15/04/1933 from Patterdale Cumbria

to Saltburn

From Peter To Joan

My dearest Joan

Sorry I have not written before, thank you so much for the leather case, you have made it very well. You must enjoy the riding, I will bring some plus fours for it as I have nothing here. Am sorry I have brought no jazz music. I forgot it I have no music at all with me. I do not know if I shall have a new racket. If so you can have mine.

Doris left last Friday for good. She has another job in Sutton, at Mayfield, Grange Road. It is the same house that daddy lived when he was a boy and married from, is rather funny don't you think that Doris should go there. Ben is staying with Mr. Rowe but we shall have to find a home for him next week. Where would you like him to go, his leg is much better now.

We are staying at a house at the foot of Kirkstone Pass near Ullswater. This afternoon Bubbly and Don and I climbed up a high hill to find that when we got to about to what we thought was the top we found there was some more to do, this was very very rocky so we had to crawl on hands and knees.

The old lady where we are staying is a quaint are all Bird. If the weather is good we expect to stay here until Wednesday. Then I would drive straight across from Penrith to Saltburn. Well I hope to see you on Wednesday.

Much love from your brother Peter

PS for cakes or sends his love to four cakes

14/05/1933 To 18 Mulgrave Rd

From Joan To Peter

My Darling Pierre

So sorry I have not written before but I really haven't had time.

What has happened to Ben. I can't think why you don't give him or sell him to Beryl. I do think you might .

We had a tennis match yesterday and we won. I have been put on sub. For Florence in the tennis house matches.(May 15) I am not feeling very bright tonight and am writing this letter in bed. I have just got an order mark for talking in the Ref library this morning. And this evening while I was practising some tears came to my eyes because I was playing something that Mother played so beautifully.

How are you, did you manage to get that job at Morgan Baynes Clerk.

I have just had a good game of tennis this evening and may have a chance of getting into 14 and under match, but I don't think so. No more news dear.

Give my love to Mr Spouse and everyone else in the office ( ask Mr Spouse how many nobs of sugar he has had lately)

Your loving Joan xxxx Do come down soon

16/05/1933 From Office L A Dibdin Victoria St. or Mulgrave Road

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

How are you enjoying school this term and how is the tennis. I hope you have started the violin, do you like it.

Aunt E came down last week. She looks very well. Aunt Lettie came to Reigate last night and I took her back and put her on the train at Sutton just after 11.00. I saw great Aunt Letty on Friday. She is keeping fairly well, but Miss South is ill and has to go to the hospital, they don't know what the trouble this.

Mrs. Smith has asked me to spend next weekend with them at Weymouth, but I don't think I can as I have to be in town on Monday.

I have a letter from Uncle Joe, I will show you later also one I sent you from Aunt Marian and I have many others I will show you later.

Keep well and work well and playing well

With love darling from your ever loving Brother Peter

19/05/1933 From work address Mulgrave Rd

From Peter To Joan

My dearest Joan

I received your letter on Wednesday morning, it must have crossed mine. Auntie E went back today and I went to Kings Cross with Aunt Ger and Geoff to see her off.

We all went to the theatre last week and Wild Violets. It was all about schoolgirls at school every thing they do..

Ben is at present with the Muirs but I don't think he can stay there for long. I don't think Beryl would be allowed to have him, you ask her. Jolly good being put as a sub, you must get in the team next time

It won't do, you getting order marks, you must see to it that, that it does not happen again.

I did not go to major Baines and Clark. I have not tried to. I may be going to town soon. Auntie Ger and Geoffrey have gone away for a week or so to the lakes, and Uncle and I are left alone. He has borrowed the Unic and called it the Cumbus. He doesn't like it being so big.

Do you want your Mendelssohn, that Auntie Lettie gave you left, if so let me know. I would like one of the tennis rackets presses, you have you won't want two of them.

Joan darling bear up and go on playing that piece and play it well like mother did and as you know she would have wished. Remember dear that although we have lost them temporary there will be a reunion and it is not they we have to be sorry for but ourselves. They have done their work in this world and have been called to do greater things in another; although we have lost they have gained. And it is up to us to carry on the good work as we know they would have wished.

