P-1961 Europe Trip

Arrived at the Dorset about 1:15 PM after a trip to the peir with our luggage. All taxi men in New York are valuable but we picked the most valuable of the all. Quite entertaining in fact.

Ate dinner at a little restaurant on W. 55th Street. Exceptionally good cuisine.

After dinner we strolled up 5th Avenue and visited St. Thomas Episcopal Church and St. Matthews. Did a bit of window shopping but one can see the counterparts of these 5th Ave. styles in any moderate dress shop.

April 5th, 1961

N.Y. and aboard Queen Mary
Fair-occasional cloudiness

Florence Taylor now lives in N.Y. so I rang her up. Later she came to see use off, bringing a bottle of champagne for a Bon Voyage gift. Helen joined us for breakfast at the Dorset and come down, also, to see us off.

The last time I was aboard the Queen Mary was some 7-8 yrs. ago and I had forgotten what a wonderful ship she is. Our cabin is adequate-in fact fairly comfortable and after we had complied with the usual formalities, filling out our declaration forms, etc., we wondered about the ship, finally landing atop the sun deck where we lay in our chairs for about an hour, sunning ourselves.

The meals on the ship are excellent and I am afraid it will be hard on Put's waistline, be he has been warned and is paying no heed-so far!

Letters from Jim and the Moncures when we arrived aboard. Very nice-especially Jim's-which made us feel quite at home.

People on board seem to be well behaved with the few exceptions one finds anywhere.

April 6th, 1961

Queen Mary
Rough sea, moderate to heavy swell Cloudy-Milder WNW wind

Today we reported to the immigration inspector with our passports. Took a chance on the Captain's Tote for the day (mileage in 24 hrs) and picked the correct number of miles. Got 1 pound note, 2 half crowns and 2 shillings all of which took me a little time to figure out. The initial investment was 35¢, so it was a good profit $3.43.

Wonderful entertainment this evening in the Smoking Room-International Dances and a good vocalist. A game of bingo with very fine stakes.

Ervin on the Queen Mary

Mary on the Queen Mary

April 7th, 1961

Queen Mary
near westerly gale rough sea, heavy swells cloudy-gusts of rain, rougher than it has been

Today I passed in a quiz called "Which is Which" in which a familiar thing must be matched up with one of two meanings. The were 20 questions and imagine my surprise to find my name listed as winner. The food continues very good, and the service and attention given everywhere on board is excellent.

We take salt water baths rinsing off with fresh water from a small tub. It is most invigorating and almost as good as a swim in the ocean. Met a very interesting person* who had photos of Leeds castle in Maidstone. She lives in one of the lodges and has charge of the Castle while her husband is the caterer. She has been in the Bahamas at the residence there of her employer and had a vast fund of interesting experiences. She invited us to visit her and go through Leeds castle. It is one of three castles left in England with the original water moat + draw bridge.

*Mrs. Marjorie Borret

April 8th, 1961

Queen Mary
Sunny and windy aboard WSW gale, very rough sea, very heavy swell

Lay in our deck chairs a good portion of the day.

Played a little shuffle board. Visited the ship's laundry where there is every facility for washing and ironing. Got well caught up on our laundry. A rainbow in the spray has been following us for days. Very lovely!

Much entertainment in the smoking room evenings. Cabaret, music and bingo. Won over 8 L at bingo and was quite thrilled.

April 9th, 1961

on-board Queen Mary
Windy-sunny-showery in afternoon and evening. SW gale moderating rough sea, heavy swell moderately

Mass at 9:30 am in the 1st class lounge.

Had a most difficult ship quiz for the day in which we matched up riddles against surnames in the passenger list. I knew I had several wrong but passed it in anyway, and to my delight found I was winner again. Received a beautiful real leather manicure case completely fitted. Attended cabaret and bingo after dinner. Afternoon on the sun deck.

April 10th, 1961

Abd Queen Mary
Cloudy-Mild-Showery

Docked at Cherbourg at about 8:30 AM. Thrilled to see the coastline of France as we came in. After breakfast we were permitted to leave the ship and go exploring. Most of the people walked but we took a taxi about the city. Another passenger asked if he could join us and he spoke very good French was able to interpret much from the driver that we might have missed. Went up on Fort Roule 107 meters high and looked over Cherbourg.

Saw the Musee de Liberation. Thought we would be wrecked going down the steep pitches with the driver gesturing with both hands off the wheel. Fort Roule was the site of fierce fighting during the 2nd WW, 35000 Germans were trapped on the Peninsula and the Eng + Am's bombed it unceasingly for 5 days.

Our taxi driver told us the the Germans had headquarters in Cherbourg for two years prior to the outbreak of the war.

Frenzy of packing. We will go through customs about 9:00 pm. Will call Jim from Southampton. We are now in sight of the English coast.*

Docked at Southampton and was through customs by 11 pm. Boat train very comfortable. Much prefer the English system of side cars to our American aisle trains. "Put" and I had train compartment to ourselves and were able to relax. Jim was waiting with the car, and the ride to Brentwood was very comfortable.

Meadow House where Jim and Ann live with Clarissa (age 5) is charming with a gracious, hospitable atmosphere, reflecting its occupants. Had tea and went to bed about 3 a.m. I do so like the English system of lavatory and bath separate, with basin and running water in the room.

Southampton

Brentwood

Meadow House, Brentwood

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Meadow House, Brentwood

Ervin and Clarissa at Meadow House

Mary and Clarissa at Meadow House

Mary at Meadow House

Ann and Mary at Meadow House

April 11th, 1961

Meadow House, Cornsland, Brentwood, Essex, Eng.
Clear, Mild Sunny

Meadow House is even more charming by daylight. The garden is perfectly delightful and I plan to describe it more fully in my journal. Took Clarissa for a walk in the park. We had a wonderful time with her, - a bright and very attractive little person-and enjoyed getting acquainted.

Dad went out in the afternoon exploring the countryside. Got to Ockendon, a nearby town and saw a church built in 1326, the original door is Norman and still in good condition. He also saw the farm from which they took the merino sheep to Australia with which to start their herds.

