Jessie Redgrave's 1939 diary

Jessie Redgrave's 1939 diary

A diary kept by Jessie Redgrave during 1939 with detailed daily entries on her life.

1939

One printed diary with handwritten annotations

This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.

YRedgraveJM743047v20001

KIA-ORA

DIARY

1939

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[Patterned printed page]

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THE

KIA-ORA

DESK DIARY

FOR 1939

WITH MONTHLY AND ALPHABETICAL INDEXES

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[Page of General Information]

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[Tables of information on Bridge Scoring and Wages]

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DECEMBER, 1938

[Deleted] THURSDAY 22 [/deleted]

[Entries from FRIDAY 23 to SATURDAY 31 in diary from 1938]

SUNDAY-JAN. 1

Cont -. From previous diary

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JANUARY, 1939

2 MONDAY
Mum & I did our washing in the morning She took Gwen to the Pantomime
Window cleaner came in the afternoon

3 TUESDAY
Pamela still is not so good. Went to work in the afternoon
Harry bought two snips of champagne.
Harry bought home a lovely piano the very thing we want

4 WEDNESDAY
I went to work all day
Rain quite a lot today

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[Panel advertising Kia-Ora]

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MEMORANDA

Harry is joining the R.A.F. Volunteer Reserve so far as he has his school master signature Mrs Leslie & Mr Robinson

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JANUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 5
I went to work this afternoon [deleted] in [/deleted] till 8 oclock.

FRIDAY 6
Mum and I got a lot of work done in the morning. Pamela is a lot better and went to work in the afternoon

Harry has bought Pamela a lovely box of chocs.

SATURDAY 7
I am sitting on the bed by a lovely fire in our bedroom writing this it [underlined] is [/underlined] lovely. Harry and I had a Champagne supper. Excelent! Bought some Bickie-pegs for Pamela

SUNDAY 8
20/ min fire Went out for a walk in the morning with Gwen to the aerodrome. Vera came up. We all had a game of Monopoly

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JANUARY, 1939

9 MONDAY
Mum and I did our washing this morning.
Harry and I fitted Mum’s wireless on top of the cabinette this afternoon and then he went out and bought Mickey’s hook to hang his cage upon he looks a lot better now complete with cuttlefish
Making Pamela another petticoat

10 TUESDAY
Hanging out the rest of the washing
Went to work in the afternoon to finish at 6.15pm
Had a game of Monopoly with Mrs Jacombe.
Turned bitterly cold tonight
[Calculations]

11 WEDNESDAY
Rained during the night
Harry took me to work on the motor byke
Harry had the piano tuned. Practicing some of my old music lessons again. Band Waggon was good tonight.
Stan came with his young lady to see Harry.

8 1/4 5/6

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JANUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 12
Did a bit more washing nearly filled the line washed the front room carpet looks better and the hall runner
Went to work in the afternoon finished 6.15.pm.
Did my ironing 2-10

FRIDAY 13
Pamela’s birthday her first birthday time does fly. She is such a little dear. Her daddy has bought her a birthday cake and a box of chocolates
Agnes – a pink wooly coat Gwen Hanks a petticoat & a lovely dolly. Mrs Souster was down [inserted] with [/inserted] the flu so could not come to tea.

SATURDAY 14
Mum & I getting very busy for tomorrow had Pamela’s party today Stan & Gwen bought a lovely doll & Big ball

SUNDAY 15

Joyce & I made the sandwiches to the party. The party was a success & everybody enjoyed themselves Dolly & Sid bought Pamela a novelty toy coloured wooden rings

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JANUARY, 1939

16 MONDAY
Mum & I were a bit worried over Joyce & Tom could not seem to do any work. Joyce was feeling a bit brighter
Harry and I went to the Astoria in the afternoon the first time for months saw “Robin Hood” Errol Flynn – Olivia de Havilland.

17 TUESDAY
Did my washing but it rained still worried about Joyce cant seem to get the work done.

18 WEDNESDAY
Harry spent a lazy day half in bed & the rest in an armchair Harry is starting Vernon’s Club Band Waggon was very good – “Stay in my arms umbrella”.

Joyce & Tom seem to have to some arrangement thank heaven.

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JANUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 19
Mum went out and ordered her divan I went to work in the afternoon.
Agnes’ mistress bought Pamela a pretty dress hand [deleted] embroidied [/deleted] embroidered I have never seen such a sweet dress. Harry is laying in bed beside me waiting for me to pack up writing this

FRIDAY 20
Mum & I got with the work O.K. in the morning
Went to work in the afternoon

SATURDAY 21
Harry owes me 1s 2d 3s 0d
2 3
6-5

SUNDAY 22
Harry & Tom made mum’s bed look a treat looks quite modern. Gwen Pamela in the pram & I went for a walk a bit cold.

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JANUARY, 1939

23 MONDAY
A nice day for washing did some of mine ready for tomorrow
Harry & I went over to Milly’s in the evening had quite a chat wireless promgrame was good about Jan-birthday’s
Pamela a bit [deleted] toughy [/deleted] touchy

24 TUESDAY
Harry’s Mothers birthday 55 years
Sun shone all day today the best day for a long time for drying my washing Pamela was very good today Turning very cold tonight
Harry had to buy a new tyre for his front wheel.

25 WEDNESDAY
What a terrible day it has turned out to be. rain and snow and very cold
Harry tool me to work morning and afternoon finish at half past five
Pamela hurt her finger in the door. very good “Band Waggon” and Variety still very cold

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JANUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 26
Aggies case arrived today it is a very nice one blue Harry’s shirt arrived and Joyce’s wedding ring
I went to work in the afternoon finished 6-15pm.
Had a nice bath

FRIDAY 27
Pamela cut a tooth today [deleted] a [/deleted] in the bottom row.
Went to work in the afternoon finished at 9.O clock.

SATURDAY 28
Sat – rather cold Mum & Joyce went flat hunting and shopping Washed my hair & had a game of monopoly with Gwen.

SUNDAY 29
Made mum a bolster for her divan We had a very good game of monopoly in the evening I won
We gave Aggie her case she was very pleased Harry & I turning the front garden over

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JAN.-FEB., 1939

30 MONDAY
Mum did her washing I did a bit of mine. Harry & I went to Southend to pay the rates
We went to the Moscert and saw Bing in “Doctor Rythme”

31 TUESDAY
Nice day for washing did all my ironing and mending. Mum went to pictures with Mrs Jacomb.

1 FEB.-WEDNESDAY
Went to work all day. Pam went for a walk for the first time down the path

Harry & I went to see Florrie she has got a baby boy.

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FEBRUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 2
Still cold
Went to work in the afternoon till 7- O clock

Pamela has a bit of a cold

Harry’s chain broke. coming home worse luck.

FRIDAY 3
My husband’s birthday 27th year I have bought him a pr of leg shields including his Mum Aggie bought him two of socks.
Bought himself a pr pyjamas

Very foggy all day
Met Nurse Leadbeatter tonight had a long talk in the fog. Went to work this afternoon

SATURDAY 4

1’/- Kye light 6/S & 1/- = 7/5 [symbols]

8/- SUNDAY 5
A nice day Made Joyce’s curtain & Mum’s sheet. Play mon- in the evening Aggie bought a birthday cake for Harry & hers Birthday it was lovely. Pamela not so good in health

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FEBRUARY, 1939

6 MONDAY
Sun is shining looks [deleted] likle [/deleted] like a summers day Mum has done all her washing We both went to Southend in the afternoon Paid Abbey Road.
Harry put new [inserted] valve [/inserted] springs. at 13,240 miles

I bought myself a new hat at last and Harry likes immensely.

7 TUESDAY
Another lovely day did crowds of washing Pamela a little irritable with her teeth. People moved in next door into their £900 bungalow
Harry & I popped down Southend to see about Tom electric light
Did my ironing in the evening and my mending then had a bath It is raining now.

8 WEDNESDAY
Went to work all day
Harry is going to get in the [deleted] R A F Rerves. [/deleted] R.A.F. Volunteer Reserve. He went and saw his old school master and talk over old times.
I had Pamela’s coat washed and finished in the day and bought it home
Band Waggon was very good
Stinker is going to have an opperation for appentacitis

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FEBRUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 9
Mum & I got our work done as usual. Went to work in the afternoon Agnes had a lovely birthday cake made for her by her mistress it had on it “To Our Agnes” They bought a very good pair of brown shoes and some other friends bought her several pairs of stocking we bought a blue weekend case which she liked very much. Agnes certain is very lucky now.

FRIDAY 10
[Deleted] Agnes [/deleted]
Mum & I tried to get Saturday’s work in this morning what a scramble
I went to work in the afternoon finish at 8.30 p.m. Joyce & Tom had a lot to do they did not get to bed till 1-45 AM, they looked very tired their Bedroom Suite did not come for today

SATURDAY 11

Joyce & Tom were married at 12 Oclock today Joyce looked lovely the dinner went off lovely we play monopoly in the evening I won the 1st game. 4th. Milly & Frank came they looked very well Bobbie was ill though

SUNDAY 12

It rained a bit this morning just as Mum & I were going out for a walk but still we had plenty to do in the mean while. Vera came up in the afternoon

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FEBRUARY, 1939

13 MONDAY
Mum did her washing a very nice day.
I cleared up the mess in the long room after the wedding
Joyce & Tom came along in the evening Wireless was not to bad.
I making a crochet butterfly

14 TUESDAY

I did my washing another very nice day did my ironing in the afternoon played monopoly with Gwennie in the evening I had my bath and washed my hair

15 WEDNESDAY

Went To work all day Harry took my on the motor byke but something wanted doing to its in the engine

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FEBRUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 16
Mum & I got our work done and washed and dressed in the morning
Harry had his day off today as he has an appointment a 2.30pm. at the RAF offices at Pameria Towers he passed the board, but he had to go tomorrow to see the doctors.

FRIDAY 17
Washed over all the carpets this morning we are keeping the bungalow lovely The green grocer is still ill his wife looks very tired
Went to work in the afternoon finish at 8-oclock going to work I met Nurse Leadbeatter she took me to work in the car.
Harry has passed for R.A.F.V.R. He is sworn in for 5 years.

SATURDAY 18
Still very nice weather Mum & I got through our work lovely I went to Mums in the afternoon and Mum & Gwen went with Joyce to Southend Harry bought some roe home for supper I am making Joyce some more curtains

SUNDAY 19
Harry & I went over to Millys on the motor byke saw Joyce & Tom first Joyce had badly scalded her hand.
Went to Joyce & Tom in the evening Pamela did not want to sleep un the pram

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FEBRUARY, 1939

20 MONDAY
Nice day for washing Harry & I went to the Mascot saw “You & Me” & St Martins’ Lane”
Joyce’s hand is no better. Gwennie stayed in bed she had a bad head.
Pamela walked up & down the road today she loved it walked round to Elsie but she was out

21 TUESDAY
Did rest of my washing and all my ironing and mending

22 WEDNESDAY
Harry & Millie went up to Aunt Nell’s for the day saw Vera she is having a baby in June It rain a lot up in London
Harry got home a 2-15P.M. I took Pamela to my mother’s in the afternoon she had a good time 3/4 hours late for work.

