6802-G-HALF PAY 2 - Pt 2

Bertie and Mabel came down to lunch. Thought the house very pretty, which it is. I think that they were surprised at it.

22 August - Sunday

Week gone very quickly. Our servants all on the move in view of our probably letting. Heard from Chaplain at Kreuznach. He wrote about Stevie, evidently taken a great fancy to him.

23 August - Monday

My beloved wife’s birthday. God bless and keep her.

24 August - Tuesday

Heard from Bertie today, that he is to be appointed to the newly formed War Council, a position similar to the D.N.I. and worth £1500 a year. He most generously offers to help me financially with Stevie.

25 August - Wednesday

Dear Francie’s birthday.

27 August - Friday

Olga and I took train to the Dyke Golf Station and had a look at the Golf Links, which appear very good and well kept. Entrance and subscription too high for me at present.

Called on old Miss Noel, then I biked to the Dyke, about 600 feet high and had a most magnificent view of the valley beneath stretching out for miles and miles to the East and West. Came back free wheel nearly 6 miles, all the way.

29 August - Sunday

Heard from Stevie who is much enjoying himself as he expressed it, flirting with all the young ladies, French and otherwise.

31 August - Tuesday

First lot of people came over the house to see it.

2 September - Thursday

Stevie arrived at 11 am, having left Kreuznach yesterday at 9 am where he has been spending the last three weeks and enjoying himself very much, learning German and taking Baths for glands.

He made many friends there.

5 September - Sunday

Attended St Margaret’s Church. Heard capital and most helpful Addresses from Hubert Brooke, morning and evening.

7 September - Tuesday

Heard from Bertie, with whom I had been in correspondence, that he intended paying off Edith’s and Ella’s debts, £6 a month. They owe about £160 between them.

9 September - Thursday

Yesterday, Olga to town, it rained hard there all day, whilst it only commenced to drizzle at Brighton at 6 pm.

I biked out to Rottingdean having already a little rheumatism on me. By the evening was bad and today miserable, all down my back and side.

10 September - Friday

Intended going up to town today, but rheumatism so bad in back and shoulders, had to get into bed again, until after lunch. Painful to make any movement.

Revd Hubert Brooke called yesterday, found him a charming personality.

12 September - Sunday

French Pasteur had tea with us, a very interesting man, and authenticated the case of the Armenian as being genuine, his father 90 years of age, and 22 of his family killed before his eyes and the children of his brother a Doctor, killed and thrown to the dogs before his eyes. His father was a Methodist clergyman. His youngest sister being young and pretty was taken into the Pasha’s Harem and is treated as if she was a Mohomedan and it is only now and then the brother and sister manage to communicate with each other, she continually weeping.

He was wounded and escaped to the mountains, with a young companion of 18, who died of starvation. All this happened about 8 years ago. Another time he was bound and left on the mountains to die of starvation, but managed to get clear of his bonds, thru’ using his teeth. More of his relatives were killed at the Adana Massacres this spring, where some 60,000 Armenians lost their lives.

The Armenian by name always bear a melancholy look and, the Pasteur told us, he almost went out of his mind, at the horrors he had seen, for as he told us, the unborn children were cut out of the women and thrown to the dogs, which of course abound in the Eastern cities.

He is now anxious to get money to return and try to deliver his sister. If he finds out her whereabouts, and by getting an Armenian Priest and Protestant clergyman to testify she is a X.tian, he may have her released. How long are these injustices to go on?

17 September - Friday

Our dear Boy returned to Dartmouth, we shall miss him. Very hoarse and vocal cords much inflamed from using Arnica as a gargle.

Had to see Dr Molson this evening. Olga and I going there when her friends had left. Countess de Morel (Widow), Lady Holled-Smith, Mrs Lawther and Admiral Bingham.

18 September - Saturday

Last Wednesday, went to London and was photographed by special request by Lafayette and Elliot and Fry, who took about 15 to 20 positions each. The present one of myself being published is not in strict uniform.

Lunched at the Athenaeum Club. Throat improving.

Hysterical maid Florence had a scene with dear Olga.

21 September - Tuesday

Left for Chatham putting up with Commodore and Mrs Troubridge. The former took the Chair at the R..N.T.S. Meeting in the Drill Hall, some 5 to 600 present and about a dozen Officers. Was touched by the way Troubridge spoke of me. I spoke for about 20 to 25 minutes. Rev’d Mr Weeks also spoke. A very successful meeting, about 80 took the pledge.

22 September - Wednesday

Lou and Madge left for The Elms to stay with Lady Armstrong.

Com. Smith shewed me all over the Barracks. Very well organised and everything well thought out.

Drove to Gillingham in the evening, and took the Chair at the Town Hall, for the R.N.T.S. about 160 present. Many of the wives’ branch present. Everything went off very well.

Mrs Troubridge is only 22, pretty and quite a genius, very delicate, has a voice like Melba’s so I am told. She has exhibited at R.A. ever since she was 16 being a splendid sculptor, engraves and paints very well. She modelled a short time ago the Princess of Asturias, Queen of Spain’s little daughter and that of her husband, 2½ feet high, was in the Academy this year.

She was a Miss Taylor, daughter of Queen’s Messenger, and comes of a very artistic family, lived abroad a good deal. Is only 7 years older than the eldest Miss Troubridge. How it will turn out by and bye I do not know. It is all right at present. Had a miscarriage soon after her marriage and has been in a Home of Rest, nervous break down, gets headaches in company of people.

23 September - Thursday

Left this morning for Home. I walked up to see my old friend Drury, C-in-C, who returned last night and we had a chat together over naval matters. He told me McKenna demanded the Inquiry that neither Fisher, or Beresford did. The former hardly said anything, Beresford floundered tremendously, shewed much ignorance, did not even know what calibrating was. Custance never got beyond the 15th Century. In fact Drury said CB made a tremendous hash of it all. Fisher had intended leaving in October, but will not do so yet a while. Will be made a peer later on, but if he went now, it would look as if he had been driven out, Drury said and I know he is right for CB told me the same thing.

Some years back CB hoped to be in the Cabinet and made Minister of Defence, but Lord Salisbury took his measure. He then wished to be 1st Lord and eventually when he saw that there was no chance of that, wished to be made 1st Sea Lord and succeed Fisher, but on the latter being made Ad of Fleet and retained, he saw that there was no chance of that, and this embittered him.

At the same time, I know Sir John was determined to best CB in any way he could and there has been a personal rivalry throughout, but Sir John is a genius while CB is only a good sea officer.

We both agreed that it would be a good thing if Wilson would succeed Fisher as 1. Lord, until May was ready to return as 1. Lord. Drury told me, that when the question was once raised on CB being 1st Sea Lord, Robinson the Financial Secretary said, if he did, he would walk out of the room.

Drury also told me that when he was at the Board, it was almost settled I should get the Reserves - alas! The futility of human hopes. I told Drury that I was not asking for anything, and could leave everything in God’s Hands.

I lunched with Ted and Francie, neither looking well and obsessed with the wickedness of the Budget, intend to invest all their money abroad!!! It has got quite on their minds. They should go away for a trip abroad, as they always hear the same kind of things and conversation and move in a very narrow circle. I was rather shocked at Ted’s appearance, he has aged so much.

Arrived home at 5 pm and met my dear wife, looking very well. House very quiet without children.

Ted and Francie said Lloyd George was not what he professed to be, that Sir Henry Tichborne and Johnny Vandeleur of the Guards, found him behind the scenes at the Gaiety etc., etc. and that Asquith drank. On one occasion he was sick behind the Speaker’s Chair. I wonder if these things are true.

29 September - Wednesday

Heard from Charlotte, who writes most warmly about the girls. She wired on Tuesday, asking us to let them stay until Saturday.

30 September - Thursday

Left for London. Stayed the night at Bertie’s and Mabel.

TO ST ANDREWS FOR FAMILY WEDDING

1 October - Friday

Left 10 am Kings Cross 3rd Class for St Andrews where I arrived at 8.30 pm. Edward Grogan meeting me. On arrival at 1 Gillespie Terrace, found Ida and a large party of connections and saw Aileen again after 20 years. She is now 29 and has a great look of Meta, a very animated face and good eyes. Her fiancé Jack Wedderburn-Ogilvy about 42, a good honest face and all say a most kindly nature. Many of my Forman relations there and more coming.

2 October - Saturday

Walked round the famed Links and had a look at the new house Ida has bought. More visitors coming in from the country.

3 October - Sunday

Attended Presbyterian Church, accompanied by Ethel Grogan. Nellie Bigland (née Hannay) and her husband. Good sermon but there was a lack of feeling about the service.

4 October - Monday

Went up to see the Curate of the Episcopal Church where the marriage is to take place. We had a long talk of an hour on Baptismal Regeneration, Laying on of Hands, and other matters. He is a very high Church young man and belongs to a celibate brotherhood.

Still more of the family turning up. Monteith and Ethel Grahame and their sons, Blanche Forman, bringing Norah and Jim Forman, children of late Charles Forman. George and Nellie Forman with their children and others of the family.

A very large amount of presents. Ours was much admired, a handsome blue writing case from Edward in Bond Street, beautifully compact and fitted up. Francie’s present was a necklace; Bertie and Mabel a crescent brooch. A handsome present of plate from Jack’s tenantry. Altogether Aileen received nearly 200 presents, for she is a most popular girl.