Cheer up old girl and hold a strong face as others have done before. All my love to you Peter

30/05/1933 From Sutton

From Peter To Joan

My Darling Joan

I received your letter this afternoon thank you my dear. Thank you for the horses they are very well done. I think one is going to win the Derby.

It is difficult to get rid of Ben. I have asked Mrs. Berry if she knows anyone who would have him and she thinks she does, and may sell him for £4.00 to somebody in the Sea Lane. She will let me know tomorrow, as I am going down to Cornfield can clear up the house to let for three men from Sunday again. Maney say she wanted a dog like Ben, but I have heard no more from her.

On the other hand, I have the Muirs to have her, I said I would give him to them for nothing, rather than sell him to some stranger for £4.00. They are looking after him now. Well on Sunday night they were out all for a walk with old Dan and Ben, when poor old Dan was run over by an motorbike, he died within a short time. Of course of they were all very cut up about it, and poor old Ben was very sad at the loss of his pal. So you see they might change their minds now and keep him after this. Don't you think you would like Muirs to have him rather than anybody, I would.

Auntie and Jeff are still away and may be back on Wednesday so we will be able to come and see you, that was very kind of the Kerrs to take you out with them.

I say Joan keep Auntie Marian's letters and all the others. I would like to see them some time, I have some more for you to see.

John, you know is going to China for two years to learn Chinese, so we shan't see him for two years or so, he was due home in two years from last Christmas.

Tell me do you want me too keep you Mendleson little ornament on your bedroom mantelpiece, if so let me know.

Puss has quite settled down at the Redfords. I called for her over the fence the other day but she wouldn't even look at me as much as to say, who are you, I don't know you. She seems very frightened when she comes into our house.

On Saturday nights we had a treasure hunt in cars, we started at Croydon and finished up at the top of Box hill, at about 12.30 AM. Sunday morning, we had supper there, about 30 cars in all, and after then eight of us in two cars drove down to Middleton and arrived at Cornfield at about 3.00 on Sunday morning, we got the blankets out of the airing cupboard and made the best of it. The four girls have the two double rooms between them and myself and the other chap call Brian made ourselves as comfortable as possible on two chairs put together in the lounge. The result was we did not get much sleep. The people opposite woke up and poked their heads out of the windows wondering what was happening.

In the morning they had a bathe and in the afternoon we went on a speedboat, about 50 miles per hour on the sea it was pretty bumpy.

Well dear I must close now as it is after 10.30 and I have to go to bed and get up in the morning and go to Bognor. All my love to you your ever loving Brother Peter

06/04/1933 To 18 Mulgrave Rd

From Joan To Peter

My Darling Pet.

Thanks for you letter I will send the racquet press as soon as possible or can you wait until you come down. I tell you what I want. I want a photo album as you have a spare one with corners for the photo's.

Peter I do want you to keep my Mendelssohn ornament also the centre picture of "Notre Dame" and my big hanging picture over my mantlepiece of "the little girls and the kittens". Also any other nice pictures in my room Christopher Robin Etc. I wish you could send me a shorthand book, haven't you got one in the office.

I have just written to Mrs Hulsberger the Dutch lady. Auntie says she might ask me to stay next holidays and perhaps you as well. It would be lovely if we could. If not I was thinking if there was any money going, for you and I to go to Chale say for a week or two. It would be very nice just you and I.

I am sorry the Hornet has got to go. I wish you could just "let" "Avondale" instead of selling it. I'm sure it would be just as good. Did you draw a horse for the Derby. There is here a girl whose father drew Heberinian the winner and I think he got something like £30000 (thirty thousand pounds).

I wish I could have been with you at Cornfield, who were the girls and the boy who slept ( at least lay awake) with you.

Will you tell me as soon as possible if you can come down next Saturday or Sunday, then I can ask Miss Burrows, and tell you what time I may be out.

Can I go home half term? Did you get a note from Miss Burrows saying that anyone within reasonable distance may go home and a girl is going who lives in Dorking and quite a lot of the others. I am very sorry about Dan and I hope the Muirs do change their minds and have Ben. Beryl said she couldn't have him because they would not be able to keep him in although they all wanted him.