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FEBRUARY, 1939

THURSDAY 23
Took Harry’s trousers to be cleaned and he had let some in the pockets
Worked in the afternoon took Pamela to Mum again

FRIDAY 24
Went to Joyce’s in the morning and dress her made her cup of tea.
Went to work in the afternoon finish earlier Heard Victor Silvesta and “Top Hat” again
They found Harry’s money thank good-ness

SATURDAY 25
Mum & I got our work done and the sun shone all morning but it poured during the afternoon
I washed my hair in the evening and altered my skirt

SUNDAY 26
I cooked the dinner this morning while mum went out Harry & I went over to Milly’s to tea it was all very lovely.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH, 1939

27 MONDAY
Mum did her washing and it was a very nice day

Harry & I took Pamela for a walk to the aerodrome saw some new Hawker Hurricanes

Harry & I went to the Ritz saw “Pygmalion” the best picture of the year.

28 TUESDAY
Did my washing today not quite so much for a change. Pamela is very amusing she is still cutting more teeth
Did my ironing and had a lovely bath.

The council have started laying the drainage in Hamton Gdns.

1 MARCH-WEDNESDAY
I went to work all day
Harry took me to & fro on his byke.
Doris is ill with the flu. so I did her work

We all listened to “bandwagon” very good indeed Auther Askey is a scream
Harry made a beautiful fire to night.

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MARCH, 1939

THURSDAY 2
Sun shone it is a lovely day I went to work in the afternoon I saw Elsie & her sister & mother doing some cooking as usual. Her sister is going to Switzland for a holiday very nice too
Harry brought home my handbag they had repaired it nice and strong.

FRIDAY 3
Still another very nice day Pamela is getting so clean now that I have not got so much washing to do.
I went to A in the after-noon finish at 9 o’clock

Aggie came and [deleted] fecth [/deleted] fetched to stay with her over the week-end

SATURDAY 4
Sun shone all the morning then it rained in the afternoon just as Mum & I planned to go shopping but still we went in the evening. I made some lemon curd it was good.

SUNDAY 5
Mum went out this morning with Pamela saw Mrs Winch Harry & I went over to Tilbury to tea with some of Millie’s friends had a nice time the ride there & back was grand.

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MARCH, 1939

6 MONDAY
I did my washing the morning and got it dry during the afternoon
I listened to the wireless. in the evening Harry bought himself some very nice grey [deleted] worsters [/deleted]. garbs.
He started attending his lectures tonight he has quite a lot to learn I hope he is successful.

7 TUESDAY
Went and saw Elsie in the morning did some gardening in the afternoon did my ironing and mending in the evening and had a nice bath.

8 WEDNESDAY
I Went to work all day Wed. Harry did a bit of [deleted] gardening [/deleted] studying during the day
Pamela is keep very well

We listened to “Band Waggon” the last but one this season Auther Askey is a fool

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MARCH, 1939

THURSDAY 9
Mum & I did quite a lot of work this morning
I went to W. in the afternoon saw my mother in the evening Bought Pamela yellow coat I had it washed again

FRIDAY 10
We got our work done O.K. Polish a lot of window fittings went to work in the afternoon
Harry went to his RAFVR. [deleted throuroughly [/deleted] thoroughly enjoyed it very exiting and thrilling rather interesting to
The little airplanes over the airodrome are called “Tiger Moths” Mum helped Harry with the garden

SATURDAY 11
It was a nice morning but it rain in the afternoon again Harry & I did a bit of gardening. Started altering one of my dresses

SUNDAY 12
Gwen, Pamela, & I went for a walk [deleted] pats [/deleted] past the aerodrome to Eastwood Church. Harry a quiet afternoon & evening indoors. Vera came up in the afternoon.

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MARCH, 1939

13 MONDAY
Turned out a better day today but it is still cold.
Harry & I went and saw George Formby in “Its in the Air” Washed my hair in the evening Harry went to his lectures feeling rather tired tonight It has turned very chilly.

14 TUESDAY
It has turned out a miserable kind of day I could not hang out any washing but still I had some drying by the fire in the evening Had a good game on monopoly in the evening with Gwennie
Had a very nice bath and nearly finish altering my dress

15 WEDNESDAY
I went to work all day Harry took the motor byke he went to work in the evening.
We listened to the last “Band Waggon” tonight it was very good. also there was a good variety.
I did my ironing as it rained yesterday

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MARCH, 1939

THURSDAY 16
Rain during the morning and Pamela did not seem so well so I let her play [deleted] a [/deleted] whilst [deleted] while [/deleted] we did the long room thoroughly.
Did a bit of shopping on my [dleted] biykle [/deleted] bicycle.
I went to work in the afternoon Pamela was better and very good in the afternoon because Harry just said so whilst I am writing this (the B so and so)

FRIDAY 17
Victor Sylvestere 9-15P.M. cancelled Herr Hitler does not seem so good after all, every thing is getting serious again. Harry had a letter from “Air Hire” to make an appointment for going up in the air I listened to Chamberlain’s speech he certainly is very disapointed over Berlin & Munich agreement. Very cold to day bitter

SATURDAY 18
Mum & I bought the tea for Sunday for 12 people Mrs Holmes tool Pamela out she did enjoy it

SUNDAY 19
Mille & Frank arrived and their friends We all had a nice tea and nice time The visitors had to leave us early to [deleted] cacth [/deleted] catch their train

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MARCH, 1939

20 MONDAY
Did some of my washing Mum [deleted] Harry [/deleted] & I went with Harry to the aerodrome to see him go up for the first time [Deleted] U [/deleted] He thoroughly enjoyed it he said it was better than motor byke riding it was grand.
While we waited for him we got frozen.
Altered two frocks this evening.

21 TUESDAY
Finished my washing and did a lot of gardening in the [deleted] evening [/deleted] afternoon did my ironing and mending in the evening washed my hair and had a bath went to bed before Harry got home Mum went to Thundersley Harry went to Pameria Towers They held a meeting there for future entertainment

22 WEDNESDAY
It poured with rain when I woke up this morning and poured in the front door went to W. all day home at 5-30p.m. We had the fire on in my bedroom tonight as the kitchen one went out

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MARCH, 1939

THURSDAY 23
Mum & I got our usual work done I went to A finished at 6.15pm Tried Agnes’ dress on her it fitted lovely I am so glad

FRIDAY 24
We did the bedrooms today and got washed and dressed before dinner Harry run me up to A finish at 7 oclock saw. Elsie Had quite a long chat and her husband showed me the [deleted] ds [/deleted] lounge it looked lovely I had never seen a room done like it. Harry played darts & table tennis after his lectures

SATURDAY 25
We got through our work. Took Mum to see Elsie and she showed us all her baby’s clothes they looked sweet I went shopping in the evening and it was raining looked at all the dresses.

SUNDAY 26
I cut out my new dress and started to make same. Harry & I spent the afternoon and evening around the fire.

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MARCH, 1939

27 MONDAY
Mum did her washing but it rained so she had to dry it indoors. In the afternoon I took Pamela to see Michael and Mrs Souster. Pamela had a lovely time playing with Micky’s toys he did not look any better in health poor chap.

28 TUESDAY
I did my washing it rained so I had to dry it all indoors did my ironing it the evening
Had [deleted] and [/deleted] a very nice bath

29 WEDNESDAY
I went to work all day and Harry motor byke has gone wrong so I had to pedal to work. I cut and thinned out mum’s hair & semi shingled it I was quite pleased with it

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MARCH-APRIL, 1939

THURSDAY 30
I went to work all day today got up early went on my bike Aggie took Gwen to Southend as usual.

FRIDAY 31
Mum I did our work as usual. I went to work in the afternoon Harry took on his motor byke
Saw Joyce & Tom in the evening He was sworn in the RAF.V.Rs. I was very pleased because he had not been to High School, so he was lucky I gave Joyce some pink wool to make a babie’s vest.

SATURDAY-APRIL 1
Mum went to Millies’ for the week end over till Monday night
I did feel queer during the morning I listened to the boat race Cambridge won Harry bought home a dozen [deleted] oste [/deleted] Oysters the first I had tasted grand

SUNDAY 2
Harry & I got up early so did Gwen & Pamela I helped Harry finish the back garden ready for the seed
Harry went to work in the evening

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3 MONDAY
Did all my washing this morning and cooked the dinner Pamela had a powder which made her sleep all the morning. I manage to wipe up the dinner things and put Pamela back in the pram for Harry to take down to the hairdressers to have my perm. It took 4 1/2 hrs. Miss Simmons did it very carefully and extremely well. Did my ironing in the evening my green bedspread look O.K.

4 TUESDAY
It poured with rain just before dinner but cleared up after, Joyce came with me to have Pamela’s photo down she had to stand on a chair with me sitting and wanted to get down. Saw Elsie again she looks very well and Ethel came up too.

5 WEDNESDAY
I worked all day
#Mum & I spent a quiet evening in the long room round the fire.

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APRIL, 1939

THURSDAY 6
I worked all day again took [inserted] Pamela to [/inserted] Mum’s in the afternoon

Pamela had a nice lot of Easter eggs. lucky girl and so did Gwennie

FRIDAY 7
Went to work in the morning came home with a shocking headache.
Joyce & Tom came round. he went up for his first flight he like it
Vera came along too we had a darn good game of Sorry.

SATURDAY 8
Mum & I saw Elsie and her baby in the morning.
After tea I felt tired to I went to bed I was not so good.

SUNDAY 9
I still felt pretty rough, so I set about doing nothing I felt terrible is was a touch of the flu.

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APRIL, 1939

10 MONDAY
Stayed in bed felt rather queer shocking headache. Vera came up & took Pamela out in the morning again.

11 TUESDAY
Feeling a bit better today Harry took Pamela and I to Barking. Had some Oysters for tea and being as I was feeling rotten again Harry gave me Champagne it certainly cleared my head.

12 WEDNESDAY
Harry Pamela & I went to Priory Park in the morning Pam did enjoy herself trotting about with other children

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[Kia-Ora advertising]

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MEMORANDA

Harry has camera gun test April 16th [deleted] t [/deleted]
First flight March 20 th.
Aerobatics April 16th

I had a touch of the flu Easter Sunday

Agnes had it the following Sunday, her mistress came round to tell us she is very nice & her friend Mrs Huntly.

