working again without interference. So good to have music playing.
Everything passed off well at the Christening on Sunday. The weather was good and the service went smoothly althoug Caroline did cry for most of the time - except at the moment of Christening. There was enough sun for a few photos afterwards and I hope to be able to forward these soon. Our final numbers for the following party came to 30 as the usual one or two could not make it at the last moment. The tea, sandwiches (smoked salmon) cakes and the cake were consumed and the champagne & toast, given by Peter Hammond who stood for Alan, were organised as I had hoped. At about six people started to drift away but surprisingly about half stayed until past 10.30pm to a most informal and enjoyable session which used up all the left overs of food and all the whisky which we luckily had allowed for. This was to my mind a good thing as a certain amount of effort had to go into the arrangements and for a good party to develop from a "tea party" meant that it was all that more worth whichle, especially as we will not be able to repeat anything on that scale for some time to come. Margo's arrangements were excellent and in the final analysis we did not find anything which had been forgotten and those who stayed on said they had had an enjoyable tiem.
Love Margo, Peter & Caroline.
11th Jan.56
On Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation printed stationary - Calcutta.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter, all is in a tangle here so this is ing to be quick. The strike on 6th and 7th went off without incedent but the foreign staff again had to do some work. The clearing house is not open either so what or when things will be normal I do not know. On Saturday we went to the Deputy High Commissioners for cocktails to meet the C in C East Indies Station and the officers of the cruiser Gambia. Afterwards on to the Saturday Club for the caberet there. On Sunday we entertained four ratings to buffet supper enjoyed by all. An officer that I met at the party is coming to dinner to-night, so all in all we have had a naval week. Have got a few snaps of the dog which are a bit out of focus but show what he looks like. Shall send them on soon. Margo had another check up this month and all is well. The first difficult period is over and nothing much bothers her now except that she needs plenty of sleep.
This is all for now sorry its so short,
Love and best wishes
Margo & Peter
*Note from the editor. In this letter my father is introducing Sammy the dachsund which he bought before I was born and my mother is pregnant with me. I will find some photos to add to the site in due course.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Many thanks for your letter, all is in a tangle here so this is ing to be quick. The strike on 6th and 7th went off without incedent but the foreign staff again had to do some work. The clearing house is not open either so what or when things will be normal I do not know. On Saturday we went to the Deputy High Commissioners for cocktails to meet the C in C East Indies Station and the officers of the cruiser Gambia. Afterwards on to the Saturday Club for the caberet there. On Sunday we entertained four ratings to buffet supper enjoyed by all. An officer that I met at the party is coming to dinner to-night, so all in all we have had a naval week. Have got a few snaps of the dog which are a bit out of focus but show what he looks like. Shall send them on soon. Margo had another check up this month and all is well. The first difficult period is over and nothing much bothers her now except that she needs plenty of sleep.
This is all for now sorry its so short,
Love and best wishes
Margo & Peter
*Note from the editor. In this letter my father is introducing Sammy the dachsund which he bought before I was born and my mother is pregnant with me. I will find some photos to add to the site in due course.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
23rd Oct. 55
Hongkong Bank,
Calcutta,
Dear Mum, Dad & Alan,
We are now at the beginning of the PUJAS and don't start work until Thursday. It is a series of Hindu holy days when statues of the gods & goddesses are made from river mud, gaily dressed and displayed in colourful "outdoor theatres" for prayer and music. Everyone has a new sari, clothes, etc and all is accompanied by banging & blowing of horns until the last day when the gods or PUJAS are put back into the river. As none of the other branches look at their holiday lists they get furious because wires are unanswered, bills not paid and poor old Calcutta appears to be acting even dumber than usual. Last week was hectic though as at this time there is great market activity. Cottons particularly are wanted for the holidays and woollens for the winter season which officially commences after the PUJAS. So far the first time since I have been here people have wanted to retire their bills two weeks before the due dates instead of four weeks afterwards. We had a very special Saturday yesterday. The Manager and his wife took us to Tollygunge for lunch. Afterwards we strolled across to the races and spent a grand afternoon, finishing with tea in the clubhouse. Mrs Terdre picked up Margo in the car then came on to the bank to collect her husband and myself. Margo had a drink in the manager's office whilst waiting for me to put everything in the pending-tray for Thursday and then off we went in grand style. As the Terdres don't often entertain the staff it made at least one pair of eyes pop open, the owner of them being a little seniority conscious. Actually, I think the reason for the afternoon was that we don't play bridge and usually they invite people to dinner and a cards evening, but though we would be more entertained this way - which we were. In the event also it would be no point to being the manager's favourite as he is retiring soon, the new manager arriving on 12th November, but is it funny to see the obvious reactions in envious eyes. We are lucky, however, in having only one couple that behave this way so we can treat them as a joke.
For tomorrow I have arranged a picnic for eight of us. Untimely rain is falling at the moment so I trust it will clear. The monsoons have ceased and these latter storms are very strange. I went in to do telegrams this morning and coming back had a bow-wave from the car's front wheels most of the way. I tried to buy some film to let you have your first pictures but they had sold out- still we shall get round to it eventually. Hammond has gone on short leave and will be back on 1st Nov to take over bills from me. This take over has been put off so many times that I was hoping it would never happen. Still I think that anything else will be a rest - not that I need it, have kept pretty fit touch wood.
Cheery Bye & Love,
Margo & Peter.
Calcutta,
Dear Mum, Dad & Alan,
We are now at the beginning of the PUJAS and don't start work until Thursday. It is a series of Hindu holy days when statues of the gods & goddesses are made from river mud, gaily dressed and displayed in colourful "outdoor theatres" for prayer and music. Everyone has a new sari, clothes, etc and all is accompanied by banging & blowing of horns until the last day when the gods or PUJAS are put back into the river. As none of the other branches look at their holiday lists they get furious because wires are unanswered, bills not paid and poor old Calcutta appears to be acting even dumber than usual. Last week was hectic though as at this time there is great market activity. Cottons particularly are wanted for the holidays and woollens for the winter season which officially commences after the PUJAS. So far the first time since I have been here people have wanted to retire their bills two weeks before the due dates instead of four weeks afterwards. We had a very special Saturday yesterday. The Manager and his wife took us to Tollygunge for lunch. Afterwards we strolled across to the races and spent a grand afternoon, finishing with tea in the clubhouse. Mrs Terdre picked up Margo in the car then came on to the bank to collect her husband and myself. Margo had a drink in the manager's office whilst waiting for me to put everything in the pending-tray for Thursday and then off we went in grand style. As the Terdres don't often entertain the staff it made at least one pair of eyes pop open, the owner of them being a little seniority conscious. Actually, I think the reason for the afternoon was that we don't play bridge and usually they invite people to dinner and a cards evening, but though we would be more entertained this way - which we were. In the event also it would be no point to being the manager's favourite as he is retiring soon, the new manager arriving on 12th November, but is it funny to see the obvious reactions in envious eyes. We are lucky, however, in having only one couple that behave this way so we can treat them as a joke.
For tomorrow I have arranged a picnic for eight of us. Untimely rain is falling at the moment so I trust it will clear. The monsoons have ceased and these latter storms are very strange. I went in to do telegrams this morning and coming back had a bow-wave from the car's front wheels most of the way. I tried to buy some film to let you have your first pictures but they had sold out- still we shall get round to it eventually. Hammond has gone on short leave and will be back on 1st Nov to take over bills from me. This take over has been put off so many times that I was hoping it would never happen. Still I think that anything else will be a rest - not that I need it, have kept pretty fit touch wood.
Cheery Bye & Love,
Margo & Peter.
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