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Transcript of Rachel Anne Ketton’s Diary

MS/109 1863

1869

Friday 1st January A sharp frost. Went down to the farm. Went to the farm and found John had given Pastons warning as one of the sheep had died of starvation. The others went to Cromer to call on the M Pryor’s and met them coming here – pouring rain all night. Saturday 2nd January Refusal from Mrs Upcher on the ground of fatigue at the Roger’s party. Looked over the plate with Duncan in the morning. Walked in the woods with John in the afternoon. The Directors of ‘O G’ at the Mansion House on a charge of conspiracy yesterday Sunday 3rd January Refusal from Mrs Pigott; invitation for the girls to stay at Northrepps with Anna Mary – Bobbie and Gertie went to Aylmerton and got wet through. Did not go out all day. Monday 4th January Mr Mills called at 11 in a great state about the living as it appears Mr Hutton has again been deceiving. Pricilla and 2 of the girls called upon the Bosworth’s who were out. Spent great part of the day looking over the china and glass. Tuesday 5th January Mr Mills lunched with us and went to Norwich with us afterwards. John, Ellen and I compared the party. A very warm rainy day. Wednesday 6th January Shopping with Ellen till 2.30 home to lunch; shopping again till dark. Spent the evening at Bracondale. John at the quarter sessions hearing the Everett case all day. Duncan left Felbrigge in the morning after 2 ½ years service. Betts came in the evening. Thursday 7th January Went with Ellen to Bridgeman who did not do anything to her teeth. Got to Bracondale at 12 went with Ellen over Bell’s houses and ordered a number of plants. Lunched at Bracondale – got home to Felbrigge at 8. Anna and Margaret went to stay at Northrepps. Friday 8th January Spent the morning over bills and the afternoon in the orange house – very dull day. Saturday 9th January Note from Margaret from Northrepps telling us of H Upcher’s engagement to Miss Sparke of Feltwell – one from Mrs Rogers on the subject of dancing men. Went to Mr Fish’s in the afternoon with Ellen and Robert and asked them to lunch on Friday. George went to Norwich for the day and Betts had all the work for himself. Sunday 10th January Ellen played at both churches. Mr Mills told John he had ascertained that Mr Hutton had another year’s leave of absence.

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Monday 11th January John went justicing and was not home till 5. P T took his seat on the bench – both the Upcher’s were at Feltwell. Anna and Margaret came from Northrepps in a rabid state and looking much thinner than when they went. Mr Fry who was coming to our dance called today he could not come and brought a note of 12 pages from Lady Buxton to the effect that the severe family trials they were passing through prevented their coming as they had agreed. Tuesday 12th January Very busy about the preparations all day. Went with three of the girls and Bobbie to Mrs Rogers dance – about 70 people there and a very successful ball – got home at 4.15. Wednesday 13th January Up at 8.30 dreadful headache. Telegraphed to Howlett the first thing for ball programmes and 2 musicians. Very hard work all day of course. A M Buxton came to tea in the schoolroom and brought her maid. About 50 people came, it was very well managed and went off very well. Thursday 14th January Breakfasted at 10 in the schoolroom and going till lunch after which they took A M Buxton to Northrepps. P T came to call and stayed an hour. Anna did not come down. Friday 15th January Mr Fish and Miss Shepheard came to lunch and see the greenhouse. Mr and Mrs M Pryor called to take leave as they leave Cromer on Monday. Saturday 16th January Letter from Mrs J Hoare to Anna about one of Sam’s cats. A very nasty foggy day. John ready to go to Kelling but did not go. Sunday 17th January A very wet morning. Priscilla and Ellen drove to Aylmerton – Ellen played at both churches. Anna not being well enough to go out all day. Monday 18th January Went to the farm in the morning 3 of the girls walked to the Beacon. John went to Kelling on the pony and lost his way coming home. Priscilla and Anna drove to Cromer and saw Emma Pigott in Bull’s shop who told them she was going out for a long time. Read to John all the evening; the election petition for bribery against Sir H Stracey. Tuesday 19th January Stracey unseated. Minnie and Bobbie rode towards Holt intending to lunch with the Rogers but met May and Miss Murray and Burcham coming to lunch with us and came back with them but just as Minnie reached home, Alfred Jodrell and Mr Gyll came; there was a bad lunch and five extra was very annoying. Priscilla walked about with them till four when they had tea in the schoolroom. Mr Spilling and Mr Bernard called but only stayed a few minutes. Wednesday 20th January A very sharp frost. Mr and Mrs Mills called in the afternoon. Mr Mills had received a letter from Mr Hutton in answer to one he had written asking for his stipend mentioning that he should deduct income tax and speaking of Aylmerton as ‘the land so dear to us’. Thursday 21st January John’s eye not so well. Spent the whole day in the library with him. Minnie and Bobbie rode to the yard to ask them to lunch and fishing on Saturday. Priscilla and Anna drove to Mrs Fishers to enquire for her and found her ill in bed.

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Friday 22nd January John rather better. Walked with him at 12 to Meerings and had just reached home when E Jodrell And Captain Sharpe came down upon us to lunch. John received them and took luncheon with them and after they left at 3 he fancied he had caught cold at luncheon and did not give me any rest all night in consequence. Saturday 23rd January At 11.30 Mr Cremer came to fish and brought his sister and A M Buxton, who lunched and went in the orange house. Mrs Mott and the two Miss Aldertons called. Mr Cremer caught 7 pike and they all had tea in the schoolroom and left at 5.30. John better but did not appear to any one but walked in the woods with his head tied up. Betts gave warning tonight. A very sharp black frost all day. Sunday 24th January A very bright day intensely cold. Went to Felbrigge church in the morning. Stayed with John in the afternoon. Monday 25th January The same bright intensely cold day. John went justicing and took Betts with him as one of his complaints was that he could not get out; they did not get home till four. Went with Anna and Margaret to lunch at Bayfield; Mrs Jodrell did not appear as this was the very week her husband was shot last year; rather dull and a pity they asked us to come till they were in better spirits but we had a very good view of the place. Tuesday 26th January Anna so ill as not to get off the sofa all day so resolved to send her up to see Cadge the next day. Just as we were all ready for dinner at 10 minutes past six Miss Cremer, Miss Norgate and A M Buxton called to ask them all to lunch at the Yard and meet the Colne House Buxtons; accepted it for as many as could get into the pony carriage. Wednesday 27th January Priscilla, Anna and Bobbie went to Norwich, the latter to return to school next morning. The 4 girls walked to Cromer and brought bought a bag of live shrimps with them. Went to the farm and while there Sir H, Lady and Miss Robinson called. Thursday 28th January Margaret, Ellen, Minnie went to lunch at Beeston; 20 there and they walked in the Cremer woods afterwards. Priscilla and Anna came back from Norwich having seen Cadge twice who ordered Anna amongst many other things to be in bed at 9 and get up at 10. The six directors of O G committed for trial. Friday 29th January Ellen went to practice at Aylmerton – pouring rain great part of the day – no one got further than the orange house – expecting A M Buxton all the afternoon to take leave, but no one came. Saturday 30th January A windy day, but mild. Priscilla and Anna drove to Cromer for the wages. Mr Fisher called and said his wife was ordered to the south coast as her lungs were affected. Anna very tired and in bad spirits. Sunday 31st January A very wet windy day – did not go to church. Ellen played twice; the stop of the Felbrigge harmonium broke.

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Monday 1st February A very windy mild morning which turned to heavy rain in the afternoon and prevented John meeting Mr Mott at Kelling as had been agreed. Tuesday 2nd February Very rainy – Priscilla and three of the girls drove to Cromer and could not get anything they wanted. After they came home P T called and stayed an hour. Wednesday 3rd February A very wet day – Meering came to say Mr and Mrs F Astley called to cross question him about the shooting yesterday. Some of them called on Miss Custance. Thursday 4th February George gave a months warning as he could not do the work etc, etc. Went with Anna to pay for the Xmas flour at Cretophs? Met Mr Upcher who asked if we were going far. John went to Kelling and told Betts after dinner he might leave on Wednesday. Friday 5th February A very fine mild day; Priscilla and three of the girls rode (drove) to Northrepps and heard the Dowager was gone to London for 3 months. They saw the Colne House girls who got out of the way. Mr and Mrs Spurgin called and saw the orange house. Saturday 6th February George asked for Farrar to clean the knives as Mr Betts was gone out to take his daily walk and the brewer was just come and also said he did not wish to go if Mr Betts left but he had been so ‘racketed’ about and had to do all the work which was rather trying as we had engaged W Meering to come on trial for the place. Anna was driven to the Beacon and the others walked – Anna rather better for Cadge’s treatment. Sunday 7th February Sacrament – went with Margaret and Ellen – very lame with pain in calf of the leg all last week and particularly bad today – John in despairing mind all day. Dreadful gale all night which prevented most of them sleeping. Monday 8th February Gale as before all day. John went justicing and there was nothing at all to do. Mr Upcher told him Marlborough Pryor died last Friday and that Winifred Hardcastle was engaged to Mr O’Malley. Tuesday 9th February Looked over plate with Betts who leaves tomorrow. After dinner John paid his wages when he said he much wished to stay. John agreed to it when all the servants rose in a body and said they would leave if Betts stopped so we gave him Col. Blomefields character and let him go as he gave warning himself and was not useful. Wednesday 10th February Went to Norwich with John and Minnie shopping all the afternoon. Bracondale in the evening. John came up in the evening. Business very bad and Junior in a bad temper. Mild weather bad for trade. Betts went before breakfast and W Meering came. Thursday 11th February Went with Minnie to Bridgman, paid Boulger and all the little bills. Called on Mrs Heaviside in the afternoon and spent the evening at Bracondale. The Beauchamps and Mr Bird at Felbrigge.