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APRIL, 1939

THURSDAY 13
I went to A in the morning but I had a-nother nasty headache went to bed early in the evening

FRIDAY 14
Mum & I got through the work fine and I went to A in the afternoon felt very tired when I got home.
Agnes’ Mistress sent me the birds’ Cage I liked I cleaned it all up its brass and it looked lovely
Mum took Gwen & Pam to Southend & met Agnes. Pam is a pickle when she is out.

SATURDAY 15
Sun shone all the morning finish my dress and mended Pamelas dog that got burnt and iron her best dress.

SUNDAY 16
Dris-led with rain this morning it was really Mum’s Sunday off but she gave it to me. I popped up to see Joyce & Tom – Mrs Rogers came round in her car like the bungalow very much Did the front garden hoed & mowed Played Sorry in the evening

[Page break]

APRIL, 1939

17 MONDAY
Did my work & my washing a very nice day to Mum did a bit of gardening.
Went to Southend in the afternoon wireless was good in the evening, then it rain too late to put the grass seed Harry was disappointed

18 TUESDAY
A bit cold this morning but the sun shone and I had all my washing dry. I helped Harry seed the lawn and Gwen help me tie papers to keep the birds off. Did my ironing & mending in the evening and had a lovely bath Harry came in and ruffed my back down how seductive. Harry brought home a book ‘One bright Summer”

19 WEDNESDAY
Woke up and found the sun shining but did not want to get up. Harry took me to A. and I finished at 6-15p.m. Did some machining in the evening and made 6 dusters& 2pr [deleted] dusters [/deleted] knickers for Pam. Pamela has been very good today. I shall always have a picture in my mind of Pamela looking through the gate when she saw us go out on the motor byke she did so want to come

[Page break]

APRIL, 1939

THURSDAY 20
I went to A in the morning & took Pamela to my mother’s in the afternoon Harry brought me home a beautiful bunch of narcisis they smelt lovely they were out of his boss’s grounds.
It is a lovely evening out I hope the weather keeps fine Harry watered his seed lawn as it was still dry weather and no sign of rain

FRIDAY 21
A beautiful day I went to A in the afternoon finish at 8-45.p.m. Bought some chips on the way home
Gwen has still got her nasty cough

SATURDAY 22
Sat a nice morning but did not look so nice in the evening We had a nice fire in the reception room did some maching

SUNDAY 23
Mum took Pamela out and went to see Joyce they are coming down in the afternoon I made 2 Gainsborough tarts & 14 Madalines they all enjoyed them
Tom & Joyce came down we played M.

[Page break]

APRIL, 1939

24 MONDAY
Mum did her washing it rained during the morning I washing the net curtain they shrunk a bit they were not suppose to still they all do
I helped Harry & Stan make the cement path down the garden it is looking nice and did my back ache

25 TUESDAY
I did my washing and washed a blanket it was nice weather during the morning but it rained in the afternoon I got all my ironing done and cut out a nightie for Gwen’s doll. and we play M.
Mum got Pamela a mug for she keeps on breaking the cups. She is a little devil
Harry keeps moving about while I am writing he is a B nuisance

26 WEDNESDAY
Went to A allday bitter cold N.E wind Harry took me on the motor byke

[Page break]

APRIL, 1939

THURSDAY 27
Worked in the morning and [deleted] did m [/deleted] went to the Kursaal Cinema to see “Test Pilot” the first time I have been there made my appointment at the hairdressers. Joyce came round in the evening to see a house with a friend she might live there its very nice

FRIDAY 28
A very nice NE. wind has dropped but there was a ground frost
Went to A. finished at 7-15pm.
I left a book there I must go & get it tomorrow in case its lost.
Put the chrysanth’s cuttings in the garden this morning they are good ones Harry had [deleted] a yo [/deleted] them given to him.

SATURDAY 29
Did not feel so grand this morning we lit a fire in the long room and mum did some knitting I had an hair appointment at 3.0oc
Harry took me to a tail end of a wedding to introduce me to Mr. Davis & his wife they were very nice I got a little tottering on Sandeman’s Port and Champagne

SUNDAY 30
/Sunday. We all spent the day indoors it never ceased raining the whole time

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

1 MONDAY
Still pouring with rain and no end of weeds coming up all over the garden. Pamela & I went over to Millys all day she was pleased to see us and Pamela was ever so good Milly had to have Bobby put to sleep as the neighbours continuely complained. Mum met me off the train and we all had fish supper when we got home.

2 TUESDAY
I did my washing and had to dry a lot indoors I got all my ironing done. I am trying to get Pamela white coat finished for Whitsun

3 WEDNESDAY
I went to A. all day.
Mum & I went round to Joyce’s and did her curtains for her She has moved in to a lovely house upstairs her bedroom is very large. Harry & I saw the lady’s place downstairs it was very pretty.

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

THURSDAY 4
I went to A. all day and took Pamela to my mother’s in the afternoon Went I got home I did a bit of washing and had a lovely hot bath
I showed the girls at work Pamelas photo they all liked it very much.

FRIDAY 5
Mum & I got the work done alright I also cleaned Joey out did some washing Pam Yellow coat Bluebelled. the Birds stand looks nice.
Went to A in the afternoon finish at 7 o clock
I have been talking to Vera Mum & her may be going for a holiday to Hasting the first week in July. very nice too it would be the first since mum has been married.

SATURDAY 6
Mum & I got our work done and went to Southend in the afternoon, around the band stand and down the cliffs When we came home I had all my work cut out preparing sandwiches and things for tomorrow I bought P. a new pr of shoes

SUNDAY 7
Stan, Gwen, Harry & I got up 3.-30AM to go fishing of Barking creek we went aboard with three other fellows We all had a grand time 11 hours and I have never felt so fit for a long time it did me a world of good and it was very good weather Sun shone all the time

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

8 MONDAY
Mum did her washing and I hoovered every where in the bungalow and polished. The weather is gorgeous.
Harry took me to see “Men with Wings” a very good picture about history of aeroplanes and the progress
Weeded the front garden and trim the lawn. It is all looking lovely.

9 TUESDAY
I did my washing and got it all dry a beautiful day and hot Pamela looks comfy laying in the pram with the canopy over her and fast asleep she is getting brown. Pamela is a pickle there is nothing she wont touch and she had a little paddy does not want to come out of her bath and likes eating her soap.

10 WEDNESDAY
Went to A finished at 6-15p.m. Weather is still OK. The lawn is come along fine. Pamela is very good with exceptions now & again she is have a bit of trouble with her teeth. I altered mum’s dress tonight it is very nice material. Harry & I danced to the wireless when he came home from work Sunday has done us a bit of good.
The Havow Hensons have arrived

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

THURSDAY 11
Went to A. in the [deleted] after [/deleted] morning and took Pamela to see the girls in the afternoon they all loved her and she had a smile for every one. I altered mum’s dress and it fitted all right.
Harry & I danced to the radio it was very good like old times

FRIDAY 12
Mum & I did all the work we possible could because Aunty & Uncle were coming down tomorrow
I went to A in the afternoon finished at 8 O clock.

SATURDAY 13
Harry Mum & I got up @ 7 oclock and we were ahead with the work. and telegram came to say they were definently coming. They arrived safe & well. Went to Southend Granny & I went And saw Elsie and the baby.

SUNDAY 14
S We all went for a walk by the Aerodrome while mum cooked the dinner Aunty bought Pamela two pretty dresses, one pink & one yellow they went home at 7-30pm. as they had a long way to go home.

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

15 MONDAY
I did a bit of machining in the morning sat with Harry in the afternoon around the fire. Mum went to the pictures with Joyce.
Pamela is getting along fine.
Harry came home with his uniform he did look smart they were all good things.
Harry came top in Navigations
It rained today Mum did her bit of garden and I gave her some plants

16 TUESDAY
Did my washing & ironing did a lot of mending and repairing things in the evening had a nice bath.
It rained during the morning but it cleared after dinner

17 WEDNESDAY
Went to A all day Harry went to work in the evening I was very tired
Sun shone all day.

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

THURSDAY 18
Went to A all day My mother looked after Pamela in the afternoon came home and found a nice fire
Altered Mums dress.
Sun shone all day.

FRIDAY 19
Went to A in the afternoon
The sun shone all day.
I finish W at 8-30pm came home tired and Pamela was crying with her teeth and would not go to sleep I had to put her in the reception room to sleep

SATURDAY 20
We got our work done early and Vera & her young man took us to Hornchurch in his car to see the R.A.F. display I never seen such streams of traffic as there was that day, lined up for 3 miles

SUNDAY 21
S I got the dinner prepared and went out with Mum Gwen & Pamela for a walk. went over to the aerodrome. Harry & I walk to Rochford and back with Pamela

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

22 MONDAY
I done the reception room out thoroughly Hoovered the curtains and the suite washed the carpets & runner polished the floor all over and [deleted] Hooverd [/deleted] Hoovered the bedrooms. We all gardened in the afternoon Harry took me to Southend to do a bit of shopping then we came back & done the front garden thoroughly Cut Joyce’s dress out in the evening

23 TUESDAY
Sun shone bright it is a lovely day for washing Harry & I sat in the garden in the afternoon and Pamela slept in the pram.
I did all my ironing and machined some of Joyce’s dress. Had a lovely bath.

24 WEDNESDAY
Went to A all day, fitted Joyce for her dress in the evening and finished it and sew some large pearl buttons on Pamela white woolly coat I made for Whitsun it does look nice
Harry & I were busy turning out his robet & my wardrobe at 11-15pm but still they look better for it

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

THURSDAY 25
I did not feel so good today nasty pain in the Back. Joyce’s dress is to big so I must alter it
I had a nice little honey pot Agnes gave me a little brown one with flowers around it

FRIDAY 26
I went and had my hair set at Ediths this morning the sun shone lovely but the wind is a bit cool. Went to A this afternoon finish at 6-30p.m.

SATURDAY 27
We got our work done and Mum went out with Mrs Jacomb and I tool Gwen & Pamela down the beach Pamela did enjoy it. We saw Harry later & Stan

SUNDAY 28
Harry work Morning and Evening Mum went out with Mr Jacomb so Pamela helped me with the front garden she tried to hoe she certainly got the idea I bathed her about 8-30pm the Agnes & Gwen came home so Gwen & Pam went to bed together

[Page break]

MAY, 1939

29 MONDAY
Harry went into work and help with [deleted] di [/deleted] oysters his governor’s son is doing quite a lot of wholesale as well as retail. he will be [indecipherable] Harry at the end of the season.
Harry took me over to Barking Creek to get no end on oysters, in the evening we all went to Priory Park it had turned very chilly North East wind

30 TUESDAY
Mum stayed in bed today as her back was not any better “lumbago”. I did all my washing it was a lovely day and I managed to have 1/2 hr in a deck chair. I did my ironing and mending and had a nice bath then got the supper and had a chat with mum. Pamela has been a very good girl all day and she is getting very loving bless her

31 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day finished at 6 oclock. Joyce looked after Pamela in the afternoon Mum went to bed about 7 oclock she is feeling better. I took Pamela along the road to the sweet shop to buy some choc. I spoke to a young lady next door but one and she is having a baby in November she is very happy about it and she loves Pamela.