The wedding took place at 2 pm, the Dean of Perth motored over to assist. Church crammed and prettily decorated. Bertie and I as her uncles were representatives of dear Meta, her mother’s family and signed the register.

The wedding was a very pretty one. Four bridesmaids, Ethel, Norah Forman, Miss Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Dymsey Bridges, daughter of Sybil Bridges - Edward’s niece.

I felt a great lump in my throat when I hear Aileen give her name, as Meta Aileen Odette, reminding me of dear Meta’s marriage in 1874 from Admiralty House, Devonport. Aileen looked pretty. Bertie and I signed the Registry.

A reception of about 250 people was held at 1 Gillespie Terrace (Edward’s place) and at 4 pm the happy pair went off by motor to Ethel’s place on Lake Monteith. Some of the younger generation had put in the back of the Car “Well mated” and it went off, with this legend on it.

In the evening, a dance was given, finishing at 2 am by a reel. Ida and all joining in. I met and had a very interesting talk with Mrs Thompson, a widow. She told me that she lived in an old house that Queen Mary once lived in and had been in some six years. She went away in the Spring, and on her return occupied another Bed Room, whilst her own was being cleaned, etc. She returned to it and suddenly felt that as if some great evil was in the room, and looked around, of course saw nothing. The oppression was so great, that she had to leave the room.

Next day her sister felt the same thing and then Mrs Thompson told her, how she had felt the same thing, the day before and on cross examination the servants, they said that they never liked to go into the room, during Mrs Thompson’s absence.

This recital led to Mrs Thompson and I having a long talk together on the reality of the spiritual world and on the power of prayer. She was very interested. This was during the dance. Bertie and Mabel, both looking very well came over from Scone Palace.

5 October - Tuesday

I returned this evening by the night mail.

Edward told me the wedding had cost £300 and that Aileen would have by settlements £500 from the Ogilvy property, if left a widow and as she inherits about £200 from Edward and Ida, she would have £700. At present, Edward will allow her £50 and she has £25 of her own. Uncle James left £100,000 to his children.

HOME

6 October - Wednesday

Arrived early this morning at 30 Belgrave Road, Bertie and Mabel who returned by Euston a little later. Later on I called on C.E.T.S and had a talk with the Secretary, meeting a Bishop there (Croydon, I think) and was promptly booked for a meeting at Carlisle in November. Attended Service.

Arrived home and met my precious Olga at 4 pm. Found ED here.

It appears Sunday night Olga left the Front Door open and was asleep in bed when she was awoke by hearing some men coming up the stairs. Her heart sank, being alone on the landing, then a knock at her door, which at most made her heart stop and she couldn’t answer. Then another knock. She got out “Who is there?” Reply “Constable, found your Front Door open.”

She went to the Door in her night dress and found the Bull Eyes lantern on her and Olga still frightened, though much relieved, was informed by Constable of how he had rung and no answer and said “You must be careful Miss.”

11 October - Monday

Read in The Times, Dartmouth Regatta of two races, in which dear Stevie figured as one of the winners.

Have decided not to let our house for the present, not knowing where to take the children, although we were offered 8 guineas for it this morning for three months.

13 October - Wednesday

Bertie’s appointment in the papers today.

I visited the Palestine Exhibition yesterday. A good collection. A little disappointed at the model of Tabernacle and also model of Jerusalem in time of Our Lord.

Visited my old shipmate Fleet Surgeon Strickland today, who has been so ill and we had a pleasant talk together. He told me all about his trip to Mount Sinai in 1890. We were shipmates together in the Minotaur in 1868 and 1869 and in Lord Warden in 1883. He shewed me photographs the other day of groups in Minotaur, where I was a Mid.

16 October - Saturday

Very bad weather the last few days. Raining and blowing hard from the South West. I feel at times, a little depressed at lack of employment and also see my beloved Olga is not satisfied. I do not see my way clear financially. Doctors and Dentists take such a lot of our income.

Text this morning “Have Faith in God, Lord increase our faith.”

20 October - Wednesday

Saw Strickland yesterday. He told me an amusing story of Commodore Wyrle when on the West Coast, years ago, he generally went by the name of Bully Wyrle. Well, when Captain of a vessel on West Coast, a Mid. stole one of his chickens so he promptly put the Mid. in hen coop for a whole watch and made him call out loud enough for everyone to hear “Coope de coup, Coope de coup.”

Yesterday, went to Palestine Exhibition and much interested, especially hearing Rev. Mr Schor lecture on the weddings of the East. Everything was carried out to the minutest detail by some score of people, even to the wedding bridal party marching along. It illustrated the Bible wonderfully and threw new light on verses and parables.

Very bad weather.

21 October - Trafalgar Day

Went up by the afternoon train to 30 Belgrave Road, and on with Bertie to the Metropole Hotel to attend the Trafalgar Dinner. About 250 present. Lord Charles Beresford in the Chair and Lord Middleton (Viscount) the guest of the evening. CB enthusiastically received and I am afraid this turned his head. He gave a long yarn about Nelson, about ½ an hour, however much that he said was very good and much applauded.

Lord Middleton on responding to his health, made a very long speech, very intense, a lot of it unnecessary and fulsome as regards CB, which was capped by my dear old friend and skipper Sir Wm. Kennedy and altogether, the tendency was to make out that but for CB, the Empire in the 80’s would have gone.

Then up got CB and his head thoroughly gone, poor old chap, took the great gathering as a demonstration in favour of himself as against the Admiralty and launched out in very bad taste, dealing with the late row with the Admiralty, and of his being dismissed. It was most uncomfortable.

King Dick was there and I had the pleasure of holding two of my old chiefs in the right and left hand, both Admirals of the Fleet, Sir Frederick Richards and Sir Edward Seymour. 250 present, a record number. Ad. Northland made his usual request of £1000 to the Club, which he makes every year. Bertie agreed with me, that it was bad taste, C.B’s speech.

Bertie has a difficult job. J Fisher is so slippery, but the extra men are required and must be obtained. Bertie will go by what Bridgeman does, if he ducks, Bertie will and vice versa.

Decided to see Mr McKenna to-morrow.

22 October - Friday

Man proposes, but God disposes and how graciously He over rules our lives and actions.

I wrote to Madden and sent letter up by Bertie’s messenger - out of town. I then went up and found McKenna has gone to Conference, just missed him (having delayed coming to Ad. by Bertie’s advice). Found Badderley out and then sent messenger to Skinner (Ass P.Sec), some one with him.

Met Brock coming to thank 1st Lord for app’t. “Hullo” said he, “after an appointment?” I evaded the question and left the coast clear for him to see Skinner. I felt very nonplussed, not knowing what to do, or how to act and as I walked across to the Club. I offered up prayer for guidance.

Went into Reading Room. A few minutes afterwards, in came my friend Sir Charles Drury, we talked over last night’s dinner. He said he was going to speak to the Committee and a very little more would make him leave the Club.

I then said, I am trying to see McKenna. He strongly advised me not to do so. I asked him several times. He said “They all know you are a candidate for the Reserves” and then he said “I feel as sure as you are sitting in that Chair that you will go there.” I said nothing more, but told Drury how I felt I ought to do anything necessary to be done and so considered I should see McKenna by Bertie’s advice.

Now I felt much relieved at not doing so, for in Miss Weston’s book there is a picture of a sailor shewing his mother a Cabin in Rest and the text over the head of the Bed is “Be still and know I am God.” He said again “Do nothing.” What dare I hope? May I hope? Never mind, I will hope and if disappointed, God will enable me to see that disappointment is appointment.

Lunched with Francie, met my old friend Lady Winchelsea. I had not seen her for 37 years. Nan Codrington that was. Blacked under the eyes, and smokes cigarettes, still most agreeable.

Returned home to my beloved wife and children.

24 October - Sunday

Lou and I drove to Church, sat in draught, got inflamed eyes and nose, very trying. Bertie and Mabel came down from London and called in for ½ hour chat. Met Admiral and Mrs McAlpine, took them in and introduced them to Olga.

25 October - Monday

Left Hove 10.30 for London, saw Henderson for 5 minutes, he knows nothing, is afraid that some political interest may put Inglefield in to succeed him.

On to Cambridge and drove to the Revd. S A Donaldson, the Master of Magdalene College, who I found was the husband of Lady Albina, daughter of my old friend the late Lady Hobart and sister of Lord Buckinghamshire. Many ladies in at tea, one of them daughter of Colonel Crawford who I also knew. The Bishop of Ely and his staff came to dinner. Disappointed to find he was not a TT.

After dinner Bishop took Dr Saleeby the other speaker and myself on to the Town Hall in his motor. Hall was full, but not more than 70-80 Undergraduates there. Bishop and Vice Chancellor, and the Mayor all spoke and then I spoke for 20 minutes and got in as much as I could. Dr Saleeby then for 40 minutes, a most able address on how Alcohol injured the unborn children. We finished at 10 pm. Dr Butler, the Master of Trinity, 76 years, proposed vote of thanks to the speakers in polished and exquisitely well turned phrases, throwing in a touch of humour also, and afterwards he thanked me for my address, holding my hands.

We returned to the Lodge, Magdalene College and had a very interesting talk in the Smoking Room, Dr Saleeby leading the conversation. Lady Albina, well read and intellectual, several small children and grown up son. Young Mills of the Cornwall Reg. there, son of my old friend Lady Kathleen. She died when he was only two years old.