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Friday 12th February Pouring rain all day which turned to snow all the evening could not go out all day. Junior and Mr Rae went to London to consult a Master in Chancery about a disputed debt. John consulted Mr Walcon about the Aylmerton living. Saturday 13th February Went to lunch with Minnie at Canon Heavisides, saw Georgie and Mrs Douglas and Amy and Lady Hooker. Went into the town with Mrs Douglas who talked about Amy’s affairs all the way. Mrs H insisted on giving me a Valentine. Sunday 14th February Post at 9.30 - two paper Valentines for Anna, one box ‘registered’ which gave Margaret much uneasiness. Gale blowing all day; did not go out. Piece of paper found loose between pages with a poem on: ‘The rights of women’ what are they? The right to labour and to pray; The right to comfort in distress; The right whom others cause to bless; The right to love whom others scorn; The right to comfort all who mourn; Such ‘woman’s rights’! such God will bless; And grant support and give success. Monday 15th February Priscilla and Anna drove to Cromer for Gertie to take a lesson of Miss Colson – who was in a ‘low way’ and Mr Cooper attending her. Mr and Mrs Mills called in the afternoon and had tea and consulted about the new Hymn book for Aylmerton – they told us Miss Cremer was going to have a testimonial in the shape of a clock which was to be put in her drawing room by Mr Johnson’s servant. Tuesday 16th February A very fine cold day, went to the farm and found John had been giving the Pastons warning again. Mr Upcher, Gerald, Laura and M Pigott rode through the park and met with the girls as they came from Aylmerton. Wednesday 17th February Priscilla and Anna drove to Cromer, rain all the afternoon; worked in the orange house. Thursday 18th February Raining hard all the morning and part of the afternoon; Mr Nelson walked over and sat for one hour and ¾ in the orange house and told us his doctor had ordered him to take more exercise and not each so much. Friday 19th February Called on the Bosworth’s who were out. John went to Kelling. Mr Rogers and May came and left a cheque for £5 for the year’s shooting. The sales alone costing John £4 – Mr Upcher and Mr Spark drove through and stopped and Priscilla went to speak to him when he was very anxious to know who the Rogers were as they were in the orange house. Mr and Mrs and Miss Spark have been staying three days at Sheringham with the Abbot and Arthur Upchers.

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Saturday 20th February Letter to Margaret from Anna Mary requesting her to go to Beeston for some pictures for her scrap book. 4 of the girls drove out and Minnie rode. Mrs Dolphin and Miss Western called. A sharp frost and brilliant sky. John wrote to Mr Rogers resuming the shooting. Sunday 21st February Most bitterly cold; went to Felbrigge in the morning. John went to Aylmerton in the afternoon. There were some panes of glass out and he thought he had caught cold and was gloomy all the evening. Anna played at Aylmerton the first time since her illness. Monday 22nd February Had a clear understanding with George that he must go as soon as I could get a Butler. A very cold day; went with Anna and Minnie to the Beckham workhouse to give tea, sugar and tobacco to the aged inmates. Tuesday 23rd February Went to the farm and found Parsons ill again. Note of refusal from Nelson who was asked to fish with Mr Rogers. Priscilla, Margaret and Ellen went to the ‘yard’ and asked P T and his sister to lunch and fish. The former accepted it but Miss C was gone out. Wednesday 24th February A very thick fog, wind north east. Letter from Mr Rogers to say they could not come without the wind changed and that the Kelling shooting was of great importance to him and offering to keep the shooting and let Bobbie shoot there when he liked. Mr and Miss Cremer came; the former caught two pike and they did not leave till 6.15. Thursday 25th February A cold windy day; waited all the morning for the Rogers who did not come. Leonie’s sister wrote to ask me to take her as young ladies maid, but I found Caroline had no intention of leaving. Friday 26th February Priscilla, Anna and Margaret went to Norwich. Went with the others to Aylmerton church to the practising. Spent the afternoon in the kitchen garden. Saturday 27th February A very bright cold day. John went to Kelling. Letter from Bobbie to say the influenza had broken out in the school and it had turned to congestion of the lungs with two of the boys. Priscilla and the girls came home having lost all there time looking for a Butler but without finding one. Robert ill. Sunday 28th February Snow in the night which soon melted; storms all day. Went to Felbrigge in the afternoon. Wrote to ask Robert to come and stay with us Monday 1st March A very fine cold day. Went to the farm. Priscilla, Anna and Margaret took coffee at Beeston and saw the church and the Bosworth’s new house. Tuesday 2nd March Robert’s better and declined coming till Easter; letter from Mr Beauchamp who was coming to fish tomorrow. Martins told John Mr Upcher asked him at the board yesterday how much the shooting was let for and he told him he knew but would not tell – Mr Upcher then wanted to know if it was more than £200 and said that whoever hired it must have thought he was hiring the whole Windham estate. A very rainy day spent most of the afternoon in the orange house.

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Wednesday 3rd March Constant snow storms all day. Mrs and Mr Beauchamp came at 12.30. Spent the afternoon in the orange house. They left at 5.30. Thursday 4th March Snow and fog all the morning and a fine afternoon. Mr and Mrs Feilden came to ask if they might hold the autumn show here and what prize we would give; promised to write and let them know. They were very particular in their enquiries about our not inviting Mr Laurence so we told them the reason. Friday 5th March Very wet dull day; no one got out except to the practising. John sprained his ankle or rather a vein sore on the instep; he was drived out, but was in bad spirits. Ellen particularly dismal. Watson Meering in livery for the first time. Saturday 6th March Went to Cromer and round by Overstrand with Anna and Minnie. While out Mr Upcher and Laura called and George let them in and went to find Miss Blake who had not said she was going out and was obliged to tell them he could not find her; so they went away without seeing any one. Wrote to Mr Feilden that John consented to having the autumn show here. Mrs Gooch and Miss Smith drove though the park in the Buxton carriage. Sunday 7th March A very cold bright day went to Felbrigge in the morning. John did not go out all day and his ankle was bad; he was in bad spirits all day. Monday 8th March A very snowy morning – John not inclined to go justicing – although I wanted to go to the committee of the Cromer hospital – so we both stayed at home. Spent the afternoon, which turned to rain, in the orange house. The 4 children called on Miss Custance – Miss Lynes confided to Anna when she came to the clothing club that Earl had written to tell her she was engaged to George and therefore she (Miss Lynes) had given him up. Tuesday 9th March A touching letter from Cranmer to Vincent that he was starving and asking for help. She went to Cromer and sent him a P Order. Minnie rode to Holt for the Horticultural tickets; she met Mr Upcher who asked her to ride with them which she declined. Anna and Priscilla drove to Cromer. Wednesday 10th March Constant snow storms all day. John and I, Margaret and Ellen went to lunch with the Beauchamps; no one there, went to see the school and heard the children sing; very dull and desperately cold. Thursday 11th March Snow storms as before. Dined at six that all might go to hear Mr Wiseman who liked at the Aylmerton Bible meeting; a most dreadful night but a very good attendance. John, Anna and I stayed at home. Friday 12th March Priscilla, Anna and Margaret called on Mrs Mills to talk about a mother’s meeting in Aylmerton. Mr Mills delighted at the success of the Bible Meeting, the collection amounted to £1 18. 6 (one pound eighteen shillings and sixpence) more than the Sheringham collection and more than ever was collected in Aylmerton. A very snowy day.

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Saturday 13th March Constant snow storms; no one could go out except in to the orange house. Came in at 5 and found Mr Laurence who had called to enquire for John and Anna and to tell us E Anderson was rejected from the Post Office on the ground of his having had heart disease 10 years ago. Sunday 14th March Bitterly cold north east wind – went to Felbrigge in the afternoon. Monday 15th March John justicing at Cromer all the morning. A bye day with P T, a case they sent to the sessions at 3.45; went with John and Margaret to Norwich. Dined and John walked up to insect lodge after dinner about special business. Tuesday 16th March Went with Margaret to Thirlles? and then spent three hours at Boulgers; afterwards went with Margaret to Bracondale met Mrs Douglas and Amy and Mr Hansell who walked some way with us. Robert much better. John at the Quarter sessions all day; got home at 9.30 – too late to dine at the Maids Head. I K told junior the St Ann’s firm were going to separate. Wednesday 17th March Out shopping with Margaret all the morning; came home at 6.30. Mrs Upcher, Mrs Pigott and Mr Upcher and Edith called; Mr Upcher asked them to go to lunch with him tomorrow – sent grapes to the Canon. Thursday 18th March Sent a refusal to Sheringham. Went to the farm, came home found P T in the orange house who stayed one hour and ¾. Priscilla and two of the girls did Metton. Friday 19th March No water for use anywhere – dreadfully cold. After lunch it rained heavily and continued all night; no one able to go out – although they intended to have seen Mr Fish’s camellias. Saturday 20th March Pouring rain all day and night – wind north east; no one went out. Denny of Roughton dropped down dead in Norwich – Martin was with him and telegraphed to Mrs Martins to go to Mrs Denny and tell her of her loss. An inquest was held in Norwich at four o’clock. Letter from young John saying he had been to see GK who was very ‘uppish’ but confirmed most of his sisters intelligence. Sunday 21st March Weather as yesterday; did not go out, feeling rheumatic. White heifer calved last night. Monday 22nd March Wind as before; John went justicing – only one case and 4 magistrates. P T gone to Norwich with his sister who was going to Scotland. Priscilla and three of the girls went to call on Mr Fish and stayed 2 hours. Hail storm coming home. Tuesday 23rd March Weather as before. Went to the farm. Priscilla and two of the girls called at the Pigotts. The porch full of hens and the dove loose – no one answering the bell; they left the cards on the dove’s cage. Larry Banville died today.