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

THURSDAY 1
I went to A all day and Harry’s mother push Pamela down to my mum in the afternoon and they went down to the beach. Joyce was all alone when I got home, and when Pamela was put to bed we had quite a long talk in my bedroom Tom came and fetched her at 10-30pm he said he was going up in a Avro [deleted] H [/deleted] Anson on Saturday, he was quite bushed with himself

FRIDAY 2
[Deleted] We [/deleted] Gwen’s wardrobe arrived this morning a very nice little one too
Mum & I altered the room round to make more room. I went to A and finished at 8-45 Heard a good variety on the wireless and a good play called “Musical Chairs”. Harry has started working till 10-30pm now for the season.

SATURDAY 3
We got work done as usual. Mum went out with Mrs Jacomb. to the pictures I altered two dresses one for Joyce & one for me.

SUNDAY 4
Mum went to Mrs Jacomb to dinner so [deleted a [/deleted] I put the meat in the oven and went out with Pamela for an hour then came back put the dinner on and made a cake Harry & I spent the afternoon in the garden then went to Chalkwell Park. then went in the Bell.

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

5 MONDAY
Mum went round to Joyce’s to do her washing in Her new machine I washed the curtains in the long room and done all the paint. Harry took me over to Millies in the afternoon then he came back and went to the RAF. I mowed the front garden and watered it Mum done some and the back garden. I pulled all the weeds out on the public path.

6 TUESDAY
I did my washing today not so much as I sent some to the laundry then I washed three blankets out they did look nice & clean.
It is hot today I believe it is the hottest day [deleted] week [/deleted] we have had so far this year. I did my ironing in the evening and finished Joyce’s dress and made Pamela a beach dress of pink print. Harry & I had a lovely bath.

7 WEDNESDAY
Another hot day went to A all day Harry received a watch from Aunt Nellie for him to go up in the aeroplane. Pamela a bit touchy [deleted] tutchy [/deleted] tonight I wrote a letter in reply to Aunt Nellie and posted it finished the dress for Pamela. it does look nice. Harry is reading a good book called “Testament of Steven Fane” hot.

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

THURSDAY 8
Went to A all day very busy this week my feet ached.
Harry went. up in the Avro. he did enjoy it then he went to his lectures in the evening. Altered my trousers to fit

FRIDAY 9
I went to work in the afternoon it is a beautiful day.
Mum went out with Pamela in the evening I arrived home first and watered the garden.

SATURDAY 10
The weather is still fine had a sleep in the afternoon to make up for the morning as we were off to Chedar Gorge. Saw Elsie in the evening [deleted] us [/deleted] her baby is fine.

SUNDAY 11
We started off 2 oclock in the morning but it started raining so we turned back Stan & Gwen came back too so we slept and went to Godsfield Lake & Colne Valley & Flatford Mills we had a lovey day

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

12 MONDAY
Mum did her washing today and I help her with two blankets did some weeding in the garden I helped Harry in the afternoon with mum’s wireless set the cord from the gang had broken but after mending it something else was wrong.

13 TUESDAY
I did my washing and a blanket Pamela seems to have a cold coming
It certainly is cold today not a bit like last week. I did my ironing in the evening and Joyce popped in, it was pouring with rain.
Harry & I had a lovely bath each.

14 WEDNESDAY
Harry went on his flight with Vicky Captain McGill & Lt. Barlow to Exeter they left at 5 oclock. Harry phoned Stan when they arrived and he came down & told us. I had the bed all to myself. Harry came back at 2 o’clock [inserted] on Thur [/inserted]and brought home some Devonshire cream They navigation was top hole they came out [inserted] right [/inserted] over the aerodromes. Harry had a lovely [from next page] time when they arrived at Exeter Lady Mcgill came in a car to meet them and Vicky Harry stayed at a hotel for the night they had a picnic in the aeroplane on the way back. [/from next page]

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

THURSDAY 15
I went to A as usual.
Freda told me Joan had a baby girl 9lb born, but her mother had gone to Scotland with Bobby Abrey & Nancy, apparently there was some misunderstanding Mr Holmes is staying with Joan & Freda with Dick’s people I am very sorry about it all. their home is all broken up.

FRIDAY 16
Went to A in the afternoon finish at 6 Oclock quite early for a Friday did some gardening in the evening

SATURDAY 17
A lovely day. took Gwen & Pamela on the beach at Westcliff a bit windy had a look at the shops a met several friends I use to know.

SUNDAY 18
Harry worked both turns today. Mum & I took Pamela for a walk to St Mary’s church just as we got back it poured with rain and I felt rather queer.

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

19 MONDAY
A lovely day and mum did all her washing she had quite a lot
Harry & I did a bit of gardening. Pamela helped. She is getting on lovely. Harry went to the RAF in the evening.

20 TUESDAY
I did my washing and washed my bedroom curtains & washed the paint the curtains have shrunk a bit.
I went round to Joyce’s flat it does seem a shame to have to move again it all looked so nice every where, it made my blood boil to think Mrs Phillips played such a dirty trick on them

21 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day the work is getting slack
There was a scene out side Mrs Phillips house tonight the chap she is going out with hit Tom because he would not pay the rent they played a dirty trick on him so vice versa it made Joyce cry & scream her head off I was wild about it all especially in Joyce’s condition

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

THURSDAY 22
I went to A. Joyce went out to look for a place and found a nice top flat in Byne Dr. near us and they are taking it [deleted] it [/deleted].

I went and saw Mrs Phillips and properly told her off.

Harry went for his flight at 13.45 [deleted] pm [/deleted] and did a spot of camers [deleted] gunning [/deleted] gunnery he felt a bit seedy afterwards

FRIDAY 23
I went to A as usual Joyce & Mum went out in the morning to get a removal man but they were all booked up but when Tom came home dinner time his pals had offered to help him and on a barrow so it saved a bit of money for them

SATURDAY 24
Pamela & I went to Southend after tea and I bought her a pair of new blue shoes she does like them Gwennie went to her mothers for the week end. Harry bought a plane model to make

SUNDAY 25
Harry Pamela & I went over to Milly & Frank’s we met Franks Parents and his youngest brother & baby sister had a lovely time Pamela thoroughly enjoy herself. He was very good and such charming company.

[Page break]

JUNE, 1939

26 MONDAY
I did a bit of washing but no ironing the week I did a bit of gardening in the afternoon I had to take Pamela down to the sweet shop to get some chocolate Mum & Joyce went to the pictures so I went to [deleted] the [/deleted] bed early.

27 TUESDAY
Harry & I went to Margate on a sea trip. We got up early 5 o clock. and went to Tilbury Station by motor byke and train to Fenchurch Street Station. The sun shone all day and we had a thundering good time Dinner at Dreamland we landed at Tilbury pier and motor byke home Harry went to the R.A.F.
I bought Pamela a wooden [deleted] buck [/deleted] duck She had been a good girl

28 WEDNESDAY
I went to work all day did a bit on gardening in the evening
Pamela went to bed good as gold she is getting on lovely and she like her duck very much
The weather is not so good today [deleted] an [/deleted] there was a terrible fire in London today and on the previous day and on the placards tonight another one. there certainly must be some one behind it all.

[Page break]

JUNE-JULY, 1939

THURSDAY 29
I went to A all day and took Pamela down to Mums and she took her on the beach she was a very good girl. In the evening I bought home a box of anteriums 4 doz for 1/2d and mowed the lawn and trimmed it Harry went to the RAF they are preparing for the exams

FRIDAY 30
Turning a bit cold. we got our work in the morning Pamela is keep well shoe likes her duck and fork & trowel. I bought another box of anteriums “Dark Prince” for the back garden I finish early at A. so I did a bit more gardening.

SATURDAY-JULY 1
Got the work done went to Southend in the evening Pamela did enjoy herself had a nice ice cream at “Rossi” bought quite a number of things

SUNDAY 2
[Deleted] Sun [/deleted] Harry is flying in the morning her went over to France Cape Griz Nez he had a lovely flight and his navigation was good Mum & I went to Southend in the evening I made a ginger cake

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

4 MONDAY 4
It turned out to be a lovely day. Vera came up she is on holiday this week. We went down on the beach Pamela did enjoy herself. Vera & I went to the pictures in the evening I cant remember the last time we went together. Started knitting a woolly set for Joyce’s baby.

4 TUESDAY
I did my washing and it started to rain as soon as I put some out but after that the sun shone and it was a hot day I got my washing dried air ironed and repaired. Harry bought me 8 dahlias Snow white & the Seven Dwarfs and Harry reminded me it is our anniversary day we have been out with one another 10 whole years not a day to long.

5 WEDNESDAY
Not such a nice day it rained a bit during the morning. Harry took Pamela for a ride in the van when he took me back to work she did enjoy it then again in the evening when I finish work and when he went back to work Pamela wanted to go too she did cry. The world crisis is still very serious it certainly looks like war. I planted my dahlias tonight then afterwards Mum & I went for a walk and posted my letter bought some chip for supper.

[Page break]

Kia-Ora advertising

[Page break]

MEMORANDA

[Deleted] Aug [/deleted] Sept 2nd [underlined] Sat. [/underlined]

I changed my libraries got a book called “Gentle Eagle” by Christine Ore about James the Fourth King of Scots

Lord Halifax is

5000th Feet German planes.

Reuter reports that they have not declared war but they have bombed many of Poland Aerodromes and badly [deleted] cpl [/deleted] crippled them The German planes are reinforce theirs for protection.

All men are called upon to enlist aged are from 18 to 40.

Sept 3rd Sunday.
News they are still fighting
An important anouncement at 10-Oclock
We gave Germany an ultimatum by 11 oclock if they do not withdraw their troops [underlined] War [/underlined]

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

THURSDAY 6
Harry has booked up for flying 11 oclock for all day
Very windy today Harry found it a bit bumpy in the air, they past over Wimbledon Windsor Horse show and landed at Heston airport.
I went to A all day my mum took Pamela down the beach in the afternoon A letter arrived to say that the fruit dishes will arrive as soon as possible the factory had such a lot to do

FRIDAY 7
It rained a little during the morning Millie and Frank wrote to come down tomorrow so we are busy.
Went to A in the afternoon finished at 8-25pm. Harry said if I liked a fur coat Mum saw I could have it so I shall go and see it on Monday if it is still there

SATURDAY 8
Milly & Frank came down dinner time to spend the week end. with us
I ordered my fur coat today.