26 October - Tuesday

Took a walk round the Colleges, and over St John’s and into King’s Chapel and home by the backs. Most interesting. Home by 3 pm to my beloved wife and children.

29 October - Friday

This evening sitting at dinner with Olga, a letter arrived from Sir John Fisher. We both feel uneasy. Sure enough, he wrote private and confidentially that the Treasury had finally decided not to pay for a Vice Admiral at the Reserve Office, and so no hope for me. What a blow. Apparently nothing else before me. I wrote to Sir John and said “What a great blow it was to me, for I had worked so hard in the Reserves Office, and as Deputy to ACR in Ireland” and as Drury told me, I had been practically nominated for the post. I do feel it.

I also told Sir John “I would take it at any salary, if it was only a question of pay.” I wonder if the reason is the real one. I must believe it is. In any case, God over rules everything and I am thankful to say, though very disappointed, I am not discontented, but feel I can absolutely put my trust in my Lord and Master.

Wrote to Bertie and asked him to sound Sir Francis Hopwood, regarding a Governorship.

My old friend Colonel Sherrard turned up, on visit here with Mrs Sherrard.

30 October - Saturday

Visited Palestine Exhib’n. yesterday afternoon. Most interesting addresses from Rev Schor on Shepherd life and from Dr Schofield on the Board of the Tabernacle.

Walked with dear Olga, who has been such a comfort and wise advisor to me in my trouble, down to Brighton and back. Lovely weather. Sherrards and McAlpines came to tea. Admired the house very much.

31 October - Sunday

Lou and I to Church. An excellent address from Hubert Brooke. Walked back. Pasteur Ramette to lunch. Olga bilious attack, could not appear.

I wonder what I can do to add to my income. I just cannot manage Stevie and Lou’s education.

1 November - Monday

Took the Chair for the Medical Town Mission, first paying a visit to the Mission at 10 o’clock this morning and speaking to the assembled women and children, about 80, for a few minutes. Much pleased by what I saw.

Meeting at Pavilion well attended.

4 November - Thursday

Spoke at Meeting of British and Foreign Bible Society. The Vicar of Hove (Bishop of Lewes) in Chair. God gave me power to speak forcibly.

Dear Olga left this morning for The Elms.

5 November - Friday

Took Lou to the Dentist yesterday, Dr Uhtoff. Dined with the Sherrards at 3 Oriental Place.

7 November - Sunday

An excellent sermon from Greenswick [?] My sake and the Gospels. Lou and I much enjoyed it. A farewell sermon before going to the Mission Field. He was full of God’s Holy Spirit.

This evening I attended Meeting house, which used to be Campbell’s old Church and is now run by Colonel Philips. Mr Stuart preached. I was on the platform and a young boy of 14, McGill, and Stuart told me he was son of Admiral McGill, my old friend. We entered the Service together and went to sea in the Narcissus. He told me that Mrs McGill converted and became a RC and induced her husband to do the same.

Now she bitterly regrets it and the priests are fighting hard to prevent them returning to the true faith.

Germaine, the French Maid went with me.

“ My sake and the Gospels.” What a lot in those words. I pray that they may be engraved on my heart.

Olga returns to-morrow, I am glad to say.

8 November - Monday

Left this morning for Folkestone, a tedious journey, changing at Lewes, Hastings and Ashford. At the latter place walked up and saw the Parish Church, which is surrounded by a square of small houses, some very old, a paved pathway between them and the church railings.

The Church contains three very fine monuments in a very good state of preservation.

Was met by Admiral FitzGerald at the Station and we walked to 1 Trinity Crescent. Mrs FitzGerald and two daughters at home. The Admiral getting very deaf and of course most abusive about Jack Fisher. The ladies accompanied me to the meeting.

The Archbishop took the Chair and the bishops of Croydon and Rochester and many divines on the platform. I spoke first and then a clergyman and then the Archbishop. About 600 people present. I laid stress on the Total Abstinence side of the question. Was very well received. The Archbishop - a diplomatic address - and there can be no power in advocating half measures.

9 November - Tuesday

Returned home. This time at Ashford attended the fair, as I had an hour to wait there. On my return home, found my beloved wife returned from The Elms.

11 November - Thursday

Left at 8.15 am for Carlisle, where I arrived at 6 pm. Met by the Rev Phillips (Diocesan Sec for C.E.T.S.) and drove to the Deanery, where I was welcomed by the Dean and Mrs Barker (daughter of the late Sir James Ross of Arctic fame). The Dean is a very thorough Liberal and is a T.A.

After dinner we drove to the County Hall, about ¾ full, a good number of men. The Bishop having a bad throat could not take the Chair, so the Dean did so. The suffragan Bishop of Barrow was on the platform and many clergy. I spoke for nearly 35 min. and by God’s blessing, to the point and was thanked by several of the clergy afterwards.

After returning to the Deanery and refreshments, the Dean and I talked from 10 until midnight on the deep mysteries lying around us as to sin, misery and pain, and I could see these things troubled him somewhat. I pray our conversation was helpful to us both.

12 November - Friday

The Deanery dates from the 12th Century and is most interesting, the Square Tower especially. We breakfasted in the tower room, walls 6 feet thick and arched over by stone, where the cattle used to be driven into, at the times of the border wars. One of the beautiful oak ceilings in Drawing Room is 13th Cent, also the fine wood carved chimney piece.

It is full of Art treasures, which the Dean inherited. Two fine Dresden figures, he told me were appraised at £700 each.

I attended the Cathedral morning service. Dean and 5 clergy, 20 Choristers and congregation myself and 2 women. Morning service and Litany rattled through and sung well. No doubt Religion but where is the spirituality?

I saw the Dean eyeing me several times to see what I was thinking of (I was in one of the Stalls). My thoughts were “Can this be real spiritual worship, offered up like this twice a day?” After service I was shewn all over this most interesting Cathedral, dating from 11th Century and onwards and the beautiful wood carving and roof, all so old and the stone being of red sandstone. The building with its very fine East Window, presents a very soft effect, the sun shining in.

Left at 12 o’c for Kegworth and arrived at The Elms, 5 pm. Found Miss Turnell here and Charlotte looking very well and cheery.

14 November - Sunday

Musical and soulless service at St Michael’s. The same tracasseries going on in the neighbourhood. Everyone at daggers drawn with Hamilton and his wife, the Rector of Sutton St Anne’s. Yearsley and wife, Rector of Sutton Bonington, in favour. Too dreadful. Poor Charlotte. Miss Turnell adding fuel to the fire, says ditto to every word of above.

Had tea with Mrs Dashwood 90 years of age (full of go and life) yesterday. Had a very pleasant Committee meeting last night at C. House, and thanked them for looking after it so well.

Very seedy last night, sick a dozen times, so did not go to Church this morning. Read 15, 16 and 17 Chapters of John. What a comfort to rest and trust a gracious Father for all things, when disappointed or otherwise. Job 31.4 “Doth he not see my paths and order my steps.”

Had tea with Major and Mrs Tennant and spent some time with them.

15 November - Monday

Saw Hamilton. He said Sir Ernest Paget had disliked him on account of his opposing him at Parish Meeting. Can quite believe it. Had tea with Pagets. Sir Ernest said Hamilton was a brute and so it goes on.

Left for Hove, first going to Oddy, 5 Duchess Street and had tooth stopped.

Meeting Bertie at Club for 5 pm and had a talk over my disappt.. He thought as I do also, that if Sir John Fisher had liked to make a point of it, with the Reserves, I should have got the appointment.

Got home 5 pm and rejoined my beloved wife and dear children.

16 November - Tuesday

Went to Brewood and to Sophy Simpson. Addressed C.E.T.S. Meeting in School Room, badly lighted and lack of enthusiasm. Rev. Mr Dunkley, Rector, spoke, then I did for 25 min, but did not feel I had made any impression. Badly lit and arranged. Had to stand on table for platform.

17 November - Wednesday

Returned to The Elms having spent 16/- on fare and tips. Glad I have seen Sophy, now 75 and frail.

18 November - Thursday

A very good meeting at the Temperance Hall. Charlotte, Hamilton, Mrs Hamilton and Mrs Yearsley there. Poor Yearsley in bed with cold. Hall quite full, many young men and women there. I spoke for 40 min. on Temperance in the Navy and advocating it generally. Hamilton spoke for 5 min and spoke so nicely about the influence Father had in the village and was still felt. Everyone enjoyed the meeting for I made it very interesting.

19 November - Friday

Had a talk to Hamilton. He probably lacks tact, but he does a lot of spiritual work in his parish and is liked, whilst as far as I can see Yearsley, the last 40 years has done nothing to speak of. Hamilton is an earnest spiritually minded man. The ladies make the mischief.

20 November - Saturday

I finish this journal with disappointment and get confidence in the truth of Psalm 139 verse 17 “How precious also are thy thoughts unto me O God, how great is the sum of them.”

I heard this morning from Reggy Henderson that Inglefield was to succeed him. Sent a wire to dear Olga, I know how she will sympathise with me. I still hoped against hope I might get it. Now it is all over. What I am to do to meet expenses, I know not. However, when I remember last spring and my anxiety then, I feel I must be thankful and should praise God.

Charlotte very sympathetic.

24 November - Wednesday

Took the chair at Mrs Twiss, for the Protestant Reformation Society. Mr Limbrach and Mr Lang (Local Missionaries) spoke. Most interesting account of the work and how the aggressive work of the Roman Catholics is met.