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Wednesday 24th March Weather as before, if possible colder. Denney of Roughton buried at Felbrigge today. Bobbie came home in Margaret’s pony carriage tonight. Thursday 25th March Tombland Fair. John not there as the sprain in his foot was troublesome. Servants all wanting a whole holiday tomorrow – told them to do their work as usual and go to church in the afternoon as there was no church in the morning Friday 26th March Good Friday. Six year’s today we have lived here and as Minnie remarked ‘Every year has added proof’ etc; read the death of Lady Harvey in today’s paper aged 72. The house I so much wished to live in but no use now. Wrote to Ellen – went with John to Felbrigge church in the afternoon; the rest went to Aylmerton. Snow and hail at night. Saturday 27th March Ground covered with snow – snow storms all day – they made a snow Lady in the afternoon six feet high – it snowed all night. We could not even send to Cromer for the wages. Sunday 28th March Easter Sunday. Snow deep – obliged to send a note of excuse to Mr Mills. They were all driven to Felbrigge church in the afternoon. Ellen in crying fits all day. John with a bad head cold. Monday 29th March John ill with influenza and much frightened. Priscilla, Margaret and Ellen went to Norwich to consult Cadge about the latter. Wind north east, snow nearly melted – did not go out all day as John required so much attention; he spent the day in the library. Tuesday 30th March A French telegram sent in Miss Wilson and Rose’s letter ‘Monsieur Kitton est Mort’. Could not understand what it meant. Mrs J R Staff’s death in The Times aged 72 - letter from Mr Beauchamp. John in the library all day and very cross; a most uncomfortable day. The children walked to the Beacon. Colder than ever. Wednesday 31st March From Priscilla’s letter found it was Mr J Kitton of Bracondale who was dead at Marseilles – having been on the Nile expedition – also that John had the ‘rheumatism’ and could not walk. Mr Mills called and told us of the Aylmerton vestry meeting – also that Lady Buxton called on him to bring Mr Bernard and was so disagreeable that ‘my wife’ trembled for 20 minutes after she was gone and that Baby Bosworth died last Sunday being choked while its parents were at church – ‘happy child’. Thursday 1st April Minnie and Bobbie rode and met the ‘squire’ with Mr Upcher and Laura – the latter asked them to go to the workhouse with him but she declined. P T called and came into the orange house; after he left went with Anna and Gertie to the village. Priscilla and the girls came home. Friday 2nd April The North Walsham Steeple Chase – none of our party went. Mr Upcher and Hammy called to ask Bobbie to go to Hempstead with them and bring a postage stamp which should have been a Maltese but turned out to be a 6 English. Anna drove two of her sisters to Cromer in the new pony carriage. Mr Fitch, Miss Colson and Gertrude Fitch called with a sister in law and niece from the north.

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Saturday 3rd April Gave the laundress warning; had an interview with Rudd about the way the eggs were stolen. Went to call with Anna on Mrs Mills who was out. Bobbie went to Hempstead with the Upchers and lunched on the grass. Sunday 4th April Sacrament – all went to Felbrigge – a dry but very cold day. Monday 5th April Went to the farm – a cow ill. Parsons not so well. Called at Barningham with Anna, no one at home – very cold. Tuesday 6th April Before 10 o’clock Mr Fish called and was shown to our great consternation into the school room. He came to look for some peat and to ask us to lunch on Thursday, which I accepted, though rather reluctantly. It rained all the afternoon and we could not get out. Which was quite as well as the Colne House gardener came to see the orange house and was treated by Cable to porter in the orange house. Wednesday 7th April Went to the farm in the rain – cow better but Parsons not so well and gone to North Walsham. Rain all the afternoon; paid wages to all the servants. Thursday 8th April Went with Bobbie and 3 of the girls to lunch with Mr Fish. We all enjoyed it very much although the day was like November; thick fog and very cold. Letter from Asker the lawyer about the effects of CK who died in New Zealand. Nose bled three times. Friday 9th April John’s letter enclosed a very distressing one from I K, which John could not act upon until he was personally appealed to. John went to Holt to see Mr Wilkinson about the registration of the parish. Went with Priscilla and Margaret to Metton where they gave the school children some books. Heard the Andersons were coming home next week. Saturday 10th April The first fine day, wind south. Margaret drove to Cromer. We all sat under the cedar tree in the afternoon. John very busy looking over the water pipes and tanks with a view to doing without Wadeham and the horses. Sunday 11th April Nose bleed for ½ an hour – could not go down to prayers. Very warm day. Deed of gift came to be signed – John in bad spirits all day. Margaret turned faint at Aylmerton and had to come out, as did Mrs Mills. Monday 12th April A very hot day. Called on the Upchers and saw Mrs Upcher also on Mrs Moore who was at home and Mrs Pigott. While out Mr Upcher and Jimy? called and saw Priscilla and Anna and he again asked us to lunch. Tuesday 13th April A very hot day. Mrs Buxton, Emmie and E Pigott came and while they were here P T came to ask if he might bring ‘Sid Herring to fish on Thursday. We had tea under the cedar. John went to Kelling.

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Wednesday 14th April Went with Ellen and Margaret to lunch at Sheringham; only Mrs Buxton and Emmie there. Mr Upcher and the girls went on to the beach at lower Sheringham while I had to sit in the drawing room till nearly 4; very glad to get home. Minnie rode to Holt to lunch and May and Bureham Rogers rode back with her. George went to Norwich for his livery. Thursday 15th April The first asparagus. Mr Cremer, his brother and Mr Herring came to fish. They caught 5 pike. P T came up early and sat in the orange house – G wrote to say he could not get home till Friday. Friday 16th April Paid the deaf laundress her wages as she leaves tomorrow. Sent a pike to Mrs Mills. Old Bartrum very ill. Massingham the groom ill and not at work. Raining all the afternoon; no one could get out. G came back at night. Saturday 17th April E Fitzgerald left this morning. Fog and rain all day; wind north east; no one able to go out. John wet through coming from Meerings. We all worked hard and read aloud. Sunday 18th April North east wind. Went to Felbrigge. Edward Anderson at church with Mr Laurence. All went to Aylmerton. Monday19th April A very cold day; Priscilla, Anna and Minnie went to 5 o’clock tea at the Pigotts and walked in the woods after with Mr and Mrs Upcher and saw ‘Marindale’. Mrs Crotch came. Tuesday 20th April Went to Norwich with John, Margaret and Ellen. Paid Caley and went to Bracondale. Sheward hanged and Miss Grimmer married. Wednesday 21st April Nearly muddled to death – twice to Bridgeman’s and once to Cadge’s – saw a great many people I knew; came home at 7.30. Thursday 22nd April Gertie went to Miss Colson’s; as soon as lunch was over Mr Upcher called to bid us goodbye as he was going to Scotland next week. Mr and Mrs Anderson called and directly after they came ‘PT’ called and stayed till 5.30. Friday 23rd April The new laundress spoke to Priscilla about prayers; she did not think reading the scriptures right for the servants. Lady Buxton, Eva and G Buxton’s children came and afterwards Louis, Anna and M Pigott. A very rainy evening and all night. Saturday 24th April Found the linen not half done; spoke to Mrs C about it. She did not do it all day, but continued lecturing the servants and reducing Mrs Laurence to tears. Called with Anna on Mr Bosworth who was out. John went to Metton and had it out with ‘James’. Sunday 25th April Went to Aylmerton in the morning. Mrs Crotch very troublesome. John did not go to church all day – 2 guinea pigs born.

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Monday 26th April Constant disturbances between Mrs Crotch and all the servants. Anna and Ellen went to Cromer and saw Mr Upcher who goes to Scotland tomorrow. Tuesday 27th April A very bright cold day. John rode to Kelling. Went to the farm, heard a great many complaints from Mrs Parsons about her health. Mrs Crotch again troublesome and I was obliged to exert myself very much. Wednesday 28th April Mr and Mrs Mills came to lunch. Mrs Bosworth, Miss Cox called at 5.30. PT came and stayed till 6.15. The Canon wrote a confidential letter about the living of Northrepps. Thursday 29th April Went with Anna to call on the Andersons; met Mrs A at the Lodge who told us it was Tithe Audit. Went to Colne House, saw Lady Buxton who gave us a pot of aloes. Two of the girls went to see Miss Custance. Friday 30th April Further disturbances with Mrs Crotch who told me she was my right hand. A most bitterly cold day. Went to the farm, the others drove to Cromer. Saturday 1st May The same weather. Expecting Mr Beauchamp to lunch, who did not come; no one went out except to the orange house. Told Mrs Crotch she must go on Wednesday when she said I should be sorry for it after. Sunday 2nd May Great commotion about an invitation from Mrs Buxton for Margaret to stay with them while her sisters were at Paris – which we accepted. Went to Felbrigge in the morning; text ‘oh that I had wings like a dove’. Monday 3rd May Rain all day. John went justicing and did not return till three. PT on the bench, who went home and came in the pouring rain and stayed till six. Tuesday 4th May Everybody driven about preparing and packing up and at last sent the luggage off to Gray. Paid Mrs Crotch her wages who was most unwilling to go. Owing to George’s carelessness John had to leave the dinner table and go to Cromer to commit a man. Wednesday 5th May Mrs Crotch was got out of the house with much difficulty. John went to Norwich with Priscilla and the eldest girls – spent the day in seeing the servants clean the house – very tired. Thursday 6th May Billiard room cleaning; pouring rain all the, Ascension day but did not go to Felbrigge. The party went from Norwich to Boulogne and Margaret and her maid to Daresbury.. John came home at six. Friday 7th May Letter from Mr Soanes to say he met them at the station and Mrs Soanes took Margaret to the