SUNDAY 9
Harry booked up for flying [deleted] next [/deleted] 18-45PM
Tom went up to and they went to Hadleigh in Suffolk. Harry was O.K. with his navigating
Millie & Frank & I played Monopoly I won, they went at 8-30
Joyce’s legs are bad.

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

10 MONDAY
Having Pamela’s photo done this afternoon I went but it was [deleted] too [/deleted] crowded. I am having a lovely fur coat 3/4 length. in coney musquosh. I am hoping to get it tomorrow night
Popped down to see Mum & Vera Aunty Jessie is coming down next week. I mowed the back lawn & watered the garden.

11 TUESDAY
A very nice day today I did a lot of washing and got it dry & air Pamela does not seem so good today a bit touchy. Harry took me up to Higgs’ to get my fur coat and it is lovely they all like it at home.
I mowed the front lawn, then I did my ironing and had a nice bath plenty of earwigs about.

12 WEDNESDAY
I went all day to A. Vera was on subdividing too and did we keep the work down. Harry brought me home in the van Mrs Jacomb came round in the evening she wanted to cut out a blouse we sat in the garden with the wireless it was very nice. Pamela was very good. I am making Joyce a babies dress

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

THURSDAY 13
Went to A all day. Harry did not fly this afternoon but did some swotting He got 37 out of 51 marks for a test paper. I am now going to help him with some administration.

FRIDAY 14
I went to A in the afternoon. We had a letter from Aunty & Uncle in the evening they are coming down tomorrow.
I felt very tired tonight

SATURDAY 15
It was a lovely day Aunty & Uncle arrived at 6 oclock. quite safe and happy We went to Southend in the evening Had a nice drink at the Bell spent quite a nice evening out. There was a plague of beetles & earwigs all round the bungalow.

SUNDAY 16
We all went for a nice [deleted] th [/deleted] walk to Belfairs golf course in the morning we had a lovely dinner & a nice tea a game of cards the Aunty & Uncle had to go home. I felt rather tired perhaps because they went.

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

17 MONDAY
Mum did her washing I popped down in the morning to see Mum about Aunty Jessie they came to see us in the evening with Vera. they liked our bungalow very much and my fur coat Pamela teeth were troubling her again

18 TUESDAY
I did my washing Mum went out early to go with Joyce up to the hospital and the gas men came in the afternoon to do my iron. I did all my ironing then went to the Astoria and saw “Trouble brewing” with George Formby.
Harry sat for his examination [deleted] on [/deleted] in navigation and administration

19 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day Mum Gwen & Pamela & I went to Priory Park in the evening men were fishing in the lakes. There is a lovely show of geraniums and Begonias

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

THURSDAY 20
I went to A in the morning they have started their new clock machines today. It made me a bit late to meet Mum & Aunty we went down the beach and It was very windy the tide was high We came home about 5-15p.m. I did a bit of sewing and darning Harry sat for his arnament & Photography

FRIDAY 21
I went to A in the afternoon finish at 8-45pm Aggie came and took Gwen away for the week and mum had her bath after taking Pamela out

SATURDAY 22
Mum, Gwen & I went to Southend in the afternoon shopping and met Milly & Frank on the way back. Harry had a friend he took to work & bough her a nice dress.

SUNDAY 23
Mum went out in the morning to Rochford Aunty Jessie & family came up and gave Pamela a (Panda) and took our photos I did the front garden in the afternoon and we went for a walk in the evening met Laurel & Ciril they have a new car. We went in the Bell Inn

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

24 MONDAY
Mum did her washing It poured with rain in the afternoon Harry & I wanted to go to the pictures but we read instead. I made Pamela a green taffeta coat in the evening and shortened Millies dress.

25 TUESDAY
I did a lot of washing and the curtains in the reception room at the back. Harry helped me put them up in the afternoon and he made some rubhard wine Gwennie went to the swimming baths
I did all my ironing and had a nice bath so did Harry he brought me home a good book “Salome the wandering Jewess” Viereck & Eldridge

26 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day Harry took me to the pictures in the evening I saw “Gunga Din” it was very good.
When we got home we kill no end of beetles & earwigs.

[Page break]

JULY, 1939

THURSDAY 27
I went to A, in the morning it was raining Elsie & Jack arrived about 2-30pm. They look well. we all sat in the front room and chat during the afternoon walk to Southend along the front and back up Hamlet court Rd home I was tired we slept in our own bed

FRIDAY 28
Mum & I got our work done I went to A. in the afternoon finished at 8-30pm. mad two cakes got slightly burnt I felt very tired
Harry & I slept on the settee

SATURDAY 29
This morning Mum & I did not feel much like work. but still it got done.
Gwen, Pamela & I went to Southend by bus no pram had a nice time, down in the children’s play ground. Harry & I sept in our own bed.

SUNDAY 30
I spent the morning in Priory Park Pamela enjoy herself. Jack Elsie Harry Pamela & I walked through the golf links & to Stonebridge Mills and it was a lovely day We had a good game of knock-out in the evening. Pamela good we slept on the settee

[Page break]

JULY-AUGUST, 1939

31 MONDAY
We all spent the day on the beach and Elsie & Jack it was very wind and had a few showers of rain I made a dress this evening for sun bathing.

1 AUGUST-TUESDAY
Gwen helped me do my washing this morning I did quite a lot The sun shone now & again
Ironed in the afternoon sewing & mending in the evening I had a nice bath then Harry Elsie & Jack. It poured with rained for an hour just as they were coming home from Millies somebody had a bad storm Finish my sun bathing dress & made Joyce some pillow cases.

2 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day. after tea we all had a good game of knock-out I [deleted] wkn [/deleted] won 8 1/2 d. Harry did not finish work until 10-15 pm so he was very tired.

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

THURSDAY 3
I went to work in the morning in the afternoon We all had a game of cards and monopoly Elsie & Jack went home at 7oclock they bought Pamela a silver bracelet very nice so sweet I went round to Elsie in the evening She is quite well her mother was they two

FRIDAY 4
We had several falls of rains at dinner time I had to wait as it simple fell down. I went [deleted] w [/deleted] work in the [deleted] evening [/deleted] afternoon finish at 8-45pm. Vera brought me in a lot of apples.

SATURDAY 5
We had several storms during the morning but the sun shone for a while in the evening Harry & I bought Gwen a tennis racket ring & Hi li for her birthday I did quite a lot of shopping at Southend.

SUNDAY 6
Harry worked all day I cooked the dinner Mum is at Mrs Jacomb’s house. I went for a walk in the evening and popped in and saw mum she has been very busy. The weather is very disappointing.

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

7 MONDAY
Vera bought Mr & Mrs Curtis up to see us during the morning it drisled with rain when it stopped we went over to the aerodrome. In the afternoon I took Pamela to the pictures but she gets to noisy I had to come out so I went for a walk down Hamlet Ct Rd and on the front Pamela looked very pretty people were admiring her as she walked along the front

8 TUESDAY
Washing day Mum & I did it together Had a card from Millie She was coming down but the weather is not so good shame. I did some ironing and had 1/2 hr sleep in the garden Harry & I went to the [deleted] Ritzy [/deleted] Ritz saw “39 Steps” with Robert Donat very good, found a bathing helmet.

9 WEDNESDAY
It keeps raining it is not a bit like summer. I went to A all day Harry busy down at the shop
Finished my ironing and started altering Mums dress another Agnes has got for her.
Raining again.

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

THURSDAY 10
Gwen’s birthday today at last she has looked forward so long for it and she has had some lovely presents too she is 10 years old now she had a nice little party and her mother bought her a lovely birthday cake. Mrs Rogers bought her a gold cross & chain. Pamela enjoyed herself too
I went to A all day (still raining
Harry went to RAF in the evening

FRIDAY 11
Got the bedrooms done and went to A in the afternoon very busy Millie & Frank came down.
Vera had a letter from her young man they had had a tiff.

SATURDAY 12
A beautiful day it has been after a wet week. Milly & Frank spent the morning in the garden. I painted Pamela’s push chair blue it looks better for it. I went to Southend in the evening procurede a form for Pamela show

SUNDAY 13
Harry went flying at 1030.AM. this morning and did not get back until 5 oclock. The crew went to Teignmouth in Cornwall Harry had a lovely time and the scenery is beautiful Lady Mcgill met them in the car 100mins.

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

14 MONDAY
Sun is shining lovely Millie & Frank spent the morning in the garden Mum did her washing There were a few Spitfires performing over head in the afternoon two Ansons landed at the aerodrome. Harry Pamela & I walk over to see if there were any on the field Harry went there in the evening to drill poor Harry, they are practicing for the Drummmer head of service Harry bought me a box of chocs

15 TUESDAY
I did my washing sun shining lovely, but I felt tired I read a good book “Conflict” Haydyn Guest on German people.
Did all my ironing in the evening. Gwennie has gone to Millies for a few days coming home Friday

16 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day a very hot day Mum & I bottle some rhubarb wine there were 20 wasps dead in it
I cut mum’s frock then Harry & I had a lovely bath before we went to bed

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

THURSDAY 17
Rather misty when I got up this morning but it is a sunny hot day
I work in the morning and made some of Mum’s frock in the afternoon
Took Pamela round to Codbo Corner after tea. Harry went flying all the afternoon doing bis Nav. 1 & 2 exercise. Stan clean his byke for him

FRIDAY 18
Mum & I got our work done in the morning I went to A in the afternoon finished at 8-15. Afterwards I went and met Harry from the aerodrome they were drilling in full uniform he did look smart then we went for a walk around might be our last.

SATURDAY 19
We got our work done I saw Mr Pringe about our water tap leaking he said he would send the plumber round. It was a lovely morning Gwen, Pamela & I went to Southend I have joined the Public Library .

SUNDAY 20
Harry went to work in the morning and flying in the afternoon did CG 2 & 3 (100%) & N3 Harry helped me with the garden in the evening he cleaned his uniform up for tomorrow Mum went to Sheerness by boat for the day, Made a lovely cake.

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

21 MONDAY
Mum did her washing I went down to see Mum she gave me some money to buy some medicine for Pamela chest its her teeth troubling her again I bought some oranges. Pamela is not eating much I finished Mums dress in the evening it looks nice.
Harry took me to Southend and change the library books & bought Pamela some black slippers.

22 TUESDAY
I did my washing got done nice & early Mum & Joyce went to see the doctor he said baby will be any day now I hope it wont be long because of the crisis it is getting serious I did my ironing in the afternoon took Pamela & Gwen up in Chalkwell Park not much there in the fair Mrs Jacomb came with me we met Mrs Wy & Mr Holmes

23 WEDNESDAY
I went to A all day finish at 5-15pm so dashed home and to Pamela to see the Carnival it was not so good Pamela was quite excited over the horses.
Went down to see Harry then went home I did a bit of machining and fused the lights I was in a plight but I managed to mend them but not the machine plug I left that
We listened to the news Hitler is still determined. The plumber repaired our leak.