Returning, accompanied Olga to tea at Lady Holled Smith’s. A large number of people there. Yesterday, I went to tea at General Rideout’s as Olga could not go. Met some people there. Mrs and Miss Rivers, Mrs Chichester, Lady George Loftus, Miss Egerton and others. The old General is a Crimean and Indian veteran.

25 November - Thursday

Olga and I to tea, at General Sir Wm. and Lady Seymour. A great number of people there. General S. 80 years of age, an old Crimean and Indian veteran. Had an interesting talk with him, also Gen. Chapman, who was through the Mutiny.

I asked one young lady if she had seen my wife. She said no, but I have seen your daughter and pointed dear Olga out to me, who certainly might easily be my daughter, she was looking so pretty and charmingly young.

Olga and I walked back, both agreed that it will not do to be going out to a lot of tea parties, most of the people having different aims to ourselves, and many rich. I fear we shall have to owe money to Woodhead.

29 November - Monday

Yesterday Bertie and Mabel came down for the afternoon.

1 December - Wednesday

Harry Shaen came down to luncheon. I had not seen him for 50 years. Olga and I both liked him. He is engaged as a broker in Woollens.

He comes to Europe every year, goes to Paris, visits designers etc, sees what designs are likely to be the fashion, goes to different Mills in Germany and England and has patterns made, then sends them to large wholesale dealers, who select patterns and then Harry orders them to be made at the mills and sells the material by the cart load.

In course of conversation, I found my Uncle (his father) was of an old Essex family and that Harry and my sister Meta were born within a few days of each other at Manchester in 1852, the same lodgings. Evidently my mother and her sister living together for the time being.

He also surprised Olga and myself by telling us old Mr Perry was his Uncle, his first wife being a Miss Shaen. Two of Harry’s Uncles are lawyers in London and two maiden Aunts live, one in London, Upper Phillimore Gardens and another in country, the latter takes waifs and strays down to her place.

He told us all about his wife Cursty (German American) and his daughter nearly 17. Very musical (Ethel). He plays duets with her every night. I should think he was fairly well off, as he is fond of yachting and had one Kinassa, a large schooner, 7 in crew. He said he found it too much expense.

Yesterday, saw Inglefield gazetted to the Reserves. I could not help feeling it should have been my name. Bertie thinks Fisher has not played the game. I think so too. I should feel very depressed at the thought of what I have lost and financial trouble before me, but for the knowledge, and I thank God, belief that He is leading me through the wilderness journey.

6 December - Monday

Heard from Inglefield, Secretary to Lloyds, saying Naval officers, principally through Admiral Chatfield’s mismanagement of mail steamer line, are at a discount in the City, and he is afraid that there is not much chance of my getting anything.

Biked to Mrs Roundell, an oldish lady living in Sussex Square, g.daughter of Capt. Halliday of Repulse, a ship my g.father was in at the time, off Toulon in the old war and she lent me books on the Tollemaches and I lent her Father’s journals, giving an account of his visit to Lady Hester Stanhope in the Lebanon in 1832.

Mrs Roundell’s Uncle, Lord Tollemache, she told me, married twice and had 27 sons and 1 daughter.

10 December - Friday

Went to London, lunched with Francie, had a yarn with Ted in bed recovering from an abscess and down to Wandsworth. A miserable wet day, dined with the Vicar and on to the Town Hall to the C.E.T. Forward Meeting. Only half full, if that. I spoke for 25 min and others spoke.

Collection so small, I had to waive my expenses some 17/- which I did not like doing, owing so much. Captain Wonham accompanied me back to Clapham Junction. I got back to 30 Belgrave Road at 11.15 pm and found Bertie waiting up for me.

11 December - Saturday

Went to the Admiralty and saw McKenna the First Lord and asked him to consider me for anything a Vice Admiral could have. He said he was very sorry about the Reserves, but that the Treasury would not run the risk of having a full Admiral there again.

I told him that I would not be an Admiral for another 2½ years. I then said, I should like to be considered for a K.C.B. on account of my services and to continue the family traditions, etc. He was very sympathetic and said he would see if he could give me something to do, that would enable him to ask for it for me.

We then talked about politics and he told me a MP friend of his said that in his district there were 80 Public Houses and in each a paid Agent of a Brewers giving liquor away to desirable voters.

Wrote to Fisher, asking for an interview. He sent a wire for Friday next, which I found on my return to Albany Villas.

12 December - Sunday

Paid Strickland a visit.

13 December - Monday

To Chatham, first paying the dentist (Oddy) a visit. Arrived at Admiralty House about 5.30 pm. Driven there by the Flag Lieut. in Admiral’s Fiat Motor.

Found Bishop of Rochester and Mrs Harmer staying there. Lady Drury very pleasant and homely (was a Miss Leslie from Scotland) and had an early dinner and then we all went to the Town Hall for the C.E. Temperance Meeting. The Bishop of Rochester in the Chair.

The Hall only half filled. The C-in-C in Mess Dress was there, also Admiral Ommanney and a lot of clergy. I spoke first and I think interested the people. I finished by saying that in my opinion if the Society was to make headway, all the leaders, clergy and laity, should be T.A.’s.

Dr Pereira the Bishop of Croydon spoke very well and most interesting and I am sure he is a very thorough man, which I do not think some of our Bishops are. Some of them, especially those who have been Schoolmasters, seem too cut and dried and lack that touch of spiritual nature.

14 December - Tuesday

Robbie 53 years old. Writing to him.

Home, travelling up with Lady Drury.

Lunched with Francie, who was seeing her Cook off the premises, £80 a year, been ill some time.

It appears that the Cook has been, the last six months, entertaining her fiancé to dinner and other meals regularly every night and even the kitchen maid has had her dinner parties and the Cook’s married sister, has fed her children a great deal down below.

How all this can go on beats me. I suppose no servant will interfere or tell tales with another. Now Francie is getting a Housekeeper for her 10 servants.

Found dear Olga and the children quite well.

15 December - Wednesday

Olga went to town and returned. Stevie arrived from Dartmouth looking very well and grown to nearly 5 ft, being 4 ft 11 in. Delighted to have him home once more.

17 December - Friday

Went to town and saw Lord Fisher in Board Room. Very friendly walking up and down with me, arm in arm. I told him that I had come to say good bye to him and as a Senior Officer wished to say, how much all he had done was appreciated in the Service.

He told me that the Admiralty had written twice to the Treasury, asking that I should go to the Reserves, but that they insisted on a Rear Admiral being appointed. I told him I wished he would leave a recommendation for me to his successor. He said, “It is already done, a Memorandum has been left about you.”

I then said, I could not see much chance, as no vacancy was likely to arise for some time and I should like to join the Peerage of the Navy. He then told me Lady Fisher wished me very much to come to lunch, so over I went at 2 pm and found Cecil Fisher there. We had a talk together.

At lunch Lady Broughton, a cousin, was there, who knows Violet Leigh and Arethusa very well, been lately staying at Bantry House, and Mrs Nield, daughter of the Fishers. Lord Fisher joined us later.

After lunch a very interesting talk on Free Trade etc, I being an upholder of it. Lord F the same. He told me that he had during the five years, had 14 Cabs ! waiting at different times to take him away on resignation!!!!

Lord Rosebery wrote and asked him which side of the house he was going to sit. He said on the cross benches and quoted the following lines:

Sworn to no party,

Of no sect am I.

I can’t be silent

And, I will not lie.

Got back by the 3.40 and joined Olga and Stevie at the Phillips, where we met the Tryons. He is a candidate for Brighton and he asked me all about General Surgeon Evatt, the Liberal candidate whom I know very well.

22 December - Wednesday

A visit from Captain and Mrs Kelham, cousin of my cousin Harry Kelham. They are down here on a visit. It was rather amusing. On Olga coming into the room, Mrs Kelham shook hands and said “Your eldest I assume” and which on my saying “my wife” made Mrs Kelham and Olga roar with laughter.

This is the third time during the last few weeks that dear Olga has been taken for my daughter. Mrs Wemyss Steward also took her for my daughter. Evidently shewing that she is keeping her years and I am ageing in appearance.

X.Mas Day - Saturday

A very happy family party. Stevie, Lou and self to Church, St Margaret’s, an excellent address from Hubert Brooks. Stevie and I stayed for the Communion, the first that we have taken together.

29 December - Wednesday

A lovely sunny day, a summer warmth on the front. I have put the house on the Agent’s books at 6 gns a week for six months, or a year, as we must go abroad, on account of the heavy expenses. Already in debt and only getting deeper in the mire.

What a difference if I had been appointed to the Reserves and should be getting over £6 a day this week.

However, it does not do to think of it, only breeds discontent, and today, I thank God, I do trust Him, whatever betides. We are a spectacle to the unseen world and glorify God and Christ Icons by our faith and thus manifest his Glory.

Have been much in prayer, that I may be led aright with all the heavy expenses I have to meet, and break up the pleasant home life in this house.

Called on the Carton Lees at the Hotel Grand. He knew Olga before she was married. Is a Barrister in London. Pleasant people. Stevie dined with them and stayed to fancy dress dance at the Hotel. His brother is in Command of the 4 Hussars. Lady Tryon sent me book written by her son, Capt. Tryon on Tariff Reform. Candidate for Brighton.