April 12th, 1961

Meadow House, Cornsland, Brentwood, Essex
Cloudy-raw

Took the train to London to explore London Tower which took us most of the day. Had lunch at the Tower Restaurant. It was our first good view of the Thames which it would be unwise to compare with any of America's rivers. What it lacks in cleanliness and beauty is amply made up for in richness of history and tradition. At the Tower of London was saw so much that one small book could not encompass it; The Queens' House where those who were condemned spent their last days; The place where the little Prices were murdered by their wicked uncle; St. John's Chapel where the knights kept all-night vigils; and where the Archbishop of Canterbury was murdered at the alter, and Mary Tudor was betrothed to Phillip II of Spain. Beauchamp Tower is another interesting place. The signature of Robert Dudley is one of many interesting ones carved at the entrance, when he was imprisoned there. He later became Earl of Leicester and Elizabeth's favorite. Around the fireplace are many inscriptions among them one by Arundel 6/22/1587.

The Bloody Tower was built by Henry III and the tower was added over it in the reign of Richard II. Sir Walter Raleigh was one of the many imprisoned here. Here he wrote his History of the World during the long imprisonment.

Also saw Green-site of execution of Anne Boleyn and others.

Tower Bridge, London

London Bridge, London

Tower of London, London

American Embassy, London

Big Ben, London

Mary at the Victoria Monument, London

Clarance House, London

April 13th, 1961

Meadow House
Fair-mild

Visited Brentwood proper this a.m. Went to Launderette to do some cloths and shopped in a cute little pastry shop where we bought tarts to bring home to Ann. This afternoon Dad went by bus to Chelmsford where he explored the place as is his wont and pleasure. Saw an old windmill which had been restored. Visited the fish market and saw some fresh Scotch salmon that made his mouth water, but at 11 shillings a lb. which soon dried up his mouth from the price angle.

Visited Ann's parents for a cocktail hour before dinner tonight. Very pleasant.

April 14th, 1961

Meadow House/London/Bexhill
Rainy in a.m. Clearing and sunny later in the day.

Came up to London today from Brentwood. Check our bags at the station and took the underground from Liverpool St. to Westminster. Went through St. Margaret's Church, the original parish church of the abbey. Foundations laid in 1000. About 200 years ago, it was separated from Westminster Abbey. Of course, to a Roman Catholic, all has a familiar and understandable air. Saw burial places of Eliz I, Mary Stewart, James I, and all the other notables. Also, the coronation chair.

Had a lovely lunch at St. Stephens Restaurant opposite the Houses of Parliament but did not go through as we had to meet Peter at 2:30 pm. Got to the Great Eastern Hotel in good time to connect with Peter and drive down to Bexhill. He has a lovely new Jaguar which rides easily and has a speed capacity of around 130 miles per hour.

The ride down into Sussex and Kent is beautiful. The rolling landscape is much like Western Massachusetts. We stopped at an ancient castle knoll containing 365 rooms and 52 staircases, 7 courtyards. As it takes an hour plus to go through we just visited the courtyards and Great Hall. The castle dates from the time of King John 1199-1216. The Duchess of Windsor met her Edward there at some sort of entertainment, Kay and Peter have a lovely spacious home in Bexhill. There is an air of family living which is very comfortable and easy. It was a delight to see them all, and we spent most of the time getting acquainted all over again. The sea is only a few minutes walk from their home.

After a lovely dinner, we gathered in the drawing room for conversation and a bit of television.

The boys were pleased with the games we brought them, and James and I had a great time playing concentration. Kay promises me an Old Castle for tomorrow.

Bexhill

Bodian Castle

April 15th, 1961

Bexhill, Sussex, England
Sunny-mild

This morning Peter drove us to Hasting (site of the battle of Hastings) where we watched Charles and James play cricket at the Central Cricket Ground. Then we explored Hastings Castle, Situated on a high point over-looking the Sea (Eng. Channel). The castle was built by Wm. the Conqueror in the year 1067 or 68 but its dungeons and cells were built far back in antiquity. The Whispering dungeon is a place where prisoners were tortured and by some quality of the sandstone, whispers from the victims in the torture cells were transmitted to the guards whose purpose it was to listen. In one of the cell walls is a carving of a horse done by some Saxon at the beginning or near the beginning of time.*

This afternoon Kay and I with Robert and Charles went over to Egerton Park where the two boys were given a tennis lesson. Dad and Peter went to play golf.

Planned to visit a pub tonight but everyone tired, so we shall postpone it for another time.

*In the castle of Hastings there is the site of the high alter at which Thomas Becket said Mass. He was at the Castle for about two years and Roman Catholics make pilgrimages to this holy place.

Charles and James Cricket Match

April 16th, 1961

Bexhill, Sussex, England
Cloudy in the a.m. turning sunny

We went to Mass this morning at the church of Magdalen in Bexhill. It was an ancient stone edifice with the pulpit on the side aisle of the church instead of in front as are ours. Otherwise, aside from the architecture, one might be in an American church. This is understandable when one reflects upon the antiquity of Roman Catholicism and its unchanging pattern. We strolled home admiring the little English gardens. In one there was a tablet which read something like this:

In the sun is the pardon of God.

In the song of the birds is His mirth

You are nearer God's heart in a garden

Than in any place else on earth.

