Pièce 135 - Letter from Robert Carr Bosanquet to R. C. Trevelyan

British School, Athens. - Has just heard the news of Trevy's engagement; wishes him happiness and 'πολλά έτη' [many years]', which is the 'seasonable greeting' for New Year's Day here in Athens today. Asks when the wedding will be, and whether he will have time to choose a present when he returns in July. Much enjoyed seeing all the Trevelyans at Wallington last summer; heard that the 'subsequent ride through north Northumberland was a success'. The [Second Boer] War is 'hateful'; only gets 'scanty, inaccurate or belated' news here; has three first cousins at the front and two more going out with the Northumberland Yeomanry (three Carrs, who are brothers, and two Carr-Ellisons). 'Our county has behaved splendidly; it recalls the good old days of Flodden or Chevy Chase to read of gentleman farmers offering themselves with horse & equipment to fight their country's battles'. Asks if Trevy has published anything lately. Got [Reginald] Rankin's "Nibelungen Ring' recently; parts are 'first-rate'. Rankin has 'deserted bride, baby & constituency to join 'Remington's Scouts' [sic: Rimington's Guides]. Would like to see Trevy here; encourages him to consider Greece for his next journey.