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Royal Academy for an hour. Went with the girls to the practising; very tired all day with having so many people to look after. Saturday 8th May Letter from Margaret telling us she missed the train and stayed with the Soanes – torrents of rain all day. Cleaning going on; helped to clear the drawing room for the sweeps on Monday. Very dull. Sunday 9th May Went to Aylmerton in the morning. Minnie played the first attempt and was highly complimented by Mr Mills – felt very ill all the morning – did not go in the afternoon. John’s ankle bad again. Monday 10th May Letters from Paris and Daresbury – which we answered. Very heavy storms all day and a thunderstorm at three. No one able to get out except in the orange house. Felt very ill all day. Drawing room cleaning and sweeps both there and in Anna’s room. Tuesday 11th May Note from Mrs Soanes inviting Margaret to stay with her – long letter from Mr Auger which we copied, which we copied and sent to Paris. Chancery proceedings threatened by J C Taylor. John did not sleep. Spencer and Symonds shot the rooks. Wednesday 12th May My room cleaning and the schoolroom. Letter writing all the morning. Cable complained that George and Walton threw stones out of slings at the rooks and had injured the garden engine – Robins also complained that Miss Blake had killed all the melons ‘messing’ after them. Thursday 13th May Letter from Margaret asking for orange blossoms to be sent to Daresbury – which we did – went with Minnie and Gertie to Mr Fish’s to return a book. Some visitors there they did not let us see which of course shortened our visit. Lost the key of the post bag going. North East wind there. Friday 14th May Very tired and busy. Went to preaching at Aylmerton; so cold that I spent the afternoon in the orange house. Finished all the cleaning of the bedrooms in use – no letters. Girls getting very tired of the dullness. Saturday 15th May Lambert and Martha went for their holiday – cold more intense than ever – very busy. Wrote to C? and Margaret – did all Caroline’s usual work etc. Spent the afternoon in the orange house, Minnie rode. Sunday 16th May Whitsunday Sacrament which I had to take alone. Capper was next me – John angry as I did not get home till 1.30. Mrs Anderson and Edward kept us waiting a quarter of an hour. Minnie and Gertie went to Aylmerton alone as John had the toothache and I was too tired. Mills told them Hutton is not coming. Monday 17th May Moved in to the dining room and began to clean the breakfast room. John went justicing and had the toothache all night. Spent the afternoon in the orange house. Mrs Fisher called but did not see any one. Raining all day. Tuesday 18th May Library and breakfast room chimneys and pantry chimney swept, the last of the series.

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Worked hard all day at Anna’s valance. Heavy storms in the morning and thunder storms all the afternoon. John nearly mad with toothache all day and night. Wednesday 19th May Minnie and Gertie went to meetings to arrange about the dogs board and came home wet through. Pouring rain all day. Mr Beauchamps two servants came and brought 2 hens and some cuttings. Could not get out. John mad with toothache. Thursday 30th May Minnie and Gertie drove to Cromer – spent the afternoon in the gardens. Breakfast room finished today gave John a blue pill and he got better. Very cold all day. Cable gone to a wedding. Friday 21st May Cable did not come to work and no one told us till 11. Went to the practising with Minnie. Wrote to Paris for the last time as Anna did not wish to stay any longer. Wrote to ask Mr Soanes to engage rooms at the Charing Cross Hotel for three or 4 nights. Saturday 22nd May Vincent went out for a week leaving us to Mrs Stony and the kitchen maid. Minnie and Gertie went to Cromer for the wages. Mrs Cable asked to be allowed to buy ½ a pint of milk as Mrs Hall had sold her cow. Had a pound of tobacco burnt in the orange house and spent the afternoon looking to the weeding. Appeal to the benevolent abused. J S in the paper – put in by the Gayfords. Sunday 23rd May Sacrament at Aylmerton – could not go – Mills came out to tell Minnie that Mr ‘Peek’ and his family were there and asked if Miss Hall might sit in our seat. Minnie and Gertie went to Felbrigge in the [blank] John’s tooth still continued aching. Monday 24th May John went to Norwich at 8.30 to have his tooth out and returned at 7. Very cold; 3 hours rain which prevented any driving. Had the orange house syringed and another pound of tobacco burnt in it. The Almond tumbler drowned itself in the cistern. The Queen’s birthday, but John managed to get his tooth taken out and Sam got the grocery although the shops were all shut. Tuesday 25th May Letter from Margaret who leaves Daresbury today. Minnie rode to Sheringham to ask Mr Upcher if he would be on the bench on Monday as there were several poaching cases – Mr Upcher not expected home till Saturday – she also saw Lady Buxton with Mrs Mills and her sisters who asked if Minnie had seen her carriage – spent 3 hours and a half looking after the gardeners. Wednesday 26th May Two letters from Charing Cross. Rain so very heavy that we could not go out. Minnie and Gertie went to tea at the Andersons. The large corridor being whitened today. Dreadfully cold. Thursday 27th May Weather as before – walked in the kitchen garden two hours got wet through. Orange house cleaning. Bundled cow calved. Friday 28th May Minnie and Gertie went to enquire for Mrs Mills who was confined yesterday and the baby dead. Met them at the practising- found a note in the orange house that Cable was too ill to work. Mr Arthur Upcher and Mary called and told us Mr Gurney Hoare had lent his house to them for a fortnight. Vincent came home.

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Saturday 29th May The large corridor finished. Went with Gertie to call at Northrepps – all out and then to Mrs Arthur Upcher who was at home lying on a sofer covered with an eiderdown quilt. On my return George sent to know if he might go to Cromer – gave him leave stipulating that he should be home at 9 – he did not return till 10.30 and when he came into the library he said if he did not suit he would leave on Monday. Sunday 30th May Went to Felbrigge church in the morning. Mr Bosworth at Aylmerton in the afternoon. Mrs Mills going on very well. Monday 31st May Looked over the plate with George. John went justicing and did not get home till 5.15 there being so many egg stealing cases. Mary Upcher came to lunch and they drove her back after 5 o’clock. The Dowager Lady Buxton and Pris Johnston called. Went to the farm with John. Paid George his wages – Cable on his club. E Cubitt came. Tuesday 1st June John went to Norwich at 8. George went to the coach just before, having taken Lion and Hall to drive him with out leave. Miss Lynes came very early to bid him adieu. The Paris party returned bringing a young grey parrot with them and looking thinner than when they went. Wednesday (RAK wrote Thursday for today) 2nd June All very busy unpacking. Began to have the best gallery which was falling down repaired. Glazier finished. Sent to ask for Mrs Mills who was going on very well. Thursday 3rd June Still busy getting things into their places and general rampage amongst the gardeners. Went to the farm. Minnie rode through Gunton – Anna and Gertie called on Mrs Fisher who was out. Friday 4th June Gertie’s birthday. They all went to pracising and saw Mr Mills. Minnie rode. Mary and E Anderson called and had tea under the tree. Mr Day left a card. Saturday 5th June Rather mild. The first goose of the season - very nasty – for dinner. Anna and Ellen went to call on Mrs A Upcher who was then going out. Mr Mills and the Misses Hall came to 5 o’clock tea. Caroline came back. Sunday 6th June (RAK put 5th June) Aylmerton in the morning. Went to Felbrigge in the afternoon – trying sermon about J? ‘daughter’ from Piggy. Servants went out in the evening for the first time. Monday 7th June (RAK put 6th June) A most astonishingly hot day, ill with hay asthma. Minnie rode and came home with a bad headache and took to her bed. Sat under the cedar in the afternoon. Tuesday 8th June Sunshine and north wind, very cold. Anna and Gertie drove to Sheringham to take some parcels to Mrs Pigott. Minnie ill in bed all day but took a lemon and came down to tea. Wednesday 9th June Letter from Margaret requesting a few weeks longer at Upminster. Cold as ever. Anna rode.

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Mr and Mrs Moore, Lucy Moore and Allan came. Everybody ill with head colds. John in a desponding state about himself. Thursday 10th June H Upcher’s wedding day. Very cold, did not go out all day. Anna and Ellen went to tea at Northrepps; no one there and heard all about the preparations for I Johnston’s wedding. Friday 11th June Most bitterly cold with dust and sun. Went in the brougham to call on the Beauchamps and had 5 o’clock tea with them. Mr Mills and the younger Miss Hall called to take leave when I was out. Saturday 12th June Rather warmer. Gertie and I went to the farm and were overtaken on our return by Mr Upcher, Russell, Laura and E? Pigott who came to recount the glories of Henri’s wedding day. They stayed some time in the orange house. Anna and Ellen drove to Cromer but came home in time to see them. Sunday 13th June Went to Felbrigge church in the morning; rain before we came out. Caught cold on my lungs. Anna went with two of her sisters to Aylmerton and remained very gloomy all the evening. Monday 14th June John went justicing in the pouring rain and did not get home till 5, having been with Mr Upcher to investigate the Misses Soame’s servants case at Forder’s house. Most bitterly cold today Tuesday 15th June A very cold rainy day. Anna and Ellen drove to Baconsthorpe and while they were gone the squire called in his carriage and pair and brought Vernon to see his aunt who did not seem to appreciate the attention. Wednesday 16th June Went with Minnie to Norwich and John; it rained all the afternoon. Minnie of course with a headache spent the evening at Bracondale. Robert ill. Thursday 17th June Went to Bridgeman’s and afterwards to Bingham’s with Minnie to fit a habit. It rained so hard all day that our dresses were wet through and all the way, found the Beauchamps when we got home. Friday 18th June Priscilla and Anna called on the Anderson’s. Etheridge’s man came and took the hall clock to clean. Three gentlemen called and asked to see the library and John allowed it and received them there but they only stayed 5 minutes. Saturday 19th June Cold but dry. Anna rode and met Mr and Mrs Upcher going to call on the Andersons and agreed reluctantly to ride with Mr Upcher on Monday; the others drove through Gunton. Mr and Mrs Gay, Dora and her French governess called and had 5 o’clock tea in the orange house. Sunday 20th June Very cold, fine all the afternoon and evening; large camp meeting at Felbrigge – did not go to church as I felt rheumatic – only 5 people at Felbrigge church in the afternoon.