Dad went with Peter to the Cricket Club before noon dinner, and the boys and I went down to the shore. The sea was calm and lovely and the air bracing. This afternoon we set out on an exploration on a very grand scale. First we went to Eastbourne, a place by the sea with 3 promenades on graduating terraces and a profusion of flowers in formal beds almost unavailable for beauty. Visited Pevensey Castle on the Pevensey marshes. The marshes on which Hitler planned to come down. The Castle was built by the Romans as a fortification, and the ruins of the chapel show the font and Saxon stone with a Saxon symbol carved on it. Following this we tramped the Sussex Downs. Extending for some 20 miles, they roll away into the blue distance with grass as short and green as any lawn. They tell us the chalk in the soil keeps the grass as short as though it had been mowed. At Bleachy Head we saw our first of the famous white Chalk Cliffs. Returning we stopped by the sea at Burling___ for our tea, served with heavenly melt-in-the mouth scones. In Hooe, a tiny village outside Bexhill we visited our first pub. It was all we imagined, with a cozy fire and gleaming bottles reflecting the light. Had a chandy, a drink made of 1/2 ginger ale and 1/2 beer. Dad had light beer and Kay the same as I, and Peter the same as Dad. They served us delicious out-sized sausage on a toothpick, crisped to a lovely brown and with a flavor impossible to describe. The name of the pub is Tamlin's Lamb Inn and the swinging sign had a picture of a little white lamb gamboling on the green. I am sure no "Mary" ever had a prettier lamb. The pub building dates from 1520 and is in remarkably good condition. People were quiet voiced and orderly. The young crowd was just coming in as we left.

April 17th, 1961

St. Norberts Bexhill, Sussex
Cloudy-Cool

This morning Peter and the boys demonstrated the fewer points of cricket to us. They have a small practice field in the garden. Dad and I took a long walk into Bexhill and did a little shopping. Visited St. Peter's Church (High Church) in Bexhill. It was consecrated in 772 and the deed of conveyance in the entrance, by Affa, King of the English, gives in ancient language, the rights of conveyance. There is also, in a glass case, the Stone of Bexhill- made of a sandstone not found in Sussex and thought to be brought by St. Wilfrith where he came to convert the Saxons. It has Saxon carvings upon it and is a thing of great antiquity. It is thought to be a relic, (possibly the covering to a saint's tomb.) which, until 800 or so was necessary in the R.C. church for the consecration of a church. Today Joan came with her children (2 of the 3 of them) for lunch. Later her husband came down to join her, have tea, and bring her home. Peter has gone to London to stay at their apt in the Mews. Joan's husband is a busy doctor and it was very gracious of him to take time from his work to meet us. Supper before the fire in the drawing room tonight.

April 18th, 1961

St. Norberts Bexhill
Sunny, mild

This morning Dad and I set out for a long walk on the promenade and a little shopping in the store section. Even their larger stores have an old world atmosphere, and a sense of crowdedness and hodgepodge. This afternoon we went back to Hastings Castle for some pictures as Dad did his camera on our first visit. We went down by the shore where the fishing vessels were coming in, and bought some nice fresh plaice for supper. Tomorrow we go to Brighton and will send a postcard to Grampy Cox from his old stomping grounds. Did a bit sewing for Kay today.

Hastings

Mary at Hastings Castle

April 19th, 1961

St Norbert's Bexhill, England
Raw and Cloudy

Jim called this a.m. to see if we planned to come back to Essex this weekend. Said they were counting on us. We assured him that we were. The boys left today for London. Suzanne, the maid, went with them to take care of them at their apt. in the mews. They will be at the famous cricket field at Lords for three days, learning the finer points of the game. Dad and I went to Brighton and had a wonderful promenade on the sea front and a very nice dinner. Bought a little leather change purse for Grampy Cox with the name of Brighton in gold letters upon it. He will be pleased.

Brighton promenade

April 20th, 1961

St Norbert's Bexhill Sussex England
Raw, cold, over-cast

Down to the sea with Robert this morning. Tide out and the three of us were able to walk far out over the sand looking for shells. I left Dad and Robert and came back early to write some letters. This afternoon Dad went to Bexhill to get his hair cut. Three shillings for a hair cut that would cost $1.50 in Delaware, even (in places) a $1.75. Mandy, the fox terrier had her puppies last night. Three males and a female. She had been mated with a thoroughbred, but the puppies turned out to be mongrels. I suspect Labrador Retrievers in part. Tomorrow we go to Essex to stay a but more with Anne and Jim.

April 21st, 1961

Bexhill and Meadow House Brentwood
Clear, Sunny, Cool

Down to the beach at Bexhill with Dad and Robert. A beautiful day, one of the best we've had in Eng. Taxi came at 2:05 to take us to the RR station for the trip to London. London carriage very comfortable and had tea and toast brought to us en route. Took a taxi across the city from Victoria Station to Liverpool Street, and passed by Buckingham Palace, through Trafalgar Sq. + Piccadilly Circus and by many other interesting points. Got to Meadow House in good time for dinner. Very nice to see them all again. Clarissa waiting anxiously for us.

April 22nd, 1961

Meadow House Essex
Rainy, intermittent sun

A quiet day. Went down to the launderette in the moving and got caught up on our laundry. Ironed them all today and we are quite up to date on fresh cloths. Jim had a tooth out which required dental surgery, so we decided, because of this, and because of the weather to rest in the afternoon. Enjoyed an evening of television and conversation. News came in that a state of emergency had been declared in France, and we are awaiting more news today and tomorrow to determine whether it will be wise to go there this coming week.

I believe the reason for the state of emergency was the Algiers putsch, a failed coup d'etat in France.

April 23rd, 1961

Meadow House Essex
Cloudy in A.M. Fair in PM

Went to church this morning to a little old place in Essex. After Mass, we set out to drive about the Essex countryside. Visited one of the oldest churches in Eng. about 900 in Greensted.* Made of logs and a miracle of preservation. Then drove to Chiqwell to have dinner at the Kings Head-the inn made famous in Dickens' "Barnaby Rudge". Dickens stayed here when he wrote the book, and called it the Maypole in his novel. Entertaining atmosphere. Here were held the Quarterly Courts in Pre-Elizabethan and Elizabethan days. Built about 15th cent. Later visited an Old Saxon-Norman church dating from 1154.

*Bones of St Edmonds rested here in 1013 on the way to his resting place in Bury St Edmonds

Parliament Building and Big Ben, London

April 24th, 1961

Meadow House
Sunny-Mild-Showery in London

Went down to Brentwood center to get my hair done. Very reasonable. Paid 1/3 of what it costs in Delaware. Very troubled times in Paris, so we went up to London to the AAA to find out about our going there this week. So far all planes are flying in and out and the man in the AAA seemed to think it would be safe to go. Dad has about made up his mind to make the trip and I can't very well desert him. While in London went to Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. Attending a session in the House of Commons - very dry and uninteresting. Had high tea at St. Stephens, the place we had dinner on the day we met Peter to go down to Bexhill.