30 December - Thursday

Olga, Stevie, and self to Town Hall, Hove, 8 pm, to hear Captain Tryon and Rice speak. Sir John Gordon also spoke. Tryon spoke earnestly, but crudely. Rice tried to be funny and Gordon posed as an impartial man, but made some poisonous remarks against the Budget. About 500 people present.

31 December - Friday

Bertie and Mabel came down to Brighton until Tuesday. Stevie and I joined them at the Metropole and went on to the Pier.

Henderson retired today and Inglefield my supplanter takes up the appointment to the Reserves. I dare not think of this trial that has come to me, which if I had obtained the appointment, would have freed me from debt, enabled me to provide a proper education for the children and saved something for them.

My dear wife, well. I won’t think of it and will bury the thought in the old Year, and looking forward with hope and faith in a gracious loving Father, who I know and will believe, is leading me through this wilderness journey. I am most grateful as I look back at all the many mercies vouchsafed to me and all our dear ones, especially that relief from what I thought might be a terrible disease last April.

So ends 1909.

1910

1 January - Saturday

Olga, Stevie and self attended the Liberal Meeting in the Hove Town Hall. Very crowded and most enthusiastic, the two Liberal speakers spoke very well. Surgeon General Evatt very strong in the Social side of the question and both very down on the House of Lords. Evatt made one irreverent remark which pained me very much. The place was crowded, hardly standing room.

2 January - Sunday

To Church with Stevie and Lou and we all liked the new clergyman, Wilson.

Evatt came in about 7 o’c and stayed until 8.30 pm talking to Olga and I. I frankly told him what a lot of harm he did in speaking at all in an irreverent way and then spoke very clearly and explicitly on the Navy and its tremendous duties and responsibilities en visage with the German Navy. On going away he thanks me very much and said he had learnt a lot.

3 January - Monday

I omitted to mention that Olga had a most successful tea party on Saturday. Amongst them was Mrs Tryon, the wife of Tory candidate and a most charming personality.

To-day I lunched with Bertie and Mabel and then attended the meeting at Pavilion, for the week of Universal Prayer. Brigham and I then had tea with the Kelhams at the Grand Hotel. Met Bertie and Mabel, who had been having tea with Olga. Lady Tryon and also Lady Bowden Smith being there also.

Curious that though I have been at a Prayer Meeting, I felt impatient and cross at home on my return. I fear that it is financial pressure that affects me and no certain outlook. This must be watched and prayed against.

8 January - Saturday

Yesterday Olga and I went to Lady George Loftus, meeting many people there, all I should say rank Tories and Tariff Reformers. It is extraordinary how the ordinary person, and also politicians do not see that more than 50% of our crime, pauperism, unemployment, bad housing and misery comes from the drink question.

The other day, lunching at Lady Tryon’s I met Hon. John Gordon and Baron de Worms. I told the former that until the Conservatives cut their connection with the Liquor Trade, they would never have the support of the bulk of the Teetotallers.

Baron de Worms was holding forth on money being sent out of the country. Later on, I mentioned the fact of the special edition of The Times of 94 pages, all relating to the advantage of investing in South America. He said “It was an excellent investment, South America.” I said “But, this is sending money out of the country. Is this good nationally?” Well he replied “No, but it is good individually!!!.”

10 January - Monday

Dear ED’s birthday. Our dear boy left for 30 Belgrave Road, to spend a few days in London, before returning to Dartmouth.

11 January - Tuesday

Olga and I to the East Brighton Golf Links to inspect.

My host (Rev’d Mr Reed) at Wandsworth called and we had a long talk together on Temperance.

12 January - Wednesday

Took Chair for Mrs Sykes on behalf of the Ragged School Union. Sir John Kirk and Mr Downing Wallis spoke. Held at the Imperial Ladies Club, First Avenue. Room quite full. Mr Wallis spoke very well and touchingly. Olga and Lou present.

Heavy bill for Lou’s schooling come in. We owe about £190 including Stevie’s accounts. I see no way, but to clear out as fast as we can to France and sell out. I feel it is selling out the dear one’s sustenance, in case I am called away.

14 January - Friday

Lou and myself down with heavy colds, Ella’s birthday. She is busy electioneering for Colonel Lucas - Kennington Borough. King has had a fine week down here, lots of sun.

17 January - Monday

All down with colds. Heard from ED, who has been staying with Mrs Hornby, wife of Capt. Hornby, in command of Vernon Torpedo School. Mrs H told ED that the general opinion why I had not got the Reserves was that I would refuse to be made a tool of, and would refuse to shut my eyes to what I would not agree to.

19 January - Wednesday

Everyone down with colds. Madge in bed, Olga bad neuralgia and chills. I went to town, saw Bertie and then lunched with Francie and Ted, meeting Baldie, who walked back to the Station with me.

Tryon and Rice in for Brighton, thumping majorities. Many bitten by Tariff Reform, and no one can explain it. Wrote Lady Tryon and Mrs Tryon saying apart from politics and policy, I congratulated on son and husband getting in. Wrote to Charlie Beresford to the same purport.

Sorry to say that the Liberals have done badly in the Counties.

21 January - Friday

Dear Stevie’s 17th birthday. Sent him a wire. How well I remember the very trying time my dear Olga had. Olga and I offered up a prayer for my boy in my study.

Heard last night from the Chaplain of the Fleet, to whom I had sent the paper I had read at the Imperial Institute, at the International Congress on Alcoholism. He regretted that I had not alluded more to the work done by the Chaplains in the Navy. Replied with a soothing letter.

24 January - Monday

Doctor Molson in on Saturday for Madge, stayed after tea for 2½ hours talking to Olga on theological matters.

Still bronchial.

27 January - Thursday

Stayed in bed all day, nursed by my beloved wife. Heard from McKenna, MacNamara and Mrs Tryon. Very cold weather.

28 January - Friday

Change of weather. SE and SW winds milder. Germane anxious about her mother, who is living in the midst of these great floods in Paris.

31 January - Monday

Colds still hanging about the house. Dr Molson came this evening. Wish my throat would get well.

Heard from Bertie of Battenberg having fallen down whilst inspecting the Venerable and been carried on board his flagship some short time ago. Bertie saw him at the Admiralty and did not think him looking well.

2 February - Wednesday

Lou and Madge both in bed with colds. Weather very changeable.

3 February - Thursday

Been elected Member of the Brighton and Hove Golf Club. No entrance fee, so save 5 guineas. They require numbers to get up, fortunately for me.

Lou better, Madge got flue and temperature. Dr Molson called in.

Heard from Battenberg, who condemns root and branch, the dividing up of the Intelligence Department. Asked me to go round and have a yarn with him, see how funds go.

Kestell-Cornish called, Sec. of the R.N.S.R.S. I liked him and found him different to what I thought him to be. His father was the late Bishop of Madagascar.

5 February - Saturday

Wrote to my friend Curzon-Howe as I read in the paper yesterday of the death from typhoid fever of their eldest girl, Victoria. Their children run along the same ages as ours.

Wet weather, but mild for the time of the year. Heard Aileen was far from well. Not looking after herself. Married last October.

7 February - Monday

Lou down again this evening with temperature. 6th visit of Dr Molson today.

9 February - Wednesday

Dr Molson, 8th visit this morning.

Reading the paper, saw Turkish Govt. had applied for a successor to Gamble. Wrote to Bertie by 9.30 am post, received wire 1.30 pm, caught 2.30 pm train, at Admiralty 4.30 pm.

Saw Bertie and Troubridge and Wilson (1st Sea Lord). Troubridge said there were several candidates, but that there was no doubt I was the man for the Post. Told me that the Turkish sailors were all right, but that the Officers were hopeless, there being 7000 instead of 700. The late Sultan, whenever he wished to placate the Navy, turned a lot of Petty Officers into Officers.

Troubridge said go to Wilson at once. He was most pleasant and though he did not say much, I could see he was favourably inclined and said he had my name down. However he said Gamble was not leaving.

On my return to Troubridge, telling him this, he said I have later news than the 1st Sea Lord. Talking to Troubridge, he said “It was not until I came as Private Secretary that I knew you ought to have had the Reserves and you ought to have gone there.” My old 1st Lieut. is a good friend to me.

Had tea with Bertie in his Office, the dear fellow made me take the fare and being in debt, I did so after much pressing and with reluctance.

At home soon after 7 pm, Olga and I long talk over it all and together humbly asked our Father to over rule it all. What a blessing to know that whatever happens, He is leading us.

10 February - Thursday

Dr Molson 9th visit. Dr Bullinger to tea. Visited my poor sick friend Dr Strickland.

11 February - Friday

To town, saw Dr Greville MacDonald who examined by throat and nose, etc, and said everything was quite well and healthy. Had a spiritual talk with him.

Met Bertie at the Admiralty, lunched together at the club. Saw ED at 28 Moore Street, seedy with a cold. Had tea with Mabel, meeting Lady MacGregor there and home by 7.30 pm.

13 February - Sunday

Little Madge down again. Dr Molson 10th visit yesterday. Today her temperature is 103°F. Bertie and Mabel down for the day. We walked with them. Bertie feels fairly sure that I will go to Turkish Navy. I have laid everything before God, asking humbly and I trust faithfully that I shall not go, unless His Presence goes with me and that He will decide. If I go, it will be His sending. If not, it will be His withholding.