I am looking forward to playing tennis with you, my racquet is still marvellous, the strings are still as good as they were when I bought it.

Peter is you violin any good because Miss Maggs said it would be very nice if I had my own violin and she would string it up for me, that is if you didn't mind me using it. If it is any good would you bring it down when you come, also some "racquet gut reviver"

must stop now Your own Joan xxxxxx

From Joan To Peter

Dearest Darling, Duck Divine

I am writing this to ask you exactly what I am going to do at half term. Can I come home or are you coming down. We had to give in or names today, and and say what we were doing and I had to say I don't know, but I must know as soon as possible.

How is Ben? Did the Muirs change their minds, I hope so.

Please don't forget the shorthand book. I was thinking, if we did not go to Holland or to Chale, it would be rather nice if you and I went down to Cornfield for about a week, that is, if it was empty. We should have to do all our own work, and if you did not make your own bed and clean you shoes and mine, I should be very cross with you and not give you any dinner. I could take a cookery book with me and get help from Mrs Verey. Must stop now Dear, no more time

Your loving sis Joan xxxxx

Give me John's address in Malay

Comment Chale is on the Isle of Wight . The family had spent a summer holiday there in 1932. No doubt happy memories of Joan. Lionel did painting of Shorwell Church

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Thank you dear for your letter; it doesn't matter about sending the racket press. And I will keep all the things you said if I can. I am enclosing two shorthand books as you asked, don't lose them will you.

Don't count on going to Holland, I don't think Mrs. Hulsbergen will ask you.

I don't know who told you about Avondale, but I am afraid it will have to be sold as I did not draw a horse, but I went to the derby with somebody.

The people we went with to Cornfield were named Stone. I'm sorry I cannot manage to come down this weekend as I have a tennis tournament on. When is your half term, you did not say when it is. You may come home or I could come down, but you may only come home if other girls are going home. Let me know when half term is. The Muirs still have Ben but have not decided yet and to keep him.

Sorry my violin will be no good to you as a it is cracked down the middle. I am also afraid that we cannot go to Cornfield and it is let until the end of August, and I have sold it after that, but Mrs. Berg says that she would like to have you to stay for a week in the holidays so I said that I was sure that you would love to do so.

Mr. and Mrs. Andre have moved up to Langcroft and I went to spend the evening with them last week. Geoff is going back to school this week end. It is very difficult living at Reigate after one's own home, I have a feeling that I am butting in, but never mind we must say nothing.

Uncle Bernard came down last night, I like Uncle Bernard don't you, he's a good sort. I am still kicking my heels about doing nothing and getting a bit fed up with it. What a pity that you are not a little older. Well all the best girl, keep fit all my love to you Peter.

06/11/1933 From Ancaster House. To 18 Mulgrave Road

From Joan To Peter

Half term is the 17th Saturday till Monday 19th. If you will fetch me on Saturday I will be ready at 12.45 and come back to school on Monday at 6.30 in the evening. Are you going to the Tatoo on Saturday, I have never been. One or two of the girls are going.

My Dear Pet, I an older, now I have got the shorthand books and will help if you will let me.

I hope the Muirs change their minds.

Yours very own Me xxxxxxxxxxx

Comment Enclosed photo of Miss Burrows.

From Peter To Joan

My darling Joan

Many thanks for your letter. It will be quite in order for you to come home on Saturday next and I am to fetch you and take you back on Monday in the car. Isn't it terribly sad about Mrs. Hulsbergen loosing her little daughter. Sorry I have to go to the Tattoo on Thursday with the Redfords and the Ropers.

Please excuse scribble I am in a terrible hurry and am still in the office and it is 8.00.

Very much love looking forward to seeing you on Saturday all love Peter

From Joan To Peter

My dear Peter

How did you get on yesterday. I got back to school yesterday evening about 6.15.

Are you not keeping any of the furnishiture at Avondale. There are a good many good things in the cabinet all that china the best tea set was mother's wedding present wasn't it.