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

THURSDAY 24
The crisis is getting more serious Russia has definitely signed a contract with Germany not to fight but still we were not relying on them
It rain a bit early I went to A in the morning Mum looked after Pamela in the afternoon while Harry & I saw “Four Feathers” very good.
I made 9 1/2 lb of plum jam in the evening, Harry went to his RAFVR. no orders yet thank God but they wont be long

FRIDAY 25
Mum & I did our work as usual but the war is still coming,
I went to work in the afternoon

SATURDAY 26
It’s a lovely day but the crisis is still bad I wish it could all be settled Harry is not thinking much of it every where A R P is preparing people are buy lot of food stuff.

SUNDAY 27
Pamela Gwen & I went to Chalkwell Park and saw Harry & Tom march in the Drum head service they look very smart the Navy & Terrys & army were not there they were called up

[Page break]

AUGUST, 1939

28 MONDAY
A lovely hot day mum is doing her washing The war is getting nearer every body nerves are on edge I don’t know which will be first Joyce’s baby or the war.
Harry & I spent a quiet afternoon by ourselfs it is nice to be alone
Harry went to the R.A.F. nothing to be done yet
Mum & Joyce are both worried if there is a war I did a bit of machining

29 TUESDAY
A nice day the news is still holding over. I did my washing and done my bedspread & blanket Did my ironing. We all listened to the Premier speech at 3.oclock They are not disclosing what is in the documents between Sir Neville Henderson & Herr Hitler but we are still preparing and standing by waiting ready for war it is up to Hitler to say Peace.

30 WEDNESDAY
A bit cold today. I went to A allday I felt queer about 10-15 a bit of tummy ache nuisance when I was working very busy Listened to the wireless the news is no better Hitler is still demanding Danzig and the corridor. Joyce went to the hospital this morning the doctor said the baby is a bit on one side that accounts for her pains. I did a lot of mending and made a white petticoat for Pamela

[Page break]

AUG.-SEPT., 1939

THURSDAY 31
Much colder today I went to work in the morning I went to Southend with Pamela & Harry I bought some material for a dress & Harry ordered a new suit for the winter but the news every where is getting worse I hope nothing comes of it The men are busy making trenches of sandbags. The government Have called up all the army & navy and started on RAFVR. Waiting now for more news.

FRIDAY-SEPT. 1
The sun is shining. Mum & I are getting on with the work & cooking but the news on the wireless is very bad Germany has started war on Poland bombed 8 places many killed & injured Harry is likely to be called up any time now, I shall be going to work just the same in the afternoon Harry will phone me if he goes. No Harry not phone but they have to report each day till they are told to go. [Deleted] SATURDAY [/deleted] We all have been listening to the news every hour I have covered all the windows and glass doors so the light does not show out side I wonder if anything will happen before morning

Sat. did our work[deleted] SUNDAY [/deleted] Phone Harry as a urgent paper came He reported in uniform and Tom they are on 7 days leave with pay till the 7th Sept even if war is Declare. The news said 34 German planes were brought down & 100 tanks bombed [inserted] Destroy [/inserted] German has said she has not declared war. [Underlined] cont. in memo [/underlined]

[Page break]

SEPTEMBER, 1939

4 MONDAY
France and England have declared War on Germany it is Hitler who has cause this terrible war they are invading Poland. The English planes came over last night about 3-30pm.
Mum was a bit agitated did not like because I mentioned it. Joyce is still O.K.

5 TUESDAY
I did my washing and ironing Harry & I spent the afternoon together only a few more days before he goes I wonder when I shall see him again

6 WEDNESDAY
I took Pamela down to the laundry this morning and saw Mrs Stockton the war has effected the work and only delivery when they collect because of lighting up time Mum seem all right she has an [inserted] attack [/inserted] case in case of flight. Harry & I went over to see Millie & Frank and they did not no quite what to think about the war. All the way down on the road every car & lorry was doing some government work I thought this might be our last ride together

[Page break]

SEPTEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 7
This morning I tried to paste the door with brown paper & cardboard but it was not any good so Harry took me to Southend and got a lot of large sheets it certainly it good but it makes a lot of extra work We all bathed this afternoon the tank does get hot Harry went down for his medical exam tonight. black-out at 7-30p.m.

FRIDAY 8
Mum & I got our work done and had dinner a bit latter.
I made a great big curtain for the shop Mr Leslie gave me 5/- for doing it
Mum & I spent a quite evening in the front room.

SATURDAY 9
Millie & Frank came down early Mum went to Southend with them We had a game of knock-out in the afternoon They could not get home so they stop the night and was it dark out Millie had a cold coming

SUNDAY 19
I went out for a walk with Vera in the morning bought some chocs and saw my mum. Millie & Frank went home in the afternoon
This black out at 7-20 is quite a preparation every night

[Page break]

11 MONDAY
I received money order for £3 from the R.A.F.
Harry & I went to the Gaumont and saw Jesse James Errol Flyn and Tyrone Power very good Harry & Tom went to the RAF in the evening I cut out a nightdress for Joyce she is still the same.

12 TUESDAY
I did my washing, but it rained a little very windy. The latest news is the British are fighting with the French on the front some Germans have supposed to [deleted] thro [/deleted] have deserted

13 WEDNESDAY
Mum Gwen & I went blackberrying we just got home & made dinner as Harry was home.
We sat in the front room in the afternoon Joyce & Tom came round we had a nice tea

[Page break]

SEPTEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 14
Harry’s day off He took me to Southend in the morning did some shopping bought some rubber over-boots We went to the Ritz in the afternoon saw Q. planes a darn good picture

FRIDAY 15
We got out work done and Mum went with Joyce & Tom to the Gaumont Gwennie Pamela & I went to see my mum she was very please to see us. It was showery all the afternoon & evening
We had a game of cards
Harry went to the Town Centre to get his pay. very good

SATURDAY 16
Harry has been simply wonderful to me today he has spent near £4 on me Hat shoes bag slip dress. pantees & vest corsets stockings and they are all lovely. Joyce still Ok they came round in the evening “Band Waggon”

SUNDAY 17
Mum took Gwen & Pamela for a walk while cooked the dinner Joyce still the same. Russia has started into Poland just the Polands were resisting well from the Germans. the French are gaining well on the Seigfreid line Harry is on duty all night at the T.C.

[Page break]

SEPTEMBER, 1939

18 MONDAY
A nice morning but blowing the sun is shining
Harry & I went to the Gaumont in the evening saw [inserted] “Goodbye [/inserted] Mr Chips” starring Robert Donat very good. Saw Joyce & Tom in there. Coming home it was a lovely starry night

19 TUESDAY
I did my washing I got it dried and aired Went to the Building Society and library Harry did a route march this morning it made his heels very sore Altered the sleeves of his RAF coat it is much better now

20 WEDNESDAY
Harry went to a foot clinic and had his heels seen to he got out of doing another march

Altered Tom’s coat for him he bought me a lock of coffee chocolate

[Page break]

SEPTEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 21
Mum & I did the bedroom today Joyce still the same
Harry & I spent and hr in the front room and I altered my new dress we met some friends in the evening Mr & Mrs Vale we went to the Rivoli saw “Jamaica Inn” Charles Laughton Leslie Banks and Horse Racing picture with George Raft. We went to the Palace after and had drinks and a talk quite a number of people there Vale wife [indecipherable] knew Millie at Echo. Shows of rain during the day.

FRIDAY 22
We got our work done Harry & I sat round the fire in the after noon reading Gwen & I played cards in the evening went round to bring Mum home from Joyce & Toms in the dark.

SATURDAY 23
My form arrived for my allowance book I had 1-3 & £1 12-6 to draw I did not feel so well today had a bit of a headache Harry bought home a £1’s worth of groceries. Joyce went into hospital

SUNDAY 24
Took Pamela & Gwen out for a walk went & saw Mum & Vera it poured with rain all the way home so for Joyce is the same.

[Page break]

SEPTEMBER, 1939

25 MONDAY
Joyce’s baby weighs 9lb 4ozs a lovely baby the biggest the hospital has had for a long while Tom is very pleased Mum is doing Her washed and some of Joyce’s
We had a fire in the long room Tom took his mother to the pictures.

26 TUESDAY
I did my washing & ironing played cards with Gwennie

27 WEDNESDAY
Altered a frock for mum made Pamela a petticoat to wear. We went to see Joyce & her baby at the Hospital the baby lovely Joyce feel a bit home sick poor kid Knitting her baby’s coat nearly finish. We had a roasting fire and a good programme on the wireless.

[Page break]

SEPT.-OCT., 1939

THURSDAY 28
Cold but sun is shining Aunt Nellie sent Mum a new coat Elsie knitted it fits a treat and [inserted] Joyce [/inserted] a pram cover in blue and a yellow set for her baby they have been busy
I drew my pension today but I did not do it
My linen chest arrived it is green & gold

FRIDAY 29
Mum & I got our work done. [deleted] the [/deleted] my ironing board arrived
I took Pamela down to see my mother she had bought Joyce’s baby a lovely Bonnet & wooly toy. Pamela a motor and me a birthday present.

SATURDAY 30
Mum & I got our work done and went out to the library In the afternoon Harry took Pamela and I to Southend and rigged her up and bought us an eiderdown & bedspread to match green for our anniversary today

SUNDAY-OCT. 1
I cooked the dinner Mum went to see Joyce. Vera came round in the afternoon with Marie and her Raymond. he is a little devil
We all had a game of cards in the evening.

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

2 MONDAY
Mum did her washing and some of Joyce’s. Milly & Frank sent me a lovely box of chocs. My mother bought me a Californian Poppy outfit powder & cream etc. Harry bought a lovely brooch.

3 TUESDAY
I did some of washing but it [inserted] rain [/inserted] all the morning I manage to dry & iron it. I took some laundry to the office and then saw Joyce’s baby Harry is come home early in the evening now
Joyce has come home from hospital this morning

4 WEDNESDAY
Mum is going round to Joyce’s every day until she is better the baby is very good and looks lovely [deleted] I popped round in the [/deleted]

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

THURSDAY 5
I did all the rooms out & Harry dug the gardens Pamela helped him in the mud Harry was home all day and so went sat round the fire and read, the wireless was good Joyce’s baby eyes are mattery she is quite worried Mum is busy.

FRIDAY 6
I did my work altered a skirt and pressed Joyce’s baby rigout. Went and drew my pension out on Friday then went to my mothers we went down to the beach Pamela enjoyed it had tea then went home the laundry came when I was out he put it in the shed.
We all had our baths I curled my hair up.