Royal Academy of Arts, London

April 25th, 1961

Meadow House Brentwood
Cloudy - some rain

This morning we got an early start to London and purchased our Boat Train tickets for Calais. Reading "London, Dover, Calais" on the tickets made us think of "A Tail of Two Cities" Did some shopping in London. A darling dress and coat for Carol Ann, and some linen tea towels and a tea cloth for various people. Did not wish to buy too much in London as we may see other things in Paris, Rome and Switzerland. Visited the Royal Academy of Arts and saw the Sir Edwin Laudseer exhibition (1802-1873) Very fine-wide variety of subjects- all skillfully executed with a precision of detail. Saw the new Am. Embassy that the British term a monstrosity. not bad. Got some addresses of hotels in Rome from Catholic Travel Bureau. Ate at Palonio's Buckingham Rd, very fine meal.

April 26th, 1961

Meadow House, Brentwood, Essex
Cloudy with rain

A trip to the Launderette brought us up to date on fresh cloths. Brought some books for the grandchildren which I think they will like. The little English books for children all seem quite fascinating. We are packing to the train to London tomorrow. We take the boat train for our trip across the English Channel at 10:30 am and my first glimpse of Paris although Dad has been there before in the first W.W. Conditions there have quieted considerable we manage to get a room at the place recommended by Dizzy we shall be all set.

Harvey Hotel 7 Bis Rue du Debarcadere Paris 17 E Tel. Etoile 27-19

April 27th, 1961

Meadow House & Paris France
Some cloudiness Sunny late afternoon in Paris

Anne took us to the station and we caught the 8:45 am train for London. In good time for the Boat Train to Dover. The channel was fairly quiet and we had a good passage over with a fine dinner on the boat.

Reached Paris at about 6 PM and found accommodations at the Hotel Harvey, the place recommended by Dizzy. Dinner at the Chez Georges, making ourselves understood without too much difficulty after dinner strolled down the Avenue De la Grand Armee to the Arch of Triumph and over to the Champs Elyesee. Quite a day.

Arc de Triumph

Mary at the Arc de Triumph

April 28th,1961

Bis Rue du Debarcadere Paris XVII
Sunny and mild in am. Cloudy in p.m.

Had le petitie dejeuner at out hotel and went exploring. Visited the Louvre after wandering about the Tuileries. Went to bank and got some of those confusing francs and bought some post cards and mailed them to a few people. Had lunch out of doors in the Tuileries but day was turning cooler so did not linger. Came back to rest after our visit to the Louvre and Dad left for further exploring. He came back at dinner time with tickets for a trip to Versailles tomorrow. Haven't had a really decent meal yet. Where is the exquisite French cooking we hear so much of. Place de Concord, Royal etc. this eve.

Ervin at the Louvre

April 29th, 1961

Harvey Hotel Paris France
Some cloudiness-mild

This am woke up to find I had left my pocketbook downstairs in the hotel where we had been watching television the night before. In quite a dither until I found that they had put it away for me. Trip to Versailles this afternoon. Palace at Versailles is a marvel of richness and beauty. Quite a day as we had been to the Effie Tower in the morning - going up in it for a wonderful view - and having a nice lunch at the restaurant there. There is a lot of walking to get buses before you get started on your sightseeing, so one gets quite tired. Had dinner at La Bonne Fourchette un Rue St. Honore. Very good. Wine excellent. Ask Daddy.

Mary at the Eiffel Tower

Ervin at the Eiffel Tower

Versailles

Mary at Versailles

Versailles

Fountains at Versailles

Versailles

Fountain at Versailles

Painting of Marie Antoinette

Versailles

Painting at Versailles

Room at Versailles

Versailles

April 30th, 1961

Harvey Hotel Paris France
Raw, Cloudy, some sprinkles of rain

This morning we went to Mass at the Church of St. Therese. Mass was held in the crypt bearing her name and the children chanted parts of it - very beautiful.

Then we went over to Notre Dame where a high mass was in progress. Had a good dinner at a very swanky restaurant* across from the church at a very swanky price.

From there we went to Napoleons' tomb where one's breath is quite taken away with the atmosphere and beauty of the place. Then went down the Seine in a boat to see all over again all the places we had traversed plus many more. Met a woman from California, about our age, travelling all alone. Intends to do Europe U.K. Scandinavia etc. Some courage!

*Patisserie Perigourdine Place San Michel opp. Notre Dame. Strolled along the Seine looking at the stalls

Norte Dame

Notre Dame

Napoleon's' Tomb

Seine Book Stalls

May 1st, 1961

Harvey Hotel Paris France
Cloudy, cool, some rain

Decided to skip Italy on our journeys. Afraid it will be crowds, dirt, excitement and more struggling with a foreign language. Bought seats in a train to Geneva, Switzerland leaving Wednesday at 8:07 am. Everything closed today (1st of May) so pretty quiet. We have seen most of historic Paris, so will do a bit of shopping tomorrow and then move on. Laverie closed today, so will catch up tomorrow on fresh cloths. Had dinner at the Cafe de la Paix, Rue des Capucines. Marvelous meal beautifully cooked + served. Reasonable as French prices go.

May 2nd, 1961

Paris France Rue du Debaicudele
Mostly sunny - mild

Up fairly early this a.m. Took our clothes to the Laverie for washing. Then to Palais Royale for some shopping. Bought Carol an evening bag, and Ginny a night gown. Lunch at the Cafe de la Paix - Roast beef and potato puffs with a marvelous strawberry "tarts" we would call a pie. Did some window shopping and back to our hotel to iron and get packed. Went back to the Cafe de la Paix for supper. We find this place about the best for food. To bed early as we have to get an early start tomorrow. Bill submitted by hotel this evening very reasonable.