I did quite a lot of shorthand last night in bed. Why don't you tell the Muirs that if they will have Ben, he is theirs or have you told them. I hope you will keep that oil paint box, because I would like it at school next term and do some oil paintings. If you have a photgraph album will you send me one with some corners to stick the photos in with.

Have you got any Diggings yet, I hope so. Give my love to all at Ridgeway

Good luck dear your loving Jo xxxxx

ps. if possible will you send me a wooden pencil case about 4"x9"x1 1/2" (picture) please.

07/10/1933 From East Court Woodmansterne Lane

From Peter To Joan

My darling Joan

Thanks awfully for your last for 3 letters. I do feel ashamed for not answering them before. I have there been so busy that I did not seem to find time to sit down and write.

Do you mind if we leave the photo album until the holidays and the shorthand I have not had time to ask Mrs. Grosse about.

I do hope you are keeping fit and doing well.

My new job is going fine awfully busy though I get down from town about 7.30 to 8.00 and often later, so do not get any time in the week.

I hear that you are going to Holland after the first week in August. I don't know whether I shall get a holiday this year. I feel I want to go away now.

I am very comfortable with Mr. and Mrs. Andrews.

You will be sorry to hear that I sold the old Unic on Saturday so I have no car now.

I had a letter from Uncle Northy, he sends his thoughts and best wishes and he may be home from Africa in a year or two.

The last two Sundays I have been to tennis parties in the afternoon. Next Saturday we are having the Sutton and Cheam hospital fete.

As I was going to town in the train the other day, another train came alongside ours and was level and I saw Uncle Lewis sitting in the carriage reading his paper. He didn't see me rather funny. Must close now dear always your loving Brother Peter

07/12/1933 On College of Estate Management Paper To Ancaster House

From Peter To Joan

My darling Joan

Thank you for your letter is dear to watch I suppose you want a new strap. I have been so busy lately. How nice to go and see a play, I wish I could.

I'm getting on alright I don't know what I am going to do yet.

You know that form that you have to sign, well it's got to be done again.

You ought to have had it by now but I am holding it up as there are one or two questions that I want answered before I sign it.

Keep well and have a good time always, your loving brother Peter

08/10/1933 From Mrs Hulsbergen de Hulsenhof de Woeste Hoeve post Beckbergen

From Joan To Peter

My Darling Peter

I hope you got my card. It is lovely here with all the animals. I went up into the tower yesterday afternoon and saw the foxes bring fed, it is a wonderful sight.

It is very funny because the driving wheels are on the left side of the cars and we drive on the rightside of the road. They have got a beautiful pianola here and the piano has a lovely tone, it is an English one.

There is a man, at least I think he is a boy, here, and he is awfully nice. He has his meals with us and looks after the farm too, he does speak English.

When you next go down to Carshalton please ask Mr Muir if he has done the violin or will it be ready for next term.

That was a real snub to Auntie and Uncle because I loved the sea and Geoffrey said that even if I said I did, I had not been on the sea where I could see no land round me. But it did not make any difference. He is jolly mean, he just loves to BULLY me when I am up there. I do not mind being teased but I cannot and will not stand being bullied by a boy of seventeen or any other. He thinks too much of himself and he is often very rude to Auntie. Pat is quite different.

Really Peter dear you must find a place for Ben to go, it is like plomping a burden on your neighbour which he does not want.

I am going to feed Trudies mice now.

Must stop darling yours ever loving Jo xxxxxxxxx

15/08/1933 From de Hulsenhof de Woeste Hoeve post Beckbergen

To East Court.

From Joan To Peter

My Own Dear Peter

Thanks for the letter, I am so glad the Muirs will have Ben, I hope you did not badger them though -- no I am quite sure you didn't and woundn't, it not like you.

I am enjoying myself with "Jan Pleunes" that is his name (I love him)(that’s a secret you must not tell anyone) he is twenty three.

Joyce Stanning my friend at school (she lives in Southampton) has asked me to stay for a week in September, I would like to go , but you need a holiday and I don't like to go for 2 or 3 and you have no holiday at all dear.