14 February - Monday

Madge better. Dr Molson 11th visit.

15 February - Tuesday

Dr Molson 12th visit to see Madge, still temperature with influenza.

Spoke at Meeting (Temperance). Mr Figgis, Emmanuel Church for ½ an hour, much thanked. On my return at 9.15 pm Olga met me, and asked what it meant if 1 Lord wished to see me, and shewed me a telegram from Troubridge appointing meeting tomorrow with the 1 Lord.

16 February - Wednesday

Olga and I went up by the 8.45 am train from Brighton, full of hope and rightly so. In the strength of the telegram, we treated ourselves to a Pullman return and went to the Army and Navy where I went round selecting portmanteaus and various things, ready for a start. Olga having joined me from Oddy’s, who could not see her until 4.30 pm.

At 1.30 pm went to the Admiralty and there learned there was a hitch. We lunched at Naval and Military, where we met my old 1st Lieut. Stanhope, now Sec. Liberal Federation.

Then back to Ad. and I was summoned by 1 Lord, McKenna who said how much he regretted that owing to Turkish Government having made different plans, he could not offer me appointment as Adviser and practically head of the Turkish Navy.

It appears Gamble has manipulated matters, so that he shall draw £3000 a year and supervise the building programme of the Turkish Navy in England, and arranged for a junior Rear Admiral to go out at £2500 a year to Command the Turkish fleet and nothing else. Shewed me Gamble’s letter, he is very put out about it, saying Gamble has taken care to feather his nest, and left the higher policy to take care of itself. He is very sorry about my disappt. I told him that I had asked God not to send me unless His Pleasure went with me.

Troubridge having remarked to me, that Providence overruled everything, he said he had told McKenna how I looked at these matters. I thank God. He is so gracious to me. I went to the Club immediately 3.45 pm and telephoned to Olga at 60 Eaton Place. On to ED, who is seedy, at 28 Moore Street. Most affectionate and sympathetic and then on to 60 Eaton Place. Found Francie and Ted in. Both most sympathetic. Dear Francie unable to sleep last night, on account of excitement at my obtaining the post, as she and I suppose everyone thought.

I suppose there have been very few such shaves as this of mine. A post of Admiralissimo of a foreign Navy and £4000 a year, held to my lips and dashed away at the last moment. However, I truly thank God for His over ruling providence and feel most thankful, that I have been prevented going, as it would not have been blessed to me.

Dear Olga joined me at Station and we travelled back in Pullman and I do not suppose we shall luxuriate again like this for some time.

It is satisfactory to know and have it brought out, how well I stand with the Foreign Office and Admiralty, Sir Edward Grey being much struck with my name and record.

Now we must buckle to, try and let the house and pay off bills which now amount to £150, and expenditure exceeding income.

18 February - Friday

Dr Molson 14th visit. Madge still got temperature.

19 February - Saturday

Dr Molson 15th visit. Madge’s temperature suddenly went up to 103°F. Unable to diagnose case. She broke out into a profuse perspiration and complained of left ear. Dr M. a little afraid that the influenza was causing an abscess.

Telephoned to Homeopathic Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London for a nurse (Tel No 359, Holborn) at 4 pm. Nurse Wright arrived at 7 pm. Madge better this evening.

Visited Mrs Coppet [?] this afternoon. She is better, and yesterday my friend Strickland, who is also better.

20 February - Sunday

Dr M, 16th visit. A little uneasy about Madge this morning. Temp. 103°F, pulse 144, but this evening gone down to 101 and 120.

Ella came over from Emsworth looking very well and cheery. Very heavy rain and wind squalls this afternoon and evening.

21 February - Monday

Dr’s 17th visit. Olga, I can see suffering from over anxiety and worry.

23 February - Wednesday

Madge much better today I thank God.

24 February - Thursday

Left this morning for London. Lunched with Francie, who afterwards poured out all her troubles about Micky to me. He has behaved most badly to his mother, who has been shielding him from his father’s displeasure, even paying off his debts by giving up half her allowance £400. Yet this has not sufficed, as only a few days ago, Cox would have dishonoured his bills, but for Francie paying in by overdrawing her account.

Ted has threatened to take him out of the Army if he goes on getting into debt, so Francie carefully conceals all she is doing from Ted’s knowledge. Francie has now written to Micky to say that she has lodged money for his Mess Bills, but that any other cheques, Cox will dishonour and that when he returns from Egypt after Easter, he must apply to be seconded and go to North Nigeria.

Dined with Edie at 28 Moore Street and slept at 30 Belgrave Road. Dr M. 18th.

25 February - Friday

Took train to Plymouth. Met by carriage Fawkes sent and drove to Admiralty House and soon after accompanied by Lady Fawkes, drove to the Sailor’s Rest, for the Annual Meeting RNSRS. Fawkes presided. I spoke and several others. Miles, one of the Readers, spoke very well and then Russell one of the new Readers (came from a Training College) spoke the most outrageous trash, absolutely unspiritual. It had a very bad effect, as until then all that had been said was so to the point and spiritual. About 108 people present, and many came up and spoke to me afterwards, who remembered my dear old father.

One interesting occurrence at the meeting was the C-in-C reading out a letter written 35 years ago when he was Ad. Superin. at Devonport as Vice Admiral. As a testimonial to Mr Miles the Reader (who spoke) and then the C-in-C referred to my being present, the son as a VA, engaged in the same work.

Paid a visit to Cross and his wife at Ad. House, D.port. What memories rushed through my mind as I sat in the Drawing Room where my dear Mother died in my arms in 1875. A birth and a marriage also took place in the house.

Ad. Galloway dined at Ad. House and after he had gone, Fawkes and I had a long talk over naval matters in general.

26 February - Saturday

Dr M. 19th visit. Went out to Cemetery and visited the grave where my Mother, sister and brother are buried, or rather the tabernacles in which they lived.

Took train in the evening for Dartmouth and was met by Stevie and his friend Austin (great g.son of Sir Francis Austin). His g.father was Chaplain in the Vindictive, my father was the 1st Lieut; Cdr Nobel. Sir F Austin the Admiral who had not been to sea for over 30 years.

Stevie and Austin, who had just returned from a 30 mile bike ride, 18 hole golf course and hiking, dined with me and I walked back with S. to the College. S. very well. Great pleasure seeing him again.

27 February - Sunday

Up to the College, met by S, who took me all over the place, most interesting and the completeness of the place, quite surprised me. No money has been spared.

Stayed to Divine Service and spoke to Wright the Chaplain, whom I knew in the Med. when I was Chief of Staff. Met Bullen the Com. and S’s Lieut Nicholson, both spoke so very well of Stevie. Left a card on Capt. Napier, who is unwell.

After lunch S. and I walked out to Rockvale (3 miles out). my old messmate Farwell’s place. He was Assistant Paymaster in the Druid in 1879 ‘80 and ‘81 and now S. Paymaster. Mrs Farwell very nice, had tea there. Both spoke most affect. of S, which pleased me much.

Then we returned and called on the Barringtons and then to Hotel where we dined and I returned with S. to College, remaining there until 9 pm and sending for several of the boys. Startin, Curzon- Howe, Flynn, Watson, Troubridge.

I remained outside the building a little time after bugle had gone, thinking.

28 February - Monday

Dr M, 20th. First walked to the work shops and shewn over them by E. Lt Carlisle. He and Eng. Com. Taylor both spoke most highly of S, which warmed my heart. I was mightily surprised at observing the work of the Cadets and much gratified at being shewn some of S’s drawings.

Took train to Kingsbridge and met by Flynn and Reader Derrick. Went to the Rectory, and had lunch there. Had a Drawing Room Meeting for R.N.S.R.S. Returned to Flynn’s house, 6 Albermarle Villas, Stoke, D.port and stayed there. Met Mr Goldsmith at dinner.

1 March - Tuesday

6 Cory Street, D.port. Couch met me, and we walked into D.port and I inspected the Royal Sailors Rest. Most excellent. Couch was in Indus with my father and told me some interesting reminiscences about him.

Took train for London and arrived home at 7 pm to my regret found Madge had had a set back. Temp up again and also pulse.

One of the ladies who came to the Drawing Room Meeting at Kingsbridge was Miss de Burgh, who nursed me through my illness of Malta fever at Chorley Wood.

3 March - Thursday

Dr Molson’s 21st visit.

5 March - Saturday

Dr Molson’s 22nd visit. Madge still has temperature up to 101.6 again today. I cannot make it out. She is cheerful generally, though down at times. Sleeps well early in the morning, her temp. is below normal.

Very trying on Olga, this long illness.

Olga and Lou went up to town yesterday. The latter to Oddy who is going to deal with her teeth. The expenses are very heavy. Had to sell out £200 of Olga’s money.

6 March - Sunday

Madge, I thank God is decidedly better. Temperature gone steadily down. Easterly winds last few days. Sun however very warm. Paid a visit to my friend Strickland, looking very well. I fear he may pass away, any time, in these fits of coughing that he has. Offered up words of prayer to our loving Saviour. May God bless me to him.

Olga better spirits. Now Madge is better. It has been an anxious time for her.

7 March - Monday

Dr Molson’s 23rd visit.

Madge’s right ear hurt her from 6 pm until midnight.

8 March - Tuesday

Madge in great spirits this evening, though temperature has gone up to 101.6°.

9 March - Wednesday

Madge this morning had temperature, but this afternoon it has gone down and she is in good spirits. Left ear still discharging.