May 3rd, 1961

Paris, France and Geneva, Switzerland
Fair Sunny on the mild side

Hotel rang us about six AM and we were off in a taxi by 6:30 AM. Some delay checking bags through and after breakfast had just about enough time to get our train. Had excellent reserve seat tickets booked but our car broke down shortly after we started and we were switched to another car where we had to stand in the corridor for some time before they found seats again for us. Arrived in Geneva about 4:30 PM and found a very nice room at the Hotel Alba listed in AAA book. Dad has lost his group of Travelers’ Checks and will report it tomorrow to Am. Express. Thank goodness I had my two books separate so we have money. Went through French and Swiss customs smoothly.

Met a man from Richmond, VA. Very good traveling company. Walked down to Lake Geneva this eve. Dinner Cafe de Paris.

May 4th, 1961

Geneva, Switzerland -Hotel Alba
Warm-Sunny

A beautiful day and Geneva is certainly beautiful in the sun. Had breakfast in the hotel-the usual petits paius, cafe au lait, and two type of jelly. They don’t seem to go in for fruit juices in the a.m. as at home. Purchased some tickets from Hotel for a trip to Chamonix, Mont Blanc, where they hold the big ski festival. Dad plans to ride up the glacier in the cable cars, but I am sure I won’t have the nerve to go. We leave to Chamonix early tomorrow a day trip. Strolled down to Lake Geneva and met a couple from Pennsylvania. They asked us to join them on the boat ride on Lake Geneva this afternoon, which we did. Nearly two hours of the most wonderful scenery I ever saw.

Greenest of foliage-cleanest of lakes-and snow capped mountains ringing us on all sides. Pleasant little chalets perched precariously on distant hills-a most entrancing ride. We went to the Am. Express office to file our numerous papers on our lost Travellers Checks, and took off for the American Consulate to have the certified etc. Back to the girl at Am. Express office where duplicate checks where available immediately. Inquired our way from an Anglo-Indian whom we thought at least a lower potentate but who turned out to be a rug and fur merchant who offered us a mink or leopard coat for at least ⅕ of what we would pay in Swiss stores. Insisted on giving us his address: Moh Di Yaqule Avenue 48 Windi 3d Floor (Bus No 3).

We don’t plan to take him up on it.

It’s name is Jet D’Eau and it is beautiful illuminated at night.

Geneva, Switzerland

Jet d'Eau Fountain, Geneva Switzerland

Geneva, Switzerland

Ervin and Mary in Geneva, Switzerland

May 5th, 1961

Hotel Alba, Geneva, Switzerland
Raining hard in am, Hot sunny after 10:30

Today was a big day. Had breakfast early and we were half inclined to cancel our trip to Chamonix as it was raining very hard.

However, they told us it might clean so we took a chance on the weather which turned out to be very good. The bus got us to Chamonix about 10:30 am by which time the sun was shining brightly. The magnificence of the mountain ranges defies description. Took the cable car (highest cable car in the world) up the glacier to Mont Blanc. Snow everywhere on the mountain tops and a hotly shining sun made quite a contrast. Had dinner at the Hotel Mont Blanc and wandered about the little town buying cards and writing and posting them. I am sure we got some wonderful pictures.

Chamonix, France

After Figuilla Du Midi

Chamonix, France

Mary at Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc

Ervin at Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc

May 6th, 1961

Geneva, Switzerland
Cloudy with rain; sun toward eve.

Woke up after a miserable night with a cold mostly in throat and upper chest. Took some Strepsil (throat lozenges we got in England) and took it easy in morning. Went to dinner (noon) at the Hotel d’Alleves’ Coq Rouge on a nearby side street and had a very good meal with lovely fresh strawberries for dessert. Then went shopping and Dad found a dear little shop with the window full of Swiss clocks all working overtime and the quaintest little dolls.

Bought Mary Caroline a lovely little Swiss costume dress and hat and some dolls for all our little girls. Found a quaint little music box for Carol with dancing figures. Located a boys’ shop where we got alpine climbing shorts for David and little Dickie. Took a bus tour around the city in the afternoon seeing some of the wonderful sights of Geneva: League of Nations bldg; New United Nations Palace; Russian Orthodox Church; Protestant Reform Monument; and a statue of the Duke of something or other who gave all his money to the city of Geneva that they might build him a mausoleum and a statue of himself on horseback looking out over the lake. Unfortunately, they reversed the statue and he is now looking inland and the horse is looking over the lake. Had supper at and open air cafe; visited Notre Dame to find out time for masses tomorrow and home for the evening.

May 7th, 1961

Geneva Switzerland
Sunny-Mild

Another uncomfortable night with my cold. Woke to bright sunshine with not a cloud in the sky. Discovered yesterday morning they had toasted English muffins instead of Petits Pauis so have been getting them for breakfast. Very good! Went to La Grande Messe at 10:00 a.m. at Notre Dame. A beautiful church with its Swiss Guard stalking the middle aisle with his sword and Halberd. Chanting of portions of the mass by the congregation was very effective. Dinner at same place as yesterday. A stroll in the afternoon and packing tonight. We leave for Zurich tomorrow a.m. A quiet day.

May 8th, 1961

Zurich, Switzerland from Geneva
Fair, sunny, fairly warm

Boarded our train to Zurich in good time and had a very good seat. Swiss trains are clean and comfortable. Had a splendid dinner on the train with the usual interminable courses. Before we left Geneva, we made one last purchase - a couple of Swiss horns for David and Dickie. The hotel where Hotel Alba booked us in Zurich seems reasonably satisfactory. Our room is comfortable and has adjoining bath. After arriving, we explored the city and found a Tourist Bureau where we booked a tour to Lucerne for tomorrow. We leave at 2:00 pm and get back at 7:15 pm. The hotel is called Hotel Du Theatre and has some very peculiar statuary outside whose meaning is lost to us. Strolled by the Zurichsee this evening.