Why don't you go up to Auntie Crist? Saying that you don't think you can get away is no excuse at all. You must ask Mr Martin, is it. That reminds me I dreamed about Mr Martin the other night I will tell you after.

You can go to Middleton instead of me, because I can't go everywhere. I shall write to Mrs Verey and say that you are coming there for a week as I can't come. I know her address. That is if you won't do it yourself. If I go back to school next term knowing that you have not had a holiday I shall not do well then if I take the bad report back next term Auntie E will not give riding and hunting, because I did not have a good report last term and she told me that herself.

I shall be thinking you will get ill and overworked or you will have a nervous break-down. You are pale and thin now (Aunt Lettie is right) so you have a holiday, darling, even a long weekend might do good, and dear you must not work so hard at night. I would rather have you and be pennyless that be rich without you (or pennyless) so take my advice dear. I have been playing the piano quite a lot at least everyday.

I won't bother myself about Geoffrey, I hate him and he is not worth bothering about. The foxes are harmless so I am alright, but it is you I am worrying about.

I have just finished reading "Daddy Long Legs" you remember I saw the film a long time ago. I don't know if you did. By the way you will keep the Marjong won't you.

Now the dream, it was a scientific dream :-

Mr Martin was coming to see the Andrews and because it was rather cold his mother or wife ( I don't know which) made him have a hot-water bottle ( I don't know why) but he warmed {weighed} himself three times, when he got up in the morning, when he had warmed himself and when he went to bed.

Result

1st weight of Mr Martin = 6 stone

2nd weight of Mr Martin 6st 6 lb

3rd weight of Mr Martin 6 st

That was the end. Then in the morning I thought about it and decided that it had a conclusion (that is if you know any science) it is :-

That an object (rather an insult to Mr Martin) expands on heating and contracts on cooling. (this is an experiment with a method result and conclusion.) You will probably hear this dream twice because I told Mrs Andrews.

I did have to take the mothersills and they did not make any affect on me. Auntie Ger tries to make out that it was because I took those that I was not ill, but she is wrong

Well dear, I think I must stop now. My news is getting exhausted, it need more petrol, shell I think, it is best isn't it.

Your sister for ever Jo. Xxxxxxxx

ps just three more things -1. the clouds have been howling all day and have just stopped. 2. I will write again soon dear 3. I have give up Jan as I like Pleunes better

Comment The film wasmade in 1931

29/08/1933 From c/o Mrs Thomas 35 Queens Ave Meols Cheshire

From Joan To Peter

My Dearest Peter

I arrived safely yesterday and Auntie and Chis were just standing opposite the carriage. I had a 3/6 dinner on the train but it came to 4/2 as I had a glass of lemonade. I do think they might include a drink.

Last night after having put Chris to bed Alan and I went down on the prom in the rain and he showed me the baths, they are lovely. About four times as large as the Sugar bowl, just a few people were there. After watching them for a bit we went in and had a cup of coffee. By that time it was 9.00pm and they close at 9.00 and open again at half past for flood light bathing with different coloured lights all round. We are going one night soon.

I am so glad you can get down here next week. Alan started work yesterday after a fortnights holiday. It is now raining but is very hot.

I bought some stamps yesterday but not note paper because Auntie said you can't buy very nice paper here.

I hope you kept up to your saying and went to bed at 9.30 last night.

I really must stop now as I have three other letters to write in a short time

yours ever Jo xxxxxxx

30/08/1933 35 Queens Ave Meols

From Joan To Peter

My Darling Pet:

I have to write to you again because I haven't a postcard. I told Auntie you sang so she wants you to bring them. If you are here with Auntie Lettie it will be very nice.

I have got the Gramy on. Alan got a lot of modern records and as he hasn't a wireless he amuses himself with the Gramophone.

This is my new note paper 6d. It is very nice to write on. Do you like it ? 480 pages and 3d packet of envelopes. It is very difficult to write and listen to the gramophone at the same time so I will stop. This note was only to ask you for songs. My love to Mr & Mrs A

love Joan xxxx

Comment Auntie Lettie, a Dibdin sister, was a professional singer.

