Pièce 27 - Letter from Edwin Montagu to Venetia Stanley

Archerfield House, Dirleton.—Is disappointed that he just missed her and wishes she were there, though it is a good party. Is concerned by the dangers that women’s suffrage presents for the Prime Minister. Discusses his planned movements.

This is a reply to A1/23.

TRANSCRIPT:

Archerfield House, Dirleton, Scotland

27. 12. 1911

My dear Venetia

Very many thanks for your most welcome letter. I can assure you I was properly furious when I realised that I had stupidly just missed you.

I want you now very much indeed. That is literally true. But there is a more urgent negative quality which you possess that makes my longing for you more strident than all your positive ones. It is that you dont play golf {2}. I am rather lonely! Not that I’m not enjoying myself hugely but I want company for my now solitary walks to the sea while everybody chases golf balls and talks about them.

Its a good party, {3} the Prime as you say in the very best form (but getting oh so venerable) Micky the most amusing man I know, Reggie Farrer who belongs to the Paul and Jones category so far as I am concerned, Bongie, Edgar Vincent, old Elwes etc etc.

I am rather unhappy about woman’s suffrage despite my belief in it—because I care for the Prime more than all and I think he must beware.

I hope to be with you on the 3rd {3}. I must go to London on the first. Will you make it all right with Lady Sheffield. I am sorry to miss the ball.

Please be prepared to listen to lots I have to say to you. I’m full of outpourings that want a victim.

Yrs
Edwin S. Montagu

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{1} Reading uncertain.

{2} Archerfield possessed a private nine-hole golf course.

{3} Comma supplied.

{4} Perhaps Montagu intended to underline ‘3rd’ rather than, or as well as, ‘the’.