Item 148 - Letter from Venetia Stanley to Edwin Montagu

The British Hospital, Hotel Bellevue, Wimereux.—Has received his letter. Discusses the arrangements for her return to England, and her colleagues’ reactions to the news of her engagement. Discusses the date of the wedding and asks whether he has heard from her father. Has started reading Joseph’s book.

(Dated Tuesday.)

TRANSCRIPT:

The British Hospital, Hotel Bellevue, Wimereux
Tuesday night.

Darling I’ve just got your letter. Saturday early is the latest that I’ll come and I’ll try and arrange Friday, but only by the 2nd boat.

Lady N. told everyone here I was leaving to be married, they are all interested! Monica had already heard from her mother that it was almost certain. I am getting quite used to saying now that I’m going to be married, but all the same I’m sorry they know, as I hate the “engaged” feel-ing. It would be dreadful if you were here. Once I’m married all that stops, but I’ve always thought engaged people supremely ridiculous.

Friday is generally thought unlucky, but I dont mind that, & I couldnt be married on Sunday for the same reason that you cant Saturday. So lets make it the 23rd. Then if you have to be back to do some work during the next week before we go to Penrhos it gives us an extra day.

Have you heard from father. I havent yet, but I dont think it was possible for me to.

I’ve just started on Josephs book. I think I’m rather good at it, I hope he wont expect a character sketch of Moses or anything of the kind.

Your Brighton sounds great fun. But not at all in keeping with your very severe letter about closing the Ritz & Carlton.

Poor Diana.

Has she ever spoken to you about your marriage. I hope she wont wash you on account of it. I nearly told Conrad this afternoon. I think I will when I lunch on Thursday with him

Love
V.

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Written in pencil.