May 9th, 1961

Zurich, Switzerland, Du Theatre
Cool, Windy, some Sunniness

Went over to the station this morning and bought tickets for The Hague on the de-lux train, Europa. Got a scarf for Grannie and some socks to go with the boys’ alpine shorts. The people here differ from those in Paris and Geneva. In the latter two places, no one noticed anyone else. Here they will look each other over. Can it be the change from French to German? This afternoon we took a 5 hr. Trip to Lake Lucerne. Beautiful scenery-indescribable- with its lakes and mountains. Stopped at Brunnen on the way back at a little tea room for coffee and cakes. Passed through village, Berne, made famous by William Tell. Saw towers and fortifications dating back 1000 years.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Mary and Monk

Lucerne, Switzerland

Mary in Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne, Switzerland

May 10th, 1961

Zurich, Switzerland and The Hague, Holland
Mostly Sunny

Boarded the train for Holland at 11:20 am and took off about 11:43 am. Passed through France, Belgium and Luxembourg after leaving Switzerland before we entered Holland. Beautiful country all the way. Arrived at Grand Hotel Central 6 Lange Poten st about 9:30 PM and found our room ready. A large pleasant room with adjoining bath. We may not be able to have it more then one night but they promise us something for the rest of our stay. Customs Officer was away on a little vacation and won't be back until tomorrow eve at 7:00 so tonight we must sleep as best as we can without pajamas and toilet articles. Great Life!

May 11th, 1961

The Hague, Holland
Cold, raw, windy, cloudy

A wonderful nights sleep-we were really tired. Nice breakfast in hotel dining room and the out to explore the city. It is some sort of Holy day* and all the stores were closed. Went over to the station and bought our tickets for Harwich, England, for Saturday. We go by boat train to Hook of Holland and then across the North Sea (+ hrs) to Harwich. This afternoon we went to see the Miniature Village at Madurodam. Took a lot of pictures through the sun was not out, so results will not be good. Had tea at the Hotel Lounge and finally got our luggage, Pajamas-hurray!

*Discovered later it was Ascension Thursday and I should have been at Mass myself, all messed up on the days.

Madurodam Miniature Village, The Hague

May 12th, 1961

The Hague, Holland
Clear, Sunny, Mild

Went through an old Dutch prison now R’yk museum complete with torture chamber, instruments, rooms for common + political prisoners. Saw room in which Cornelius DeWitt was imprisoned, accused of a plot to assassinate Wm the III. Later he was tortured and sentenced to banishment, but he and his brother who came to get him, were murdered by the mob outside the prison.

Went shopping for a few more gifts for people at home. Had a lovely dinner at the hotel. They can’t locate a room at a London hotel for us, so we shall just have to take our chances when we get there. Strolled about the old part of town and saw many old buildings most likely old parliamentary buildings and Govt. offices.

May 13th, 1961

The Hague, Harwich, England
Clear, sunny, fairly mild

Had an early breakfast and took the boat train for the Hook of Holland. There we boarded the steamer to cross the North Sea to Harwich. All went smoothly through customs. Very nice dinner and high tea on board the boat. Secured deck chairs when we got aboard and had the sunny side of the deck. Very relaxing trip. Sea calm and no pitch to boat. Arrived in London about 8:40 PM and secured accommodations at the Great Eastern Hotel. Excellent room and everything comfortable and very clean. Went to bed immediately as we were pleasantly tired and must be up to look for a church tomorrow morning.

May 14th, 1961

London and Meadow House, Brentwood, Essex, Eng.
Cool-cloudy-some sun in the a.m.

Went to Mass at St. Mary of Moorfields near our hotel in London. Had a wonderful breakfast at our hotel before starting for Brentwood. Train to Brentwood packed with people and had to sit on my suitcase most of the way. Found Meadow House its usual hospitable best, and we were very glad to see everyone again. The garden has come out a lot since our last visit and it was pleasant sitting in the sun. Unfortunately this didn’t last too long as the weather clouded up after our arrival, and turned cool for the rest of the day. Sorry to find Ann’s mother in the hospital.

May 15th, 1961

Meadow House, Brentwood
Cloudy w/sunshine late afternoon

Went to London to see about tours to Scotland or Ireland. Dropped into Cunard Lines to pick up labels for our luggage and found that a mistake had been made on our tickets. Queen Mary sails on the 24th-our date, June 1st, is for the Queen Elizabeth. Although Queen Mary is listed on ticket. Will go in tomorrow to see about rectifying this. Had a nice dinner at the Chicken Inn + got some information on a voyage to Southern Ireland. Ann’s mother operated on this morning. Word tonight is encouraging. Will more later. Supper in the drawing room with Ann’s father as additional guest. Very pleasant.

May 16th, 1961

Meadow House, Brentwood, Essex
Fair, intermittent cloudiness

Dad went to London today and I set out for a nice long walk. A bit on the chilly side but warn when the sun came out. Met some gypsies who said I was to be very lucky and wished to read my palm but I had no money with me.

Dad came back to say that he had tickets for the boat train to Ireland for tomorrow. So we are off again. Called Kay and she wants us at Bexhill after we come back from Ireland. Time is getting short, we’ll soon be for America.

May 17th, 1961

Meadow House Fishguard Wales + Rosslare Boat en-route to Ireland
Sunny-Fairly Warm

Wrote some letters this morning and posted them-probably all the letters I'll write until we are home again. Received a lot of mail which has been following us around. Ann drove us to the station and we caught the 1:20 train for London. Drove across to Paddington station by taxi and caught the train for Fishguard where we boarded the boat for Rosslare. Had a de-lux cabin booked but found it had been given to some man by mistake. After rousing the occupant, they decided to give us another similar one to which we agreed. Had a good laugh about it especially the Porter, who said he'd wait around to pick up the pieces.