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Monday 21st June Aldborough Fair – Anna rode with Mr Upcher round by Beckham; very heavy rain all the morning. Tuesday 22nd June Went with Anna to call at the yard – met the Pigotts and Mrs Upcher going to Mrs MacArthur’s working party. Saw Bella and the newly furnished drawing room. Called on Mrs Mills and saw her. Saw Mr Upcher as we went home. Mr Wheeler wrote to say he had taken Bobbie to Eton. Wednesday 23rd June Anna rode to Holt and found them all out. Mr Rogers and May still in London. Mrs Mortimer brought her nephew Sidney Bevan and a Mrs Jenner to call. The nephew appeared mad on the subject of music and sang 2 songs and played a duet with Ellen; they had 5 o’clock and saw the orange house. Thursday24th June Went for a drive in the pony carriage round by Overstrand. Edward, Helen and Mary Anderson came to high tea and billiards and cards in the evening. Friday 25th June Circular on the breakfast table from Mrs Mills with thanks for kind enquiries. A very fine day; Anna and Aunt drove to Cromer. James Bunting a new Butler came at night. Saturday 26th June Bunting very troublesome in the matter of plate, brushes, leathers, sponges etc, which have most of them disappeared; sent to Cromer for some more. No one called. Toothache all day. Sunday 27th June Dreadful toothache all day and night. Capper at Felbrigge in the morning. Mrs Mills ‘churched’ in the afternoon Monday 28th June Looked over the plate with Bunting – toothache distracting. John looking over the men himself, having had a quarrel with Smith. Went to bed all the afternoon. Did not sleep for the 4th night. Puffy died. Tuesday 29th June Rent Audit; spent the whole day upstairs. Mr Upcher called to ask Anna to ride with him which she declined as Minnie was going to ride at 4. A circular from Colne House that there would be no working party that day, which did not concern us in the least as no one intended to go. May and Rose Rogers rode down to 5 o’clock tea. Wednesday 30th June Priscilla and Anna drove to Baconsthorpe after breakfast to see Mr Feilden that John would not be able to give away the prizes tomorrow and asked Mr Feilden to do it for him, which he said was impossible as it would make the ‘brethren’ so jealous and said that Anna aught to do it for her father – which she said nothing should induce her to do, but when she came home we all saw there was nothing else to be done and she wrote an acceptance of the plan. Thursday 1st July Baconsthorpe Horticultural. Wind north with frequent storms of drizzle. Priscilla and the four girls went. Anna gave away the prizes. The great man made things as unpleasant for her as he could but as she rather expected it she was not taken unawares. Half of the nuisance of being president got over today.

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Friday 2nd July Cold drizzle all day. No one called. Toothache rather better. Saturday 3rd July Very cold; John went to Kelling. Mr Mott called to enquire for us. Toothache better but felt very queer and bilious. Sunday 4th July A fine day; letter from Margaret saying she was not coming to Norwich till Monday. Felbrigge in the afternoon; Mr Fisher preached for the IPG. At Aylmerton in the morning;l Mr Mills preached a very objectionable sermon on David and Bathsheba. Did not go at all but toothache better. No fire tonight, the first time this year. Monday 5th July Three of the girls went to bathe but found the water very cold. All the afternoon and evening a succession of heavy thunder storms; did not go out. Tuesday 6th July John sent a telegram that he received last night from Mr Soanes that Margaret was not coming as she promised that day. The Holt Horticultural show; Priscilla, Anna and Minnie went. PT was there and they settled matters all but reference to ‘Pater’. The company generally congratulating and looking on. The great man congratulating Anna and asked pardon for his behaviour at Baconsthorpe. We took two second prizes for cherries and pelargoniums. Wednesday 7th July Letter from Margaret that she was not coming till today to Norwich. Letter at 5 o’clock from PT to John; Do [ditto] to Anna from him and his brother and sister dined with the Dolphin’s and had a pleasant evening. Thursday 8th July (different handwriting) Day very fine. Mr Pellew, Georgie and Mary Anderson walked over to our great surprise and had 5 o’clock tea. The Pellews staying at Metton for a fortnight. Old lady Buxton called but did not see her as I was driving with John. Friday 9th July Went to Norwich to bring Margaret home. Saturday 10th July Day fine; the girls went to Cromer and brought Georgie Pellew back to tea. Letter from PT wanting to see John in the evening. Brought Margaret back from Norwich. Robert came to stay a week with us. Sunday 11th July Percy Fiz at Felbrigge Church. Scolded Margaret well. Very tired, did not go to Aylmerton church. Mr Cremer came to see John and settled matters with him. Glad it is settled. Felt very triumphant. Scolded Ellen and Minnie for objecting to it. Blew up Prissie who did not take it in a right spirit!!! Monday 12th July Went to tea at Metton with 3 of the girls. Percy Fiz called. Was not too civil to him. Don’t want detrimentals? after my daughters. Such a mother as I’ve been to them and such a beginning as Anna has made!! The Rogers came to 5 o’clock tea. Anna went for a ride with Cremer.

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Tuesday 13th July The Pellews and Mary A to luncheon. Felt rather ill. Bella and Vernon and Mary Wilson called. Vernon screamed the whole time. Wednesday 14th July John, Anna, Ellen and I went to a croquet party at Wickmere. Very slow, felt very tired and bored and hungry and expressed myself quite as I felt. Was congratulated by everyone, the only pleasant part of the entertainment!! Thursday 15th July Felt very ill. Kept in bed all day. Friday 16th July We had a croquet party. Rogers, Beauchamps, Andersons, Pellews and Cremers, Lady Buxton called. Did not see her as I did not get up till 5 and had some tea under the Cedar. Felt very ill after it. Sat in the Cabinet and told Mrs Anderson a ‘few things’. Went to bed again at 6. Saturday 17th July Lady Buxton and Rosalind called. Did not see them. Cremer came to supper. Sunday 18th July Stopped in bed all day Monday 19th July Cremer came to supper, did not see him. Felt ill. Tuesday 20th July 4 of the girls went to tea on the lawn at Northrepps. Wednesday 21st July Kept in bed all day. Anderson, Mills and Fisher and the Dolphins came to luncheon. Cremer came today. Thursday 22nd July The Motts had a picnic on the Lighthouse Hills. Prissie, three of the girls and Cremer went. Friday 23rd July Felt better and came down in the afternoon. The girls went to the Metton school treat. Saturday 24th July Felt much better. The girls went to call on Miss Custance. Sunday 25th July Felbrigg in the morning. Did not go. Hard rain in the afternoon. Monday 26th July Bella, Mary Wilson and Minnie Norgate came to luncheon. Tuesday 27th July Hard rain all day; did not go out. Wednesday 28th July Prissie and Margaret dined at Metton; met the Wilsons.

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Thursday 29th July Went to tea at Beeston. Told Mrs Bosworth my views on things in general. Bobbie came home. Friday 30th July Day fine; Prissie and the girls went to call on Mrs Mortimer. Saturday 31st July Mrs Mott and Gertrude came to tea. They were going to Scotland for a month. Sunday 1st August Aylmerton church in the morning; did not go to Felbrigge. Monday 2nd August Went to tea at Beeston; Norgates, Mrs Mortimer, the Rogers etc, etc there. Miss Bevan sang and some other people played. Was much amused at the whole thing. Tuesday 3rd August Rain all the afternoon; did not go out. Wednesday 4th August Rained all day; went nowhere. Thursday 5th August The girls drove to Cromer, no-one called. Friday 6th August A croquet party at Holt; Prissie, Anna, Minnie and Bobbie and Cremer went; a dance afterwards. Saturday 7th August Mr and Mrs and the Miss Fowlers called. Stayed at home all day. Sunday 8th August Felbrigge in the afternoon. Did not go. Monday 9th August Mrs Fish and Miss Shepherd came to lunch. It rained hard all day. Tuesday 10th August A picnic at the water. Rain so hard we were obliged to have lunch in the orange house. 53 people came. Should have had more but the weather stopped them. Wednesday 11th August A very cold day; Prissie and the girls went to ‘Me Wife’s’ School Treat. Did not go out. Thursday 12th August Rainy nasty day. Lady Buxton and Isabella called. Friday 13th August Mrs Beauchamp and Mr and Miss Beauchamp came to 5 o’clock tea. Did not see them as I had to take Bobbie to Aylsham to be measured. Scolded Todd for making his things badly. Saturday 14th August Hard rain all day. Mr Fish and Miss S. came to 5 o’clock tea and brought the parrot a new cage.