10 March - Thursday

Dr Molson’s 24th visit.

Went to Portsmouth and lunched with Miss Weston and Miss Wintz and then went to Rest and saw how all the accounts were kept. Most wonderful organisation. Cdr Pratt-Barlow called and had tea at the Rest. Admiral Acland called on Miss Weston to express his sympathy for her and disgust at the attacks being made on her, by that socialistic print The Fleet and Mr Yexley, backed up by that agnostic Captain S Hall of the Submarine Service.

11 March - Friday

Madge’s temperature 102.8° at Noon. Very discouraging and it is very pathetic to see the little mite in bed, so patient and uncomplaining.

Olga and Lou obliged to go to London for Dentist. Bertie, most generously sent a £10 cheque asking me to accept it as a loan, to assist with Doctors and Nurses.

13 March - Sunday

Madge is better. Less temperature yesterday and today.

Olga, Lou and self to St Margaret’s Ch. An excellent address from the Curate. I had a talk with Lou after lunch, for some little time. What will the future be for her? Everything depends upon what influences she comes under, for she is very impressionable in many ways, artistic and musical, yet has opinions of her own.

14 March - Monday

Dr Molson’s 25th visit.

Went out and had a good game of golf. Received a letter from my dear brother, asking me to accept as a loan £10 towards Madge’s expenses.

15 March - Tuesday

Dear Bertie’s 48th birthday. Wrote to him.

16 March - Wednesday

Dr Molson’s 26th visit.

18 March - Friday

Snowing at intervals. Cold NE wind. Madge better, but not out of bed yet.

Spending about £15 on the house, with a view to letting.

19 March - Saturday

Dr Molson’s 27th visit. Madge better, still in bed.

22 March - Tuesday

Just refused offer of letting house for 6 guineas a week for four months. We want 7 gns for four months and 6 gns for six months, otherwise it would not pay us.

25 March - Good Friday

On Wednesday and Thursday, I went out to play golf at the Dyke and much enjoyed the exercise and good air. Madge went out today for the first time in a Bath Chair.

26 March - Saturday

Dr Molson’s 28th visit.

Hospital nurse left today and Beatrice Sherrington-Morris came for a week to look after Madge. Her father was formerly in Comfortable Circumstances, but his partner speculated and he lost all his money.

28 March - Easter Monday

Glorious weather. Yesterday Pasteur Ramette lunched with us. Olga much enjoyed his address. Lou and I to St Margarets and heard also a very helpful address from Mr Wilson. Lou developed a cold in head. Madge went out yesterday for a little walk with Olga and self.

29 March - Tuesday

Olga and I lunched with Colonel and Mrs Gordon Watson at the Hotel Metropole. Almost 30 sat down. I was next Lady Dupplin and had Mr Gordon on the other side. An ex-Admiralty Official, now living at Brighton. Lady D. gave us her experience of Wimereux, which has quite put us off going there, and so our thoughts are turned to Germany.

31 March - Thursday

Dr Molson’s 29th visit.

Beatrice Sherrington-Morris leaves us this evening, an excellent trustworthy person.

3 April - Sunday - 8 pm

Heard by telephone from St John that Walter was in the Andover Cottage Hospital from a bicycle accident. Telephoned there and heard he was going satisfactorily.

To my surprise and delight, Robbie turned up from Paris, we had not met for six years. He spent the day with us, going to London full of schemes. I hope some will turn out satisfactorily. He suffers a great deal from his stomach and I did not think him looking well.

4 April - Monday

Busy in the house. The children nearly well.

5 April - Tuesday

Left for Dover at 10.15 and got there at 3.30 pm. Changing three times. Travelled part of the way with a Mrs Bell and her son, going to stop at Dover for the holidays. Widow of an Officer in the Army, been out in South Africa many years, find English climate very trying. On arrival, drove to Mrs Elverson of 12 Victoria Park, my hostess. Two daughters, also a widow. Earnest X.tian people and most hospitable and pleasant. A very nice house. Colonel Faukes and I walked down to the Town Hall for the meeting at 8 pm being the Naval and Military night of the Kent County Temperance Association. Colonel Bradley in the Chair and the Hall packed. I spoke for nearly thirty minutes and by God’s blessing spoke well. Faukes spoke a little longer. Every one said what a splendid meeting it was. Dr M. 30th visit.

6 April - Wednesday

Returned, travelling the first part of the journey with a very intelligent ‘traveller’, a Tariff Reformer. We had a great discussion, I being a Free Trader. He made some good points.

The last part I had as a companion a gentleman of between 60 and 70. Owns property and evidently has a large house near Liss. Has two very large motors and does a lot of motoring on the Continent.

Walter going on all right.

7 April - Thursday

Went to Portsmouth, disembarked at the Rest, met Miss Wintz there and went through many of the Books and investigated the methods of the management. All departmental. Miss Wintz has a wonderful business head.

At 3 pm attended a meeting of the Wives branch of the R.N.C.U. and R.N.T.S. and spoke to them on Acts 1 “One accord, prayer and supplication.”

Went after supper to the Turret [?], Lennox Mansions, where I met Miss Weston and stayed for the night. We had a long talk over the scandalous attacks that are being made on the work and on Miss Weston.

8 April - Friday

To the Rest and more inspections. I am astonished at the absolutely perfect method carried out not only in the management, but in the accounts. Every penny expended can be traced.

Inspected the Sailors Home. Clean, but lacks the refinement and comfort of the Rests. Cabins dark and gloomy compared to those at the Rests and altogether does not bear comparison.

Had a talk with Kestell Cornish, Sec. to the R.N.S.R.S.

After supper at the Rest, I spoke to the weekly rally of the R.N.T.S. enthusiastically received, about 100 present. Delighted to hear that there are 500 members alone at Eastney Barracks and 300 at Forton. Spoke on the grog question and the 1d a day. Returned to the Turret [?].

9 April - Saturday

Went to the Rest and was photographed by desire.

We are now making headway with the Officers, who have been too long neglected, so Lieut. Porch an excellent officer goes on board the ships every day, talking to the Officers and has had much success.

I have been surprised at finding what a lot of distress there is amongst the men’s wives and what a lot of help they get from Miss Weston.

Called at Emsworth, on the way back to Hove, had a yarn with Baldie who tells me Lady A. has left £100 to each of us. So she has evidently altered her will, for she had left me £1000, I understood. Baldie would not tell me how he knew, but he said it was accurate.

13 April - Wednesday

Our dear boy returned, having finished his time at the College looking very well and delighted to have him home again.

14 April - Thursday

My friend Strickland not at all well. Had a few words of prayer with him.

15 April - Friday

Olga, Stevie and self took the train to Dyke and started golf. Came on to rain and we had to return, much disappointed.

20 April - Wednesday

Heard yesterday from Bertie that Stevie had passed out 12th at Dartmouth. Not at all bad considering that there are 80 in the term. He is taking German lessons every night from 8 to 9 pm from a German.

No signs of letting. Finances in a very troubled state.

22 April - Friday

Olga, Lou and self to London, the two former to Oddy the dentist. I went first to 1 Great Cumberland Place, to Lord Charles Beresford, found that he had just been summoned to Marlborough House, so left message with Secretary and down to the Admiralty. Saw Bertie and lunched at the club, meeting Ad. Hoskyns there, who told me that the Pagets were making a great mess at Queenstown in the social line. Mrs French actually being taken into dinner by Grogan the butcher, I suppose as Chairman of the Local Urban Board.

Met Startin and he and I went up to the Queen’s Hall together and found Olga and Lou there, having finished with the Dentist.

The Meeting started at 3 pm and by God’s blessing, I spoke for 10 minutes and keeping everyone in order, kept to time most punctually.

Returned by the 5.40 from Victoria and on arrival found Stevie had received a telegram from Bertie saying he was in Part I.

The young German, Mr Drexel, 86 Buckingham Road came in the evening to talk German with Stevie, who is making great progress in the language.

24 April - Sunday

To St Margaret’s. I find the Service too long on account of the repetitions and find it hard to keep my attention.

Stevie with me. No one is a prophet in his own country, no father is an authority in his own family, not always.

27 April - Wednesday

Olga, Stevie and self went out to the Golf Links in the afternoon and much enjoyed ourselves. Dr M paid another visit yesterday.

1 May - Sunday

To St Margaret’s. A most powerful and helpful sermon from Mr Wilson. “Jesus findeth Philip... Philip findeth Nathanael.”

Stevie and Lou in the gallery, liked it very much.

Miss Marie Roberts and Mrs Stewart called. Stevie and I biked to Dr Strickland and had a talk with him. He and I prayed together.

Stevie is No 12 out of 77, three having dropped out. He has done well and I am very well satisfied and thank God for his success.

He leaves for The Elms to-morrow.

2 May - Monday

Stevie, dear boy, left us for The Elms today, looking very well and it has been a great pleasure having him at home.

3 May - Tuesday

Took the chair for the Women’s Union at a Drawing Room Meeting, at Miss Tudkin. Mrs Burrowes, wife of the Bishop speaking. I was able by God’s blessing to speak forcibly for about ½ an hour. Had previously lunched with the Burrowes.

4 May - Wednesday

Olga, Lou and self to town. Olga to try on at Philips, Sloane Street.