May 18th, 1961

Rosslare Boat and Wexford, Ireland
Cloudy in a.m. turning sunny

Arrived at Rosslare Harbor after a rather rolling ocean voyage in the wee small hrs of the morning. Train to Wexford after a very excellent breakfast on board ship. Wexford is a small quaint town 13 miles from Rosslare. The hotel (Talbot) is rated A by the Irish guide for hotels and our room with bath is very comfortable. Went out to explore the place - pop 12,000- area on of the driest and sunniest in Ireland. Streets very narrow. In 1649 Cromwell occupied the town and massacred the inhabitants. People very friendly and all give greetings as they pass. Bought a little dress for Kathleen and a sweater for Dick Sr. Dad wishes to move on as there is little to hold one here. He is out scouting tickets to Dublin.

Building in Ireland(Not sure if this is in Wexford)

May 19th, 1961

Wexford, Ireland
Sunny-Fairly Warm

Found a car and chauffeur to take us over the surrounding country. Chauffeur, Bryant Kennedy, wonderful companion and excellent guide. Visited Titania’s Palace, the world’s most perfect miniature structure conceived by Sir Nevile Wilkinson at his Mt. Merrion home south of Dublin. * Had dinner at Wooden Bridge hotel in the Vale of Avoca. Then visited Glendaloch, County Wicklow where we saw the Chapel of St. Kevin, the ruins of the community church there and the oldest Norman Round Tower in Ireland, where the monks sought refuge with the sacred vessels when attacked. Some of the most beautiful of scenery in Ireland. Visited the rivers made famous by Thomas Moore, Irish Poet, in his “meeting of the waters”

*Daughter saw a fairy in her garden and father conceived idea of building a fairy palace for Titania and Oberon.

Vale of St Kevin's, Ireland

May 20th, 1961

Wexford, Ireland (Hotel Talbot)
Warm and sunny.

Woke to a glorious morning-bright sunlight, ocean sparkling. Took a long walk along the oceanfront and saw the fishermen mending their nets and painting their boats. Our guide from yesterday came to the hotel with a gift for us - a small linen mat trimmed with real irish lace. A most engaging gesture and typical of the warm hearts of the Irish. Had dinner at the hotel and High Tea before we got our train for Rosslare Harbor. News of a man drowning at Wexford by the conductor of the train. Boat cabin very adequate and weather more agreeable than when we took the boat for Ireland. Went to bed early as we must be up for the 3:55 am train to London tomorrow morning.

May 21st, 1961

Fishguard, and London-then Bexhill Cardiff, Swansea, Fishguard all in Wales
Clean, Sunny-Cloudy, cool in London

Steward woke us at Fishguard and brought us big mugs of hot tea at 3:00 a.m. The air was soft and mild when we came out to the train. Our compartment empty until Swansea when a very nice couple with their little girl occupied it with us to London. Got a taxi from Paddington Station to Victoria and connected immediately with the London train. Had the compartment to ourselves all the way to Bexhill. Steward brought us tea and sandwiches. Charles and James were waiting at train stop for us and Peter drove us all to St. Norbert’s. We had been warned about traveling at Whitsun but had absolutely no trouble. In the evening Peter drove us to the boys school and then on to Rye*, one of the oldest towns in England. Lovely old church and homes. Home to a supper cooked by Kay.

* At Rye we came upon a group of men in Old English Costumes dancing in the street to ancient music played by a fiddler (Morris Dancers)

May 22nd, 1961

St. Norbert’s, Bexhill-on-Sea, England
Cool-clear, sunny

A perfect day-clear and sunny. Slept wonderfully and spent most of the day in the hammock in Kay’s garden. Very relaxing after the pressure upon us traveling during the past few weeks. Dad and Peter off for some golf this morning. Back about 3 pm when we had a porch lunch. A lazy afternoon with everyone resting either in the house or garden. After tea Dad and I walked down to the beach in the lovely evening sunshine. Ocean never more beautiful-dark blue with snowy breakers lapping the shore. In the evening Peter drove us all to Hastings to see the lights and the castle lighted up. The Canbarra new 45,000 ton liner sailed by all lighted. Very beautiful. On its way to Australia on its maiden voyage.

May 23rd, 1961

St Norberts Bexhill-on-Sea
Clear, sunny, cool

Today Kay drove us down to Maidstone in her new little car (Auston) although just learning to drive she makes a fine chauffeur. We went to see Leeds Castle and our “Queen Mary friend” Marjorie Bonet. Unfortunately we missed Marjorie as she was out, but we were able to drive around the castle and get some pictures of the castle and the grounds. Had a lovely picnic lunch enroute. Showed slides tonight on Pete’s projector after a very nice dinner.

Will write a letter to Marjorie when we return to America. Left her a note telling her we were there.

Leeds Castle

May 24th, 1961

St Norbert’s, Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex
Clear, sunny, cool, warm late in p.m.

Another lovely day, England does have days when the sky is a blue bowl. We were beginning to doubt it. Kay busy this morning, so I walked down to the sea. Dad was playing golf again with Peter. After a nice lunch served on the porch, we all went in Peter’s car to see the boys play cricket. Their school was matched against another nearby one. Unfortunately Summerfields lost. James and Charles made a good showing though my knowledge of cricket is very meager. After the game (satisfying tea at intermission) Peter drove us into the country. We saw Ashburnham a lovely and vast estate which the heir is stripping of timber to pay off taxes, etc. Too bad to see such an attractive spot going piecemeal.

May 25th, 1961

St Norbert’s & Tunbridge Wells Kent
Sunny, warm, cold in evening

This morning we set our for Tunbridge Wells Kent to see Joan and family. Kay was on her way to London so we company as far as Tunbridge Wells. John and little Henry met us at the station and drove us to their home. It is a lovely old English home with spacious lived-in rooms and the inevitable garden. Her children 3 boys are handsome and robust and we enjoyed them and our visit immensely. Went for a stroll in the afternoon before tea. Lovely late supper and a chat before the fireplace while awaiting train time. Dizzy (Dr Dean) drove us to the station and saw us safely on the train. Later Joan called to see we had found a taxi at this end and were safely home. Nice day!