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Sunday 15th August Felbrigg in the morning. Mr Wilson lunched with us. Monday 16th August Day cold; did not go out. Tuesday 17th August Mr Cremer called; went into the garden. Wednesday 18th August Mr Fisher called. The girls went to see Miss Custance. Thursday 19th August Mr and Mrs Wilson called. Prissie, Margaret, Minnie and Bobbie went to play croquet at Wickmere. Friday 20th August A lot of clan and Upchers called. Went to Norwich with John, Anna and Margaret. Saturday 20th August Aunt ‘Cat’, the Beauchamps and Andersons came to 5 o’clock tea. Day fine; Anna and Margaret came back [from] Norwich with Mr Cremer. Sunday 22nd August Felbrigge in the morning; Mr Griffiths preached. Monday 23rd August Mr and Mrs Feilden and the children came to 5 o’clock tea and to arrange about the show. Tuesday 24th August Lambert and Wilson left. Tea on the lawn at Northrepps; very slow. Wednesday 25th August Prissie and Anna called at Sheringham; no-one at home. Mrs Upcher better. Thursday 26th August Prissie and the girls went to Mr Fish’s to see the sewing machine and to play bowls; were not home till 8.30. Friday 27th August Prissie and Margaret went to dinner at the Dolphin’s; a very pleasant party. Saturday 28th August Mr and Mrs I Hoare and Mr ‘Cove’; called. Came back from Norwich. Jane Varvill, Emma Everitt came. Sunday 29th August Felbrigge in the afternoon; was going but thought it would rain. Monday 30th August Caroline gave warning. Made some calls; went to Northrepps, found the old lady at home. Said it was pleasant to have seen me. Saw old Mrs Birkbeck; was not much impressed by her manners and appearance. Called on the Wollaston Blakes. Began late dinners.

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Tuesday 31st August Major Ind and ‘Bits’ called. Another detrimental for Margaret!! Conrad got loose, could not catch it. Wednesday 1st September Beginning of the hateful shooting, but thank goodness it doesn’t signify this year! Cremer and Bobbie went to Beeston to shoot and Anna and Prissie went to have lunch with them. Mr and Mrs Barclay and Ada called. The ‘Brethren’ came to tea and Piggy – Conrad was caught. Maria Frost came home. Thursday 2nd September Cremer and Bobbie went shooting. Day very cold. No-one called. Friday 3rd September Day showery; the Blakes and Cat called. Arabella and Vernon and Mrs Shipper came to tea. Saturday 4th September Anna had a wedding present from the I Hoares. Did not think much of it. Sent off Isabella Johnston’s present. No one called. Sunday 5th September Felbrigge in the Morning Piggy preached a good sermon for a wonder. Prissie and some of the girls and Cremer went to hear Blackwood in the Coachhouse. Monday 6th September Heavy rain; went to tea at Mrs Mortimers; was much amused. Tuesday 7th September Prissie and the girls went to see Isabelle Johnston married. Bobbie went back to school. Went to Northrepps in the afternoon. Heard an address from Mr Blackwood and had tea and wedding cake. Gratifying. Wednesday 8th September Went to London with Anna and Cremer. Got there quite safe. The girls went to Cromer. Reached the Charing X at 9.40. Cremer went to the ‘Tavistock’. Thursday 9th September (different handwriting) 2 thunder storms in the night. The Coffee room at the Charing X crowded at breakfast. Cremer came and presented Anna with a bouquet from Covent Garden. Shopping from 10 till 5. C came after dinner with another bouquet and wanted us to go and see ‘Formosa’ – refused, so he went alone. Friday 10th September C came and was glad we did not see ‘Formosa’ as he was disgusted with it; persuaded him to go to Cambridge as he was no use in London. With Anna at 10.30 to try on her wedding dress and continued shopping till 6.30. When all was completed much to our delight - dinner and packed up Fire in the Strand near us. Saturday 11th September Left the Charing X at 9.30. Came down with Mr Beauchamp who had sent his wife to Malvern to see Miss Pearson. Picked up Cremer at Cambridge – carriage waiting at the station – brought Mr Beauchamp to Aylsham. Reached home at seven; Cremer went home at 10.30.

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Sunday 12th September Pouring rainy day; did not go out having caught a bad cold in London – very tired. Cremer did not come but sent a note and a testimonial from Miss Day. Monday 13th September Mr Fielden called to see if the tent had arrived; very stormy. Cremer got wet through shooting. Sent a note six brace of birds and a plover. Tuesday 14th September Mr and Mrs Feilden and Mr Beauchamp came to help to decorate the tent a great many of the ‘brethren’ came too and had 5 o’clock tea in the school room. Mr and Mrs Feilden and Mr Beauchamp stayed with us; Mrs Feilden sang all the evening the rest played cards. Wednesday 15th September The Baconsthorpe Show held in our park. Breakfast at 8.15 – lunch at one with the Dolphin’s; the rest of the committee lunched afterwards. A very large attendance; about 200 in to tea. Weather not so bad though the high wind was trying. Supper and singing in the evening from Mrs Fielden. Lady F Keir and 3 of her daughters at the show. Mrs Dalton died. Thursday 16th September The Feildens departed directly after breakfast. Mr Cremer went to Beeston and coming back was thrown off Vivian who his knees [sic] – Cremer much bruised and rode with Anna to see Cooper who said he had broken one of his ribs. Friday 17th September Sent for Cooper in the morning who said the rib was not broken and ordered a hot bath. C drove Anna to Cromer and Beeston. Miss Cremer and Vernon came to luncheon. Went with Priscilla to call at Metton and propose to ‘James’ that they Minnie and Gertie should be prepared for Confirmation in the same way as their sisters. He took time to consider of it. Mrs Mason came. Saturday 18th September Very tired, spent the morning with Mrs Mason and the afternoon in my own room. Cremer drove Anna to call on Mrs Herring and to Buxton. Brought home ‘ My Brothers’s testimonial’. Sunday 19th September Cremer went with me, Margaret and Minnie to hear ‘Piggy’ and liked him very much. Spurgin at Aylmerton in the afternoon for the IPG. Very bad sermon. Monday 20th September John and Cremer went justicing. Went with 3 of the girls to lunch at Wickmere; only Mr Beauchamp at home. Went mushrooming in the afternoon. Mr Groucock drove through the park. Anna Buxton brought Lady Sidney Montague and went over the house when all of us were out. Mr Mickle Hare came to Northrepps. Tuesday 21st September Anna went to Cromer to see a cook. Went with Margaret to Erpingham Rectory to call on the Meyricks who were at home. Mr Cremer went home and found Mrs Blackwood and the duchess and their children fishing – kitchen maid gave warning. Groucock again through the park. Wednesday 22nd September Engaged the Beeston Kitchen maid – Priscilla and Anna went to lunch with Cremer in the Cromer Hall woods.

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Thursday 23rd September Went at 10am with Priscilla, Anna, Margaret and Cremer to Baconsthorpe church – full choral service and a very large congregation – sacrament – and lunch in a tent at 2. got home at 4 very tired. Feilden, Mott, Hopper and the architect returned thanks and made speeches. £48 collected in the morning. Friday 24th September John, Priscilla and Anna went to Norwich. Cremer went home as the Jones were coming to stay till Monday. Sent Bunting out and had high tea. Mrs Upcher and Mrs H Upcher called and E Anderson to take leave before going to India. Saw none of them as I felt very ill from the fatigue of yesterday. Sent for Caroline to pay her wages but she said she had another week to stay – allowed her to stay though she was wrong. Invited the Heavisides to the wedding. Saturday 25th September Mr Cremer sent 10 brace of birds and 2 hares and two more ‘testimonials’ he had received. Mr F Micklethaite left his card., Anna brought home two testimonials from Robert and Ellen. Felt very ill all day. Asked the Beauchamps. Sunday 26th September Letter from Mrs Heaviside declining to come to the wedding as the Canon was in residence. Sacrament at Aylmerton and Harvest sermon at Felbrigge for the benefit of the Hospital. Cremer came unexpectedly in the afternoon but was obliged to return to dinner as the Jones were staying there. Mr Wollaston Blake was at Felbrigge church and came to tea and they walked to the lodges with him. Monday 27th September Anna went to Cromer and engaged a cook and Cremer came after lunch and rode with her to see Mrs Jones – Mr Gurney Hoare called with Mr Edward and Mrs Richard Hoare. G K wrote to Cremer asking for his custom. Mr and Mrs Mills called on their way to the Missionary dinner at Gurney Hoare’s and told us Mr Mott had just called and invited them to dinner on Thursday, but they were going to Norwich. He also read a letter from Lady Buxton asking his forgiveness. Minnie and Ellen sent their confirmation papers to Mr Anderson. Tuesday 28th September Miss Cremer and Mr Herbert Jones called; Mr Cremer went to Metton to ask Mr Anderson for the use of the church for the13th – present of a flower vase from Mrs Anderson and ???? ???? from Mr Anderson to Anna. Wednesday 29th September Maria Frost and Emma Everitt left having been here a month. Confirmation tickets sent to Minnie and Gertie. Wednesday 29th September Margaret went to Cromer to invite Mrs Wilmore to lunch tomorrow but found she had left Cromer. Called with Minnie on the Gurney, Edward and Frank Hoares, who were all out; on the Jollie’s who were at dinner and at Northrepps, saw the Dowager who asked if I was not fretting at the approaching wedding and how Anna’s spirits were. Mrs Fowell Buxton then came in and made similar enquiries. Mrs Charles was in mourning for a nephew who had just been drowned at her house. Cremer came to dinner and to stay till Saturday. Thursday 30th September Mr Upcher and Russell called to ask Cremer to shoot with them and Mr Blake tomorrow but he was going to shoot at Cromer so refused. Mrs Birbeck sen. called.