SATURDAY 7
It is very muggy this morning every where seems damp
I did my work & went out at 11 oclock saw the RAF men marching Harry came home with sore heels so we did not go out & I went round the corner and bought some bulbs.

SUNDAY 8
Sunday – not a very nice morning
Mum went round to Joyces and helped her all day Harry & I change the bathroom & reception room over they both look very nice

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

9 MONDAY
I did some washing but it rained all day never stopped I have not known such a day this year. I dried it indoors and lit both fires. Made Pamela two pinafores from Gwennie and a dress & coat for her doll, mum came home earlier to have a bath. The programme on the wireless is good

10 TUESDAY
I must not forget to go to the schools this afternoon for Pamela’s mask no tomorrow A-M ours is in group N-Z. I did the rest of my washing and ironing altered three of my skirts in the evening I am knitting a little coat for Pamela.
Cooking stew for tomorrow

11 WEDNESDAY
I put the dinner and dressed Pamela and went out up to the school but Pamela did not like the gas bag Came [deleted] bag [/deleted] back and called upon Elsie up to her eyes in work Coral is getting on lovely allways smiling
Gwennie made a lovely fire in the lounge Harry & I sat round it
Pouring heavens hard with rain.

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

THURSDAY 12
I must draw £1-12-6.
I have £2-12-0
£4-4-6 + 1 0 – 0 £4-14 6
Harry & I went to Southend in the morning changed the libraries & Harry bought himself a lovely watch £3-3-0 I went & paid the elect account and water rate bought some odds and ends in Woolworths I bussed home and got the dinner I felt very tired after dinner sun is shining but it is going to rain

FRIDAY 13
I did all my hoovering and dusting in the morning. Tea has gone up 1/2d Cooked dinner early and Stanley fetched Harry’s for him at work I went to my mother’s earlier this time so as to be home for Harry and the Laundry man “Chamberlain gave his answer yesterday to Hitlers “Peace Offers”. I don’t think the German people know the real truth the Nazis keep a lot from them telling them a lot of lies

SATURDAY 14
One German paper states that we supplied Mustard gas to Poland an excuse to use some on our soldiers.
The Royal Oak was sunk over 850lives are lost.

SUNDAY 15
Two French & one British ships were sunk all most to-gether Three U boats were sunk on Friday last It poured with rain alday so Joyce did not get her baby christen but we had the party just the same.

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

16 MONDAY
The sun is shining for a change to day Pamela is very amusing now in the mornings.
Mum did her washing
Harry Pamela & I went to Southend in the afternoon he took his watch back to R.A. Jones as the spring was slipping
I bought a new powder compact for my Coty Harry bought a new pr of gloves woollen with orange & green embroidery & a bottle of scent California Poppy

17 TUESDAY
I did my washing quite a lot Mum went out with Mr Jacomb The air raid warning went about 1-30pm 6 Bombers took off at Rochford they look magnificent Harry soon came home Pamela is quite excited about it all
I did my ironing in the afternoon & evening Harry repair a valve in mums set that was broken. I had a backache all the afternoon & evening listened to the wireless

18 WEDNESDAY
Mum went round to help Joyce this morning Harry & Tom went marching this morning I am writing this round a beautiful fire Gwen made and Pamela is worrying & jogging me all the while

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

THURSDAY 19
It was pouring with rain all the afternoon and morning just as we planned to go out I made some scones & a cake instead mum went round to help Joyce.
We went to the Astoria after dinner saw “Lucky Night” with Robert Taylor and Myrna Loy very good Had a game cards went we got home

FRIDAY 20
Mum went round to Joyces Gwennie took Pamela out and got the dinner for me I hoovered the place out Went and saw my mother in the afternoon went down the beach brought home some shells.

SATURDAY 21
Mum & I got our work done and went out shopping. Harry & I went to Southend in the afternoon and bought Pamela a little woolly coat and overalls I bought a new tooth brush We listened to band waggon

SUNDAY 22
Patricia Joyce Cole was christened at 2 oclock it was a lovely day after all the rain We had a nice game of cards. Agnes bought round some lovely apples she has got a rotten cold

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

23 MONDAY
Sun shining but misty, I heard the aeroplanes warming up the engines, I suppose just being prepared. I wondered what move Hitler will make now?

24 TUESDAY
I did my washing & ironing and washed my hair

25 WEDNESDAY
Last week of Vernons I am glad it is finished before Harry goes
The bulbs are coming up.

[Page break]

[Kia-Ora advertising]

[Page break]

MEMORANDA

[Page break]

OCTOBER, 1939

THURSDAY 26
I went to Southend only with Pam Harry went to RAF.
Change my libraries
Harry & I went to the pictures in the afternoon it was very dark when we came out

FRIDAY 27
I went to my mothers in the afternoon went went down to the sea front Pamela does enjoy herself. Had some tea just got home as Harry went back to work. Milly came down went to the doctors with mum then went to the Mascot I made Pamela two jumpers Harry & I went to bed early but Pamela cried several times

SATURDAY 28
Millie & Mum went to Southend in the morning We did not go out as it rained
Had a nice game of cards.
Frank came down they stayed

SUNDAY 29
I went out took Gwen & Pamela down to see my mother took some chrysanths
Frank & Millie went at 7 oclock it was pouring with raining
Joyce & Tom went to his mothers

[Page break]

OCT.-NOV., 1939

30 MONDAY
Mum did her washing so as to have nothing left to go round to Joyce.
Harry & I went to the Pictures saw I left my shopping in Woolworths I never got it back. lost my pretty purse

31 TUESDAY
I did my washing go it all done and my ironing getting thinks ready for tomorrow I am quite busy chopped & saw some wood and tidied the garden Harry found out he was deffinently he was going next Monday. Tom went this morning Joyce was upset.

1 NOV.-WEDNESDAY
Harry Pamela & I went up to Aunty Nellie for a few days to say goodbye, it was very dark going up in the tube Pamela thoroughly enjoyed it We had packed our case up full they were very please to see up Aunty is a bit upset at Harry going but still it is all in a life time Aunty has made us very comfortable Pamela went to sleep good.

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 2
We got up Pamela had to go out and see Aunty do the work when we had breakfast we did some shopping and saw Cousin Nellie & the children. In the afternoon we went to Felton and saw Vera and the children I feel very sorry for Author is not good to her at all Elsie & Jack came up and had a game of cards.

FRIDAY 3
We got up and had breakfast and Aunty came with us to Richmond to see us off Uncle went to work as usual We arrived home at 2-45pm Then Tom surprised us and came home on his six days leave Joyce was ever so pleased
So instead of Mum going round with Joyce she stopped at home

SATURDAY 4
There was not much work to do as mum did it yesterday We had a fire in the front room Harry spent it alone it is getting near for him to go

SUNDAY 5
Harry had his breakfast in bed we had our dinner early then Mum & Gwen Aggie went round to Joyce & Toms to tea Harry & I had tea by ourselves and the fire all the evening

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

6 MONDAY
Harry went away this morning he kissed every one goodbye Pamela know he is going on a Puff Puff.
Mum cannot get use to [deleted] of [/deleted] cooking for less
Mum & I did our washing together but I think I would rather do it by myself
We went round to Joyce & Toms while [deleted] she [/deleted] they went to the pictures Had a nice bath

7 TUESDAY
Mum & I did our ironing and work. In the afternoon went shopping and then pictures saw Jeanette Macdonald in Serenade”. Very good had my first letter from Harry wrote him one back

8 WEDNESDAY
Mum & I got the room for Joyce. Pamela rig outs arrived from Vernons 1 brown 1 green they look very nice
In the afternoon Mum Gwen, Pamela & I did some gardening We had our tea early It seems a long day without Harry
Mum & I played cards knitted & listened to the wireless very good Pamela & Gwen are Both sleeping with me

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 9
Received Pamela’s ration book
Poured with rain all the morning cleared up at dinner time Tom is going back this afternoon Joyce is getting ready to come round had another letter from Harry I went out on my bike to change my librarys [deleted bunbe [/deleted] met Bill he just as jolly, a Pilot Officer was killed over the aerodrome.

FRIDAY 10
Very misty above today Gwen took Pamela to Priory Park to feed the ducks Gwen posted my letter to Harry I took Pamela to my mothers in the afternoon we went down Chalkwell Av to the beach Pamela loves it all Had tea then came home before it got too dark I don’t feel very grand I have got a head-ache & sore throat and no Harry to hug.

SATURDAY 11
I did [inserted] not [/inserted] feel so good this morning then I Had a letter from Harry. In the afternoon as I was talking to Stan Harry came round the corner what a lovely surprise I did hug & kiss him I have. really missed him He had a nice bath

SUNDAY 12
It seem wonderful to have him with me We went for a walk in the morning round Rochford & Sutton Mum cooked a nice dinner had the afternoon to ourselves had a nice tea then went with him and saw him off at the station it was very dark

[Page break]

NOVEMBER,1939

13 MONDAY
Mum & Joyce did their washing I went out in the afternoon and took Pamela went to get my watch but it was not ready pity
Writing letter to Harry

14 TUESDAY
I did a lot of washing did my ironing in the evening and mending writing a letter to Harry dark out and spitting with rain Mum is out late at the pictures
Writing a letter to Harry.

15 WEDNESDAY
I got up earlier this morning Joyce went to hospital
Mum is not feeling so well this morning
Took Pamela & Gwen into Priory Park very nice out.
Writing letter to Harry

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 16
Rain all the morning I took Pamela out in the afternoon drew my allowance and had Pamela’s hair cut looks nice handed in Green’s order.
Wrote another letter to Harry
read my library
very good
Had a nice bath.

FRIDAY 17
No to bad today for weather dusted my bedroom. done the bathroom mended the electric fire sawed some logs and tinded the coal shed. Went down to my mothers and we went do to the beach Pamela did enjoyed herself had a nice when we got home back home mum had bought Pamela another doll & me a ashes sifter. Writing to Harry listen to the wireless Tom came home this after.

SATURDAY 18
We got our work done & cooked a big dinner Joyce & Tom went to the pictures and I did a bit of shopping in Southend I had two letters from Harry today It poured with rain I got my feet wet

SUNDAY 19
Wind blowing like a gale today
Tom went at 4 p.m. Pamela & Gwen went for a walk and met Agnes
We had a nice game of [deleted] gam [/deleted] cards I won I am writing to Harry.

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

20 MONDAY
Mum & Joyce did their washing

21 TUESDAY
I did my washing but it never got dry so I did some knitting and wrote a letter to Harry

22 WEDNESDAY
I went out during the morning Sun is shining but it is cold. Called on Elsie her baby is lovely. A german plane came over they got it down We went down to see my mother but did not stop long it soon gets dark. Did a lot of knitting at 10 oclock we had an air raid over head it was soon over.