I took Lou to Oddy. It is an expensive job, her teeth. Lou delighted with the Tube. Never been in it before. Olga and I took her to the National Gallery, which she much enjoyed. It was a great pleasure taking her about.

Olga told us an amusing story, that Mr Philips, the ladies tailor told her this afternoon. He was unable to keep to himself what occurred the last time she came up to try on. A lady of title, so he informed Olga, saw her coming in and on her passing, said to Mr Philips “Who is that lady?” I must have a dress exactly like that if you made it for her (which he had), and so as Olga passed along, her dress unknown to her was being examined and the lady waited in the shop until Olga had finished, and Mr Philips engaged Olga in conversation, whilst Olga’s dress in front was being examined and an exact replica of it was ordered.

On our return, changing train at Preston Park, who should we find in the train with us, but Nini, who had telegraphed to 7 Albany Villas this morning, but we had left. Delighted to see her, and she stays until Friday morning.

5 May - Thursday

Left for Portsmouth 11.30 am. Lunched at Sailor’s Rest, meeting Lord Charles Beresford, Startin, Wintz and Horsley.

Meeting in the large Hall packed, started at 3 pm and my dear old friend Curzon-Howe in the Chair. He speaks all right, but I fancy cannot do much. Murmured to me, how trying he felt it all. Beresford and Miss Weston spoke very well and I proposed to CB and C-H. Meeting most enthusiastic. Indirectly all the recent attacks on the work were met very fully. General Trotter seconded vote of thanks.

Then CB went to the new block (called Beresford Block) and announced it opened. Went to the Billiard Room and he was photographed in the act of playing, missed an easy cannon, amidst much laughter. Many Admirals and Captains at the Meeting.

Left at 5 pm and called at Emsworth on the way back. Found Baldie there and had a yarn with him.

Beresford and I had a yarn on service matters and on one of his escapades in 1873 when he was Flag Lieut to Harry Keppel, who went up to be at the opening of the Breakwater of Holyhead by the present King.

I was there as additional Lieut, guest of Keppel. One morning, the day P of W was expected, H.K. could not find his full dress coat and Beresford who was in training for a steeple chase, left word that he had put it on, to get his weight down by sweating. I remember H.K. looking every where for C.B’s, and threatened if he could find it, that he would throw it overboard.

Bad news in to-day’s papers about the King’s health.

7 May - Saturday

Shocked to read of the King’s death at ¼ to twelve last night, though he had been up during the night, transacting business.

Nini left yesterday afternoon.

8 May - Sunday

Wilson at St Margaret’s preached a very strong and affecting sermon on the King’s death. Olga and I had a talk together about tendency to drift away from spiritual influence. As Olga said, perhaps our atmosphere is not right. I was led to read C. Morgan’s last sermon and he alluded to the necessity of a spiritual atmosphere, if our children were to be influenced.

12 May - Thursday

Meeting R.N.S.R. Society at the Church Room, St Johns, about 45 present. Rev Wilson (St Margarets) spoke well, as did Canon Flynn the Chairman. I also spoke.

13 May - Friday

Went to town to attend the Mission Deep Sea Fishermen Meeting, called at 60 Eaton Place, found Francie down with the influenza.

15 May - Sunday

An excellent sermon from Wilson. Lou liked it.

Sir John Leslie and his daughter Mrs Crawshay to tea. The latter a very interesting woman, and considered one of the best talkers in London. She was staying in a country house not long ago, with the present King George. She said he was like many Naval Officers, talking of two subjects, the Navy and domestic matters. He said to her, he hated Fisher and Winston Churchill.

Paid my friend Strickland a visit. He is much better.

17 May - Tuesday

Olga and self to Emsworth, where Olga spent the day with Baldie and ED. I on to Portsmouth and had lunch at the Rest, meeting Miss Weston and Miss Wintz and other Trustees. We had a long talk over everything. I returned to Emsworth and had tea there and we reached home soon after 8.30 pm.

23 May - Monday

A very successful meeting about 35 to 40 present squeezed into our dining Room. Dr Bullinger, Pasteur and Madame Le Coat lunched with us and spoke at the Meeting. About £12 collected.

25 May - Wednesday

Went to Southampton and arrived at 45 Portswood Place in time for lunch. Louisa Kinsey, my mother’s 1st Cousin, delighted to see me. Last time we had met was in 1859, when previous to my embarking on board HMS Tartar for passage to England, under the care of Captain Dunlop.

I slept at her father’s house Dr Gregor and there being not much room, was, as a boy of 8 put into her bed, she was 16. I kicked her so much, that she had to get out of bed and cried. She was my mother’s great friend and we were delighted to meet each other again. She is a great talker.

Florence Harris, the younger daughter, was there also and the first night we talked about the Forman, Cobb and Newell families until 11 pm. Florence sings divinely and has a great range, from the lower A to the upper E and has touched F; Patti’s highest note.

Her husband lives at Boston, New England and is very well off. The brother marries Countess Hilda Leiningen in August at Hamburg, who has been staying with Florence. The Kaiser gave his consent. Florence is small, very pretty and very literary and we had a very helpful spiritual talk together in the afternoon.

26 May - Thursday

Florence and I walked about the place and admired the fine Avenue of Trees. She is only just recovering from operation of appendicitis two months ago. During her three years of married life, she has gone through a lot of trouble. Her husband had appendix removed and Florence lost her little boy, two days old and nearly her own life.

Louisa asked me to read and pray after b’kfst.

27 May - Friday

Olga came over early to lunch. Louisa and Florence, both thought her so sweet and young looking. I felt sure she and Florence would like each other, both being kindred spirits.

Edie and Ella came later, and then Ella played Florence’s accompaniments most beautifully and Florence sang with great feeling, a very sympathetic timbre. Louisa told me, she had been offered £50 a week before she was married.

The present Prince de Rohan was most anxious to marry Florence, but she would not have him. His family did all they could to make up the match.

We all returned home by the 5 o’c train. Olga and I to Hove and the two girls to Emsworth.

Olga and I think we should go to Munich for the sake of Lou’s musical education.

28 May - Saturday

ED came for week end.

29 May - Sunday

Went to Mission Hall in the evening and heard Mr Henry Varley speak a very powerful address.

30 May - Monday

ED left. Had a conversation with Stevie on the telephone, who is staying at Emsworth for the night.

3 June - Friday

To Golf. Lost three balls. My caddy who was playing with me, on the strength of his saying he never lost a ball, losing one and the third I lost in a gully, taking a drive as train was just coming in and unable to search for it, so returned disgusted with myself. My iron strokes and putting good, but cut all my drives, through not following through.

4 June - Saturday

Stevie turned up about 4 pm looking very well and cheery and very happy on board his ship.

5 June - Sunday

Stevie, Lou and myself to St Margaret’s. Delightful having Stevie home. We all spent the afternoon in the garden. Photographed the children. Stevie left for Cumberland at Portsmouth. 7 pm train.

8 June - Wednesday

Lou and I to town. Lou being an hour and a half in the Dental Chair. Poor child, is suffering from having her teeth all over the place.

We went to the Academy and had tea with Mabel, and home. Glad to get back to fresh air and coolness from the noise, heat and oppressiveness of London.

15 June - Wednesday

Olga to town. On Monday last Rev Mr Austen came down to lunch and tea. He had not been home from Yokohama on leave since 1899 when he came with me as a passenger in the Narcissus. We had a long talk together.

18 June - Saturday

Olga, Lou and myself went to Emsworth, 8.45 am, for the Annual Sports at Baldie’s School. A lovely day. About 30 odd to lunch. Sir Edward and Lady Durand and other parents, etc. Everything went off very well, an exceptionally nice lot of boys, 20 all told. Most lavish refreshments at luncheon and tea, which was under the trees. Baldie told me the expenses would come to about £25. Bertie came down from town as did many others.

Captain and Mrs Hornby there, they motored us to the Station. Troubridge told Bertie it was most difficult getting any appointment for Vice Admirals. Not very hopeful for me, I fear.

23 June - Thursday

Lou and I to town for the dentist. A very expensive business, thence to Col and Mrs Watson. Leaving Lou there, I called at Francie, meeting Sir Albert Williams there, who had an heiress for Micky, so he informed Francie.

Micky much improved, so F says. More of a grown up man and a very charming one too.

Called at Mabel’s and came down with Lou at 6.35 pm.

26 June - Sunday

Bertie and Mabel to lunch, both looking well.

From conversation with Bertie, I could not help seeing that he thought my chance of getting anything more was very doubtful. The thought of it and the state of my finances and education of the children made me low in spirit, and I see that there is no chance of any further distinction which I should have liked for the sake of Olga and children.

Dear Olga saw I was low and she felt cast down too. However I thank God. We both knelt in prayer and I trust, believe that disappointments are God’s appointments. How strong the old nature and love of this world is.

Biked to St Margaret’s for Evening Communion.

2 July - Saturday

Yesterday, went to town, lunched with Francie and then called and had a long yarn with Mrs Troubridge, 107 St G. Sq, then to Oddy and had my teeth examined. All well, then Home.

Took Lou this afternoon to see the French Pictures, some very good, especially some of the Impressionist ones.

3 July - Sunday

Visited Strickland, had tea with the Loftus’s. He has Lupus, poor fellow.

5 July - Tuesday

Golf played badly, want of practice. Dear Olga coming with me enhances the pleasure of going out to the links.

7 July - Thursday

Wrote to Loftus asking him to let Dr Molson see him.