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Friday 1st October Present from A M Buxton to Anna. Went to the farm to see Lady Sondes new calf. Cremer shot at Cromer Hall. Priscilla, Anna and Margaret took luncheon to him. Mr Davids and Mr Bosworth-Smith the keeper remarked to Mr Davids that love making and shooting did not go well together. Mrs Gurney Buxton and Kate Hoare called. Andersons went to Felsham. Saturday 2nd October S Rudd left Cromer went home and did not return till 5.30. Priscilla and 3 of the girls went to Mr Fish’s but only found Miss Shepherd at home. Lady Buxton – Mrs Fowell and Barclay called. The old Dowager asked twice if dear Anna was quite happy! Mr and Mrs Wollaston Blake called. Cremer brought his new horse while they were here – which they and we all admired. E Lawson and I Gostling came home – the former brought the bridesmaids dresses. [Eliza Lawson] Sunday 3rd October Sacrament at Felbrigg. Present for Anna from Mr and Mrs Rogers and one for Cremer from Mr and Mrs Winter. John went to Aylmerton church and turned faint and was led out by Spencer and Fuller. Monday 4th October John much better but did not go justicing. Cremer went and then went home for good. Miss Fuller brought testimonials from her mother and herself and saw the orange house. Tuesday 5th October Mrs J Hoare called to enquire for John. Mr Buxton and Mr and Mrs C Buxton called and had 5 o’clock tea in the schoolroom. Cremer did not come but sent some game. Wednesday 6th October Fresh row with Winter and John sent a very sharp letter and then went to the N Walsham Agricultural show – but did not stay to the dinner. Priscilla, Anna, Margaret and Ellen took luncheon to Cremer at the Hall woods. Mrs Hutton (who came last night) and Bella joined them, the latter gave Anna a brooch. Miss Custance sent a testimonial and A M Buxton’s arrived at Beeston and gave great satisfaction to Cremer. Thursday 7th October Dowager Lady Buxton sent Anna a ‘Life of Sir F Buxton’ and offered the use of her carriage for the wedding. Cremer sent a trout and a mullet and rode to N Walsham with Anna to get the licence. Mr and Mrs Feilden called and told us the Motts and Upchers were very angry at not being asked to the wedding. Mr Fitch sent one of Miss Colson’s views of Cromer as a wedding gift to Cremer. John much annoyed at the number of rabbits on Felbrigge heath and put Everitt on to catch them. A note from Micklethorpe? in the evening. Friday 8th October Letter from Coaks to say he would come on Tuesday, when the settlements could be signed. Anna’s dresses came from London. The wedding dress much too large and the travelling do [ditto] short instead of long as ordered. Anna much annoyed at. Wrote and accepted the Dowager’s offer of her carriage. Mrs Hutton and Bella came to see the dresses. Priscilla and Anna went to Beeston. Cremer sent 8 brace of pheasants. Mr and Mrs Mills sent a testimonial. Saturday9th October Testimonial from Mrs Heaviside. John went to Kelling. Mrs G Hoare called but saw only Priscilla. Letter from Mrs Curtis offering to dress the young ladies as she was in the habit of dressing the

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nobility. Bobbie came home for a week. Dodd came after dinner at 9.40 and brought a large brogue? owl, a present from Mr Billington. Mr Leighton came Sunday 10th October Anna played at Aylmerton for the last time. Cremer came in the afternoon ill and much worried and had been to Cooper. Piggy gave a sermon from the Song of Solomon ‘This is my friend’. After church Priscilla made him understand he was not wanted at the wedding. Mr and Mrs Blake came to tea. Monday 11th October Anna arranged all the presents. Priscilla, Anna and Margaret took lunch to the Hall woods. Cremer and Billington came to dinner – very dull evening. All the girls dressing the church. The wedding cake and presents from Pris. Johnston and Mrs Walker came at night. Tuesday 12th October Mr Fish brought some lovely flowers. All busy finishing the church. Miss Cremer came to call with Mr Billington. Mr Winter and Mr ???? came about the settlement – Mr Coaks and Mr and Mrs Norgate came and Cremer. The settlements were signed and Cremer and Billington went away. Anna played to Mr Norgate all the evening. Cook and John came. Mr Frost sent grapes and Mr Coaks brought a present. Wednesday 13th October ‘The Wedding Day’ – dressed early and so did the bridesmaids. When Bobbie compared them to the five foolish virgins – Cremer and Billington came at 10.45 and had their favors put on and went to the church. The Cremers kept us waiting but at last came and the procession set off – the bridesmaids went in Lady Buxton’s carriage – the church and churchyard crowded. Hutton kept us waiting but at last it was got over and we went home at 12.5 Spent the interval till one in looking over the presents. The breakfast a great success. Mr Feilden gave the health of the Bride and Bridegroom in which he compared them to the ivy and oak. Cremer returned thanks in a very appropriate manner. Mr Rogers gave the health of the bridesmaids and Mr Billington responded; the ladies then retired. The Bride changed her dress and the happy pair left at 3 o’clock and a shower of old shoes. A dinner party of 20 and a dance in the breakfast room finished the day. Mr and Mrs Feilden, Mr and Mrs Beauchamp and Mr and Mrs Rogers were the only people not related who came except Mr Coaks – Mrs Fisher and Mrs Beauchamp and Lady Buxton sent testimonials and Mr H Jones sent Cremer a testimonial. Thursday 14th October Breakfast at 9; everyone very tired. John and Mr Coaks left soon after breakfast and Mr and Mrs Norgate soon after. Invitation from Mrs Windham Walker to the festivities at Hanworth on the 20th and to a private dinner afterwards. Sent Vincent to Cromer to see Cook, Arthurton and Mrs Singleton off by the coach. Priscilla and the three girls went to dine at Beeston and danced afterwards. Began fires in the library in the evening. Friday 15th October Bobbie went shooting at the Hall with J Cremer; Priscilla, Margaret and Ellen with Miss Billington, Bella and Emmie went to take them lunch. Mrs G Hoare and Mrs R Hoare called and saw the presents. Mr Hutton, Mr Billington, Mr J Cremer, Miss Billington and Bella dined with us and had a dance afterwards. Saturday 16th October Raining all the morning, but Bobbie went to shoot at Beeston. Joint letter of a romantic nature from the Bride and Bridegroom; another from the Dowager. In the afternoon Mrs J Hoare, the three Lady Buxtons and Anna, the three Wollaston Blake’s and Mrs Darrer (The wife of Major

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Darrer and widow of Col. Willoughby a noted man at the siege of Delhi as Mrs Blake informed me) called. Very tired indeed. Weather very cold. Sunday 17th October Felbrigge in the morning. Mr Bosworth did duty and came in the Beeston pony car. Most bitterly cold. Mr and Mrs Fleetwood Pellew with the Andersons; Mr Hutton preached at Aylmerton and mentioned in his sermon ‘that it was a special providence had brought him to Aylmerton’. Mr and Miss Billington were there and the church was crowded. Monday 18th October Very cold rainy day. John went justicing. Letter from Anna who was at Cambridge. Bobbie went back to school. Prince of Wales came to Gunton. Tuesday 19th October Felbrigge Cottage rent Audit – the highest sea at Cromer ever seen. Priscilla and all the girls went to see it. A ship wrecked at Sheringham and Cromer. Half the largest beech by the kitchen garden and several yards of the wall broken. Torrents of rain and hailstorm all day; most bitterly cold. Wednesday 20th October Went to the farm and saw Mrs Cothill; called with Margaret at Sheringham and went in but were told that Mrs Upcher had walked? and Mrs Buxton had gone to her room – saw Mr Upcher. Mr Buxton and Russell shooting. Mr Upcher made many enquiries about the Bride and was inclined to be very jocular on the subject of their losing their way. Called at Beeston, found Emmie Buxton, Mr and Mrs Winter and Mr and Miss Billington drinking coffee. The day of the Hanworth entertainment which went off very badly in drunkenness and fighting. Thursday 21st October Went with Minnie and Gertie to return Mr Fish’s box and take Miss Shepherd a piece of wedding cake. Very cold and rainy. Letter from Anna and Cremer who were going from Oxford to Ilfracombe. The Mills, Winters and Mrs F Hoare called while I was out. Friday 22nd October Micklethaite came at 10.30 and had an interview with John who was very angry with Meering for cutting some trees and went and told his wife he would have him put to prison for 3 months frightening her very much. Mr and Miss Billington, Mrs Hutton, Bella, John and Mr and Mrs Winter and Sophie came to luncheon. John got out of the way till 3 and then would not go down to dinner. Bella took a final adieu and went away crying and said she did not wish any of us to call again; had to send Mr and Miss B home in the Brougham. Mr B on taking leave hoped it would not be his last visit to Norfolk; sent Mrs B some cake. Bad night. Saturday 23rd October John very troublesome, but was gradually talked into a better state of mind and wrote a conciliatory letter to Micklethaite. The girls called on Miss Custance. Miss Colson and G Fitch called and had tea and saw the presents. Sunday24th October Joint letter from Tom and Anna who were at Ilfracombe. Mr Griffiths at Felbrigge in the afternoon. Monday 25th October Letter from Cremer again asking me to go to Beeston. Priscilla and Margaret went and found he had written to Mrs Skipper who was ‘rampaging’ but could not do much till Mrs Hutton and her children were gone and they were to leave today.

