Item 27 - Letter from Clemence Housman to N. V. H. Symons

2 sheets

Longmeadow, Street.—Returns a portrait. Asks about his new home, and describes Coronation festivities at Street and Shillingford. Discusses her own and Laurence’s health.

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Transcript

Longmeadow | Street
June 8th 1953

My dear Jerry

I have just come across the enclosed which you had asked me to return. So sorry I omitted it before, as you think it so remarkably like your Mother. But I just cannot see it except perhaps a bit like her smile, yet L. is inclined to agree with you. I do so want to know where you are, whether the move to the new home has been effected, and The Mount House sold satisfactorily. I mourne† that my memory of it must become an empty shell without you and Cicely there enjoying the improvements you had made to render it such a fair and well appointed home. I hope you will send me snap shots of the new abode, for of course I cannot visualize it at present. I wonder where you have been for Coronation festivities, for no doubt in either place you have been raked in as an efficient organizer. Street was not adventurous. A baloon† race and a good Concert were items, and the factory did well with many-coloured flood lighting very beautiful on the trees round about. Last week Gerald, Jay, {1} and Nicola came over. At Shillingford they celebrated with a pig roasted whole. Gerald gave the pig, and his help in the roasting. They got instruction from an expert within reach who yearly roasts a deer, and made a spit with a wheel to turn, and lots of wood was contributed, but only partial success resulted, for a strong wind was unpropitious so that the heat was not steady. However half roasted chunks were cut off and distributed to be finished in home ovens. Gerald brought in one which we had for Sunday dinner, and very good it was. Nicola is a beauty—such a lovely colour. She is now of the age to be rather a handful, wanting to get her hands into everything—cooking or coals. L. had a bad fall breaking two ribs some weeks ago. Otherwise he is all right, but for failing memory. My sight and hearing are going, and I am very tottery, but can still do household chores and gardening. Do write soon. You must have so much to tell. Much love to you and Cicely

Ever your affectionate
Aunt Clem.

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‘R. 12.vi.53’, indicating the date of reply, has been added at the head in pencil. Most of the marks printed as full stops resemble short dashes.

{1} Reading uncertain.

† Sic.

This description was created by A. C. Green in 2023.