Tumbridge Wells

Mary, Henry and Anthony at Tumbridge Wells

Anthony, Joan, Henry and Mary at Tumbridge Wells

Mary, Henry, Anthony and Ervin at Tumbridge Wells

Anthony, Joan, Henry and Ervin at Tumbridge Wells

May 26th, 1961

St Norbert’s Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex
Cold, some cloudiness with evening

Kay got back from London about voice a.m. and Anne, her girl, having packed a picnic lunch for us, we set out in Kay’s car for Canterbury. Canterbury is thriving town, very old in buildings and atmosphere. The Roman pavement has been overlaid and shops are on the spot now. Visited St. Thomas Catholic Church, and the Cathedral at Canterbury where Roman Catholicism merges with Reformation. Went to tea at a little shop nearby and had hot tea and toasted scones with jam. Kay did nobly on the driving end of it, and we reached home at about 8:30 pm. Lovely dinner of fresh salmon and peas. Joan called, also Jim. We called off the Cambridge trip and will stay at Bexhill until Monday. Saw Readeau Castle built 600 years ago see brochure

Canterbury Cathedral

May 27th, 1961

St. Norbert’s, Bexhill-on-Sea
Cold, clear, sunny

A bitterly cold day for this time of year, especially with the sun shining so brightly. Decided to stay home and relax. Ran across a book “The Windsor Tapestry” by Compton Mackenzie which I shall try to get it at home to finish. It is an account of the life and abdication of Edw VIII, Went down to Hastings in the late afternoon with Kay to do a little shopping. No fresh fish at the great fish market as it was too choppy for the fishmonger to go out. Bought some cooked lobster and Dad made a nice lobster salad for tea. To bed early to read and rest. Nice to relax after two days of constant riding.

May 28th, 1961

St Norbert’s, Bexhill-on-Sea
Sunny early a.m. turning cold & rainy

Another fairly quiet day. Good we cancelled the Cambridge trip as the day turned very cold and rainy after a bit of sun in the a.m. Went to 9:30 am Mass and walked by the sea going and coming. A bit longer but well worth it. Had a lovely dinner-roast beef and Yorkshire pudding and continued reading my book. All rested in the afternoon and then Dad and I went riding with Kay. Television after tea this evening. Shirpa, the great black cat, determined not to be out done by Mandy and her pups, presented us with two kittens in the broom closet. Kittens found by accident when Kay suspected that Shirpa was acting peculiarly.

May 29th, 1961

St. Norbert’s, Bexhill-on-Sea
Sunny early a.m. - Cold, rainy later

Went in to Hastings this morning to have my hair done. Very nice shop and service. Began to rain hard as we came back. Good for the gardens. They certainly need it. In spite of England’s cloudy, lowering weather there has been very little rainfall since we have been here.

This afternoon Kay, Dad and I came up to London and caught the train to Brentwood. Letter waiting from Helen. Nice supper with lots of fun and laughter. Key left for the mews about 9:30 pm. To bed fairly early. Tomorrow we must pack and get all our bags to Waterloo Station for shipping.

May 30th, 1961

Meadow House, Brentwood, Essex
Sunny-fairly mild

Got our packing done in good time this morning. Labels made and pasted on and off to Waterloo Station to ship them to Southampton. After ridding ourselves of them, we set out to find a hotel for tomorrow night. Darby, Epson Downs, Cricket and Tourists had filled everything up and we had some difficulty, but managed to get the Morton in Wobam place, Russell Sq. Took a boat down the Thames to Greenwich. Very nice ride and a fine view of Tower of London and Traitors Gate from the water. Caught the express to Brentwood and was in good time for High Tea. Ann’s mother home from the hospital today and we called on her in the morning.

May 31st, 1961

Meadow House & the Mews, London
Mild-sunny-fairly clear for Eng.

This morning we came up to London with Ann’s father, Mr. Gordon Cambell, who has a Queen’s appointment to something or other connected to the Courts. He put us on the train for Baker Street (ancient haunt of Sherlock Holmes) and we took a cab from there to the mews. The mews (formerly the Kings’ stable) have been modeled into apts. And Peter bought one some years ago. It is very quaint, and we had tea there. Then went down to Kew by boat to see the gardens; and from there to Hampton Court by bus. Wonderful to see and recall its history. Back to the mews for supper and then Peter drove us over London to see some of it at night. Room for the night at Morton Hotel, the poorest we have had yet. Peter drove Dad to see Lord’s the famous cricket field.

London Kew

Hampton Court

June 2nd, 1961

Aboard Queen Elizabeth
Sunny, clear, windy

Managed to get up in time for breakfast though it was an effort. Went up to the sports deck to sun ourselves in our deck chairs and stayed most of the morning. It was windy but sunny and not too cold. More lying around the sun deck in the afternoon. Bingo in the evening in the Garden Lounge. Not too many playing and the stakes fairly low. They have a fairly good orchestra and some of the selections their afternoon and evening were very well done.

June 3rd, 1961

Aboard Queen Elizabeth
Scattered cloudiness - windy

Spent all forenoon on the sun deck - cool but sunny most of the time.

Nothing much doing on this ship. Eat and lie around in the sun. Food and service not so good as on the Queen Mary, but adequate.

Bingo and Horse Racing in Evening. Daddy won in the first race.

Aboard the Queen Elizabeth

Mary aboard the Queen Elizabeth

June 4th, 1961

Queen Elizabeth
Fair, sunny-cloudy in PM

Mass in the 1st Class Lounge this am at 9:30. A sung mass -beautifully done.

Bingo in evening followed by Crazy Hat Parade and dancing in the Smoke Room.

June 5th, 1961

Queen Elizabeth
Sunny-war

Deck chairs most of the day. Bingo in the evening.

June 6th, 1961

Queen Eliz-N.Y.-Home!
Hot, humid, sunny

Through immigration about 12 noon. Disembarked 1:00 PM. Shed in N.Y. at Customs barriers very hot and noisy. Connected with Custom’s official about 2:30 PM. Very lenient with us. After watching the luggage of the other people being torn open we were much relieved to have such a kind inspector. Home by 7 pm. And a nice visit from Carol and Bob in the evening. So good to be back!

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