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Mrs Heaviside wrote to know what use they could be to us at the Confirmation. Mrs Rogers and her daughters called and stayed some time and saw the presents. Tuesday 26th October Continued heavy snow and hail storms. Made two cloaks for the confirmation. No one called. A large beech felled by the kitchen garden – which broke in the late gale. Wednesday 27th October Letters from the Dodds; snow and hail all day. No one able to go out. Thursday 28th October (different handwriting) Snow all the morning. Went to Norwich in the afternoon. No one went out. Arabella and John left Beeston. Friday 29th October A very fine day. Prissie, Margaret and Ellen went down to Beeston Went over the house; everything very dirty. Mrs Barclay and Miss Smith called in the afternoon. Saturday 30th October (different handwriting) Day showery had a letter from ‘cousin’. Came home in the evening after a very trying time. Minnie and Gertie confirmed yesterday. Lunched with Canon H. Continual storms with ‘junior’. Will signed at Coaks’ office. Mud and sheets of rain all day; went with Gertie to Bridgemans at 10.30; Minnie had a headache. Sunday 31st October Very cold foggy day. Mr Mills out for his holidays. Mr George at Aylmerton for the SPG. Too ill and miserable to go out. Monday 1st November Letter from Cremer to say Anna was ill, very anxious about her. Priscilla and two of the girls went to Beeston and found everything out or order. The Dodds coming home on Wednesday. Worked hard all day to get the toilet cushions ready. Tuesday 2nd November Letters from T and A to say the latter was better. Letter from Mr Soanes telling us of the dangerous ways? of his father. News arrived of the failure of Wrights of Antingham. Priscilla and 3 of the girls went to Beeston after breakfast to take some of the presents etc and found Mrs Bosworth there. The small rent audit took place today. Wednesday 3rd November John went to Norwich by the 10.30 coach. All the rest of us went to Beeston to see the newly married come home. A grand triumphal arch was erected over the gate with ‘Welcome Home and Health and Happiness’ and about a hundred men dragged the carriage the last mile. Mr Hankinson called and said though he was in Switzerland he knew the day they were married and was with them in spirit. Mrs Markham and the orphans came as soon as they were home. Thursday4th November Took up the billiard room carpet. Priscilla, Margaret and Ellen went to Beeston to take the remainder of the presents and help Anna to alter the arrangement of the drawing room which they did and stayed to lunch. Mrs Buxton, Emmie and Mrs Pigott called but saw only Minnie and Gertie. Mr Fish and Miss Shepherd called and had 5 o’clock tea. Wind so trying we could not keep a fire anywhere.

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Friday 5th November Very trying letter from I. Went to the farm in the morning and to Aylmerton church. Pouring rain all the afternoon. T and A came to dinner in a dog cart. Priscilla and Margaret went to Norwich. Saturday 6th November Ellen and Minnie went to Cromer for the wages cheque and saw Anna doing her first shopping there. Most bitterly cold – did not go out all day. John came home at night. Sunday 7th November Susan Steward died aged 57. No service at Aylmerton in the morning. Went to Felbrigge in the afternoon. Priscilla, Margaret and Ellen went to Aylmerton in the evening. Monday 8th November Priscilla and Margaret went to Beeston after breakfast. The Wallaston Blakes called and said they were leaving next week. Invitation to dinner from Mrs G Hoare which I refused as John would be out. Tuesday 9th November John went to Norwich for the rest of the week. It rained heavily all the… - Mrs Mortimer and a niece and two little boys called during heavy rain. Wednesday 10th November Priscilla and the girls went out for a walk in the morning; sharp wind frost. We had a brace of woodcock for lunch that Cremer sent us and just as we had finished them Mr and Mrs Beauchamp came to lunch. Took Ellen to stay a few days at Beeston – took 5 o’clock tea there and brought Lawson home. Thursday 11th November Minnie rode Confidence the first time for some months and went to Beeston and stayed to lunch and helped Anna to arrange her drawers. Went with Margaret to Northrepps found the Dowager rather ill; Margaret ill and fretting all day. Ellen wrote from Beeston to say she ‘liked the tone of the house’. Friday 12th November Letter from Mrs H saying she could not offer I a home, as I suggested – one from John about the misery of being detained in Norwich – I sent some grapes to the Dowager, the first this season and heard she was better. Called with Priscilla upon the Andersons and Miss Custance. The Cremers and Ellen called after I came home and stayed a quarter of an hour. Saturday 13th November Very wet, windy day. Priscilla and Gertie went to the farm. Mrs, Miss and Captain Dolphin called; John came home at night. Sunday 14th November Went to Felbrigge church in the morning, all the servants dressed in the most absurd way with a bunch of flowers on the top of their heads and large chignons. Walked with John in the afternoon. Felt very ill and miserable all day. Mr Mills home again. Monday 15th November Went to Beeston at 11.30 – Anna not down, not being very well. Brought Ellen back with me. Rained all the afternoon. Robins died today of a stroke of paralysis – working for us up to Saturday.

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Tuesday 16th November A very fine day, went to the farm in the morning and walked about all the afternoon. Mrs Cable came to say that Paul had been operated upon by Mr Cadge, but could not leave the hospital till Saturday. Margaret and Ellen went to dine at the Rogers and stayed the night. Wednesday 17th November John went to Norwich for the rest of the week. Priscilla and Minnie went to the Fishers church opening – very ill all day, not able to eat and a pain at my heart. At 2.30 a note came from Cremer asking Priscilla to come and stay the night as Anna was very ill and he had sent for Cooper, sent her as soon as she returned from Fishers. Cooper thought it a violent attack of indigestion; they had dined at the G Hoares and the Rogers and were to have gone to the Aylsham Bree? Did not close my eyes all night. Thursday 18th November Very ill all day; Priscilla came back; Anna better. Mr Mills came to lunch and told us the result of the parish meeting. Mrs Symonds came to ask Miss Blake to speak to her husband who had just turned her out of doors. Priscilla, Margaret and Minnie went to a dance at the Girdlestone’s and did not get home till three. Friday 19th November Went with Ellen to the practising, Priscilla went to Beeston and brought Anna back to lunch. Tom came for her – very ill and depressed myself all day but hope soon to shake it off. Saturday 20th November A very cold day, went to the farm with Gertie; severe hail storms all the afternoon. Priscilla went to Beeston to lunch. John came home by coach in the evening. Dreadfully depressed all day. Sunday 21st November A most bitterly cold bright day – went to Felbrigge church in the afternoon, still feeling very ill, weak and nervous. Monday 22nd November Went with John to lunch at Beeston; a very wet bad day. Mr Langford came uninvited and stayed the whole afternoon. Mrs Rogers and Mrs Lloyd called and Mrs Andrew and Pris Johnston. Tuesday 23rd November A very wet gloomy day – the Dowager Lady Buxton and Mr Hankinson called. Wednesday 24th November (different handwriting) The girls went to Cromer. Cremer and Anna called; glad to see them but felt very unwell. Thursday 25th November Went to Norwich with Ellen and John as I felt very unwell; saw Mr Cadge; did not say much. Prissy and Margaret went to the Matlaske sale; had lunch at Wickmere. Mr and Mrs Beauchamp quarrelled all luncheon time – not exactly ‘con amore’. We had a children’s party. The Fishers and Moores and Mr Mills. Friday 26th November Anna Cremer came to lunch Saturday 27th November Came back from Norwich – very ill.

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Sunday 28th November No letter – rather worse Monday 29th November Gertie and Margaret went to Beeston in the morning. Mr and Mrs Megrick called – still ill. Tuesday 30th November Margaret went to dinner at Beeston and stayed the night. Wednesday 1st December Margaret came home – snowing. Thursday 2nd December Gertie went to stay at Bracondale. Mr and Mrs Jolly called – still very ill. Friday 3rd December John came back from Norwich. Cook came!! Saturday 4th December Anna Cremer called. Very cold. Sunday 5th December The girls went to Felbrigge church. Monday 6th December Anna Cremer called. Mrs Anderson called Tuesday 7th December Anna came to the day. Mr Upcher and Laura came. Wednesday 8th December Ellen and Minnie went to Beeston and from there to Barningham to dinner. A pleasant party – 11 ladies and 6 gentlemen. The dolphins, Major Bourchin. Piggots and ‘Young Walpole’. Thursday 9th December John came from Norwich; the girls came home. Friday 10th December Anna came. Mr Mills and the 2 Lady Buxtons called. Mr Cadge came to see me. Saturday 11th December Anna came; the Buxtons and Motts called. Sunday 12th December Dodds called; the girls went to Felbrigge and to Aylmerton. Mr Cooper came Monday 13th December Went to lunch at Beeston with Minnie. Crane came. Very ill. Tuesday 14th December Anna came to lunch. Went to the Village. Mr Cooper came. Wednesday 15th December Priscilla Johnston and the Buxtons called.

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Thursday 16th December Lady Buxton called. Ellen and Margaret went to call on the Girdlestones. Friday 17th December Went to Aylmerton practising. Anna Cremer called!!!! Saturday 18th December Raining all day; high wind. Still very ill. Sunday 19th December The girls went to Felbrigge and Aylmerton. Monday 20th December Anna spent the day; went with the girls to call at Northrepps and Colne House- very ill. Tuesday 21st December John went to Norwich to bring back Gertie and Bobbie. Wednesday 22nd December Mr and Mrs Mills and Anna came to lunch and to help to make decorations for the church. The girls had all the ???? ‘Choir’ to an entertainment in the Servants Hall, gave away old hats and clothes. The Dowager Lady Buxton and Anna called. Thursday 23rd December Ellen and Margaret went to lunch at Beeston met Anna Mary Buxton. Helped the Mills to dress up Aylmerton church. Mr Cooper came. Friday 24th December The girls helped the Andersons to dress up Felbrigge church; they all came to lunch. Saturday 25th December – Xmas Day The Cremers and Mr and Mrs Mills to dinner. I was too ill to appear. Snowing hard. Sunday 26th December Margaret and Anna and Gertie went to Felbrigge in the afternoon. Dodds and Bobbie went to Beeston. Monday 27th December Bobbie and ‘Snail’ went to Beeston to shoot. Tuesday 28th December Margaret went to Beeston with Anna. Went to dinner at Sheringham – still very ill. Wednesday 29th December Anna and Dodd came to stay the night. John’s rent Audit Dinner – rather slow as the farmers would not talk, but they smoked, so did John!! Thursday 30th December Anna went home, the four girls went to dinner at Northrepps a very pleasant party. Mr Cadge came. Friday 31st December The girls went to the Aylmerton practising.