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 23
Hoovered all the rooms rubbed off the pencil marks off the wall in the hall went to register out registration books and change my libraries and did some shopping. It rained all the time. I read my library during the evening and then had a lovely bath put scent in and made my face up to be nice for Harry I wish he was home. Had a letter from him. the man put in a new pane of glass.

FRIDAY 24
A funny day today it does not know wether to rain or dry up I put the net curtains up again at the door and the long room they do look nice polished up every where and mopped and dusted Joyce is trying to get to see Tom.
Harry is coming home today about 7p.m. I have made myself up ready for him he arrived at 6-20pm. and he did look well oh boy did I hug him

SATURDAY 25
It was very cold and rained a bit, we went to the pictures Garon’s saw “Blondes”

SUNDAY 26
We all spent the day indoors
Harry had a nice bath Mum & I cooked the dinner Joyce & Tom were on their own for a while he went in the evening we saw him off.

[Page break]

NOVEMBER, 1939

27 MONDAY
It poured with rain Harry & I got up at 6-15 AM. I cooked his breakfast and pack his case for him
I fixed the blinds up much better now and the kitchen.

28 TUESDAY
My mother in law paid me the final 2/-. I did my washing and did my ironing not so much today thank goodness wrote to Harry and listened to the wireless.

29 WEDNESDAY
I did the front garden it looks much better now but it made me tired. I went to my mothers in the afternoon we went down Chalkwell Av. on the beach very windy. Went home had tea then went on to my home Pamela enjoyed herself. Writing a letter to Harry. Knitting vest for Pamela Having a bath tonight.

[Page break]

NOV.-DEC., 1939

THURSDAY 30
Drisled with rain all day I went down to Southend and paid my rates and met Mrs Cole and George he is working in the experimental dept. It soon got dark at 4-30pm I am writing to Harry.

FRIDAY DEC. 1
Made the Xmas puddings today We trimmed one another’s neck. I had a nice letter from Harry he is keeping fine. Russia & Finland are at war. I shall be going to the pictures in the evening very blowy I went to the Astoria very good ‘Man of Conquest’ Richard Dix had to walk all the way home.

SATURDAY 2
Weather better today went out and got the dinner Cook the Xmas puddings do they smell good. Bought a nice new pair of brown shoes. Writing to Harry send of his books.

SUNDAY 3
Very nice morning and we went down to my mothers to dinner and walked along the front Sun shone but windy. We came home at dark made up a nice fire in the kitchen had a game of cards It poured heavens hard with rain Mum & Joyce got soaked

[Page break]

DECEMBER, 1939

4 MONDAY
Looked better this morning after last night rain We cooked out Sundays dinner very nice I took Pamela to Southend and went to the Building Society had a long talk with the manager. Went to the pictures saw “Lion has Wings” [deleted] Wk [/deleted] Wore my new shoes not bad

5 TUESDAY
I did my washing today very cold. Pamela is being very good today she does like going out with Gwennie.
Mum paid me her second 2/- I finished Pamelas second vest they look very nice.
Did my ironing and mending
Wrote to Harry.

6 WEDNESDAY
Bitterly cold today I went out for a while saw Elsie and did a bit of shopping Went to see Lily Everly with Elsie came home a dark had tea and put Pamela to bed
Not so well to day though I did not have a back ache.
Writing to Harry.

[Page break]

DECEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 7
Very foggy but I went out in the afternoon and did quite a lot shopping met Mrs Jacomb & Aggie the fog cleared at 3 o’clock
Had a game of cards and wrote a letter to Harry sending the standard

FRIDAY 8
It poured with rain all day so I did not go out. lit the fire in the front room. Wrote a letter to Harry had a game of cards. Ate some dates Mum & Gwen had a bath.

SATURDAY 9
Did my work and took Pamela to Eastwood Schools and got her gas mask she like it on her self it is red mickey mouse type

SUNDAY 10
Mum took Pamela out for an airing saw Mrs Winch. I cooked nice dinner and made a cake played cards in the evening and read my library.

[Page break]

DECEMBER, 1939

11 MONDAY
Rather foggy today so I did not go out making Gwen a dress and tried to mend the lamp standard and took down the black out in the bedroom. I have put ap a board of ply wood.
had a nice letter from Harry he is trying to come home this weekend its will be grand to see him again

12 TUESDAY
It is a funny kind of a day What wind there is is bitterly cold and the washing is not drying so I am trying to put it round the chimney. The International station is pretty good this afternoon
Mum paid me another 2/-.

13 WEDNESDAY
Mum & Joyce did their washing Gwen Pamela & I went to see Mrs Cole we had tea there Just got in at dark.

[Page break]

DECEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 14
We did the bedrooms today Went to Southend with Elsie it soon got dark

FRIDAY 15
Getting everything ready for Harry my darling husband is coming home this evening I put the decorations up and as I finished he knocked on the door was I happy to see him Pamela & Gwennie slept in the front room

SATURDAY 16
Harry & I went for a walk and bought the dinner home we went to Southend in the afternoon met some of his pals and then had a nice tea went to the Astoria saw “Cheer Boys Cheer” Nova Pilbeam Doctor Kildare

SUNDAY 17
We went over to Millies for the day had a nice time we walk to Southend and back.

[Page break]

DECEMBER, 1939

18 MONDAY
Harry & I over slept this morning but he soon got dressed and went I shall be seeing him again on Thursday
I went to Southend in the afternoon with Elsie and bought Coral a pair of blue slippers and Harry an Air Force cigarette case.
Mum went to stay with Mrs Jacomb till tomorrow Joyce and I played cards
The war news is good. Graf Spee is scuttled

19 TUESDAY
I did my washing but it is not drying I am draping it round the chimney I fell lost this afternoon but I have quite a lot I could do.

20 WEDNESDAY
We did our Bedrooms today so as to get done for Xmas and Harry is coming home tomorrow Went down to my mothers in the afternoon it poured with rain all the time Mum was very pleased to see us and gave us a nice time Bought some Xmas Cards and sent them off having a bath and curling up my hair

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DECEMBER, 1939

THURSDAY 21
We finished our work for the week and I went to Southend in the afternoon and got some more shopping for Xmas and rushed back Harry arrived 1/2 hr later it turned very cold Oh boy do Harry & I love one another, the gas fire is a treat in our bedroom. Harry bought me a lovely manicure set I am really resolved to stop bitting my nails he does wish it so.
I bought him a lovely cigarette case.

FRIDAY 22
Harry has his breakfast in bed and got up at 10 went down to the Building Society and settled everything up We spent the afternoon round the fire and, went to the pictures in the evening saw ‘Second Fiddle’ Tyrone Powell and Under Cover Doctor both very good. Harry bought Pamela a lovely baby doll red pair of slippers and two books she is a lucky girl, Harry bought his mother a fountain pen.

SATURDAY 23
I did a lot of work this morning quite busy Harry made a nice fire and Mum went to South- It was still frosty and very foggy We went out in the afternoon and evening had a nice time at the Palace Hotel got home 12-15pm. nearly drunk.

SUNDAY 24
We cooked our Xmas dinner and boy it was good we slept in the afternoon and it was so nice to be with my darling husband we played cards in the evening Gwennie went home to her mothers for Xmas.

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DECEMBER, 1939

25 MONDAY
Mum & I cooked a piece of pork and my Xmas pudding was good for Sunday’s dinner.
We all went down to my mothers for dinner today she cook a great big Turkey it was good Pamela thoroughly enjoyed herself they bought her a woolly dress and yellow silk pinafore a concertina and a little dolly. We went home about 11-30pm.

26 TUESDAY
We had cold pork and green and potatoes it was good Mr Robinson gave me a 1/2 pint of cream for a Xmas box. In the evening Harry cleaned his boots and buttons and had a bath we talked a long while in bed and Joyce woke us up at 6-10 in the morning. I cooked his breakfast and we talked a while in the kitchenette

27 WEDNESDAY
We put the gas fire on it made the room very warm then I dress and went with Harry to the bus stop the North wind has sprung up and was freezing we waited 5 mins. Then the bus came along and we said goodbye perhaps I shall see him again soon but it may be a long time to come we he goes far away but I hope he comes back soon. I got my work done and mum & I went to Southend we nearly froze coming home so we decided not to go to the pictures but sit around the fire

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DECEMBER 1939

THURSDAY 28
Very cold this morning mum & Joyce did their washing It snowed in the afternoon so I did not go out we stopped in the kitchen Aggie brought Gwennie home. She is not feeling any to well.

FRIDAY 29
A very nice morning the snow laided every where it looked a picture Tom Pamela and Gwennie played in the snow. I went to Southend in the afternoon and bought another pair if shoes and saw Tickett and went to the Electric Co. Building Society, Woolworths it was not so cold today. We we got home we played cards. Had a letter from Harry.

SATURDAY 30
The wind is bitterly cold their water froze next door must watch ours. did a bit of washing it got dry. I went out in the afternoon to post Harry’s letter and bought so sweets they are dear now,

SUNDAY 31
Well here endeth the last day in this diary it is still very cold out no pleasure in walking anywhere. Here is wishing for peace and a bright prosperous new year and my Harry home for good how I love him and miss him. I have written every day.

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MEMORANDA

On Pamela’s 1st birthday Harry & I had invited 21 persons we all had a jolly good time plenty to eat & drink we started at 4-30 pm. broke up at 3-30 AM.
Pamela had some lovely presents Her daddy bought her a box of chocs and birth day cake. Pamela has done very well for she can almost run we hope she will always be lucky and clever forward and lovely.

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Mr & Mrs Cole

60 Byre Dr

Prittlewell

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Mr Billy & Mrs Elsie Hayns.

“Kia-Ora”

Alton Gardens

Prittlewell

[Deleted]Mr & Mrs Sweeting

16 Artiel Rd

Eastwood. [/deleted]

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743047 L.A.C. REDGRAVE H.C. R.A.F.

ROOM 124 D FLIGHT

NO 2 SQUADRON

NO4. I.T.W. R.A.F.

SACKVILLE HOTEL

BEXHILL on Sea.

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Mrs Sherwood

459 Fairfax Dr

W.

Mrs Sweeting

16 Artiel Rd

Eastwood

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Baker 2-4d.
Greengrocer 1-5d.
Butcher 2-3
Milkman 5-8 1/4
Greens Boy 4-3 1/2
Southend Shop 4-7 1/2
Newspaper 8d

[Calculations]

Monday 6d 1d 8d + 2 1/2

A.W. MASON Author of
Four Feathers.

Dec. 4 [calculations]

1oz grey wool.
Building Society

Cakes.

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