22/10/1933 To East Court

From Joan To Peter

Darling Pet.

Please will you tell me the colour of your sweater. Put something in your letter, to show the colour because if you say blue, well, I don't know which blue.

We had a kind of film last night, it was a sound film, some people came to it for up. It was about Stanley and Livingstone in Central Africa. After it we had a "Mickey Mouse" it was jolly good.

I have been put in the 2 VII netball 14 and under (age). Miss Burrows is letting us come home this half term if we can be fetched (the same as last term).

I have to go to the dentist about that time to have two teeth stopped. Bill (Hilda's Hubby) said they would need doing in about six weeks time.

Peter dear! Did I every congratulate you on winning your section in the Reigate tournament the Saturday you could not come up to Meols. Auntie Ger told me. Why did you not tell us you silly boy (man on Feb 26th). I suppose you cannot get down here before half term. Auntie won't come because she does not feel like the journey. But you could come with David couldn't you. How is Auntie, does she seem better ? Now she have had the operation.

Must stop now dear Much love your Jo xxxxxxxxxxx

Comment

David was David Muir the boy next door.

29/10/1933 To East Court

From Joan To Peter

Darling P

Thanks for your letter.

On Dec 2nd we are to do a play of Water Babies in Bexhill. I think everyone is going to be in it. This is an IMPORTANT NOTICE about it :- Tickets for the Water Babies on Dec 2nd Saturday at 2.30 and 8.00pm, may now be obtained from the Barker's Library Devonshire Road Bexhill prices 5/-, 3/-, 2/- reserved, 1/- unreserved. Miss Burrows very much hopes you will come preferably to both performances. If you like to send money there, one of the mistresses will choose your places on the plan and send tickets. Peter dear! Couldn't you come with Auntie Ger, stay the night in Bexhill and take me out on the next day (Sunday). I hope you are not working that day. Will you please send me a little piece of the wool of your sweater. Can't you cut a little end off that is sticking out, you see I want to know the thickness.

Please excuse such a short untidy letter, dear! But I haven't much time or news. Give my love to W & P

Yours ever loving Jo xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Is Cornfield empty ? Did you go there? When you come down will you bring your oil paints, you know you have some. I would love to do oil painting also bring the violin if finished please.

11/05/1933 From Ancaster House Bexhill To 35,Lincoln's Inn Fields

From Joan To Peter

Darling…

This is a very important letter. Do you think you could answer it by return post. You see it is half term on 11th 12th 13th and Auntie Ger says that I may go home if some girls here can bring me so far and she would meet me as she does not feel like the journey down. No girl can bring so I was wondering if you were free on Sat and could meet me dear. You see I have to go to the dentist about half term and the school one, I have heard, several girls say is rather rough. If you can would you ask Auntie if you may have the car. But please answer this by return post ( a pc will do) I must know by Wednesday.

If you can I will give in to Miss Smith the time that you can fetch me, as being 1.0pm to 1.30pm. If this is not right please say.

I have been put in the 2nd XI hockey team ( for Florence). We shall probable have the house matches soon. Did you understand about the play? I hope you can come. I am in the very funny scene and shall be dressed as a man. It isn't really a babeish play.

I had a letter from Aunt Teen (Christine in Meols) yesterday, she sent me 2/- for my half term sweets.

I suppose dear, you know about the death of Mrs Burrows. I have a lovely photo of her it comes out in the school mag. I must stop now. Please don't forget the pc if you have time.

Yours ever "Bitter Mary" xxxxxxxxxxx

What do you want for Christmas

19/11/1933 From Ancaster House To East Court WoodmansterneLane

From Joan To Peter

My Darling

Thank you so much for your letters. Do you mean that you are selling "Avondale" next week. Don't let it go for too little, for it’s a good old house.

Peter dear! Can you send me that old suit of yours as soon as possible as Miss Burrows has asked us to write for our clothes. Just a very old one will do , as small as possible. I think an old one of yours will do fine because you see, I'm growing fast. I'm nearly up to you.

We were going to have the house match yesterday but Miss Burrows decided to wait until after the play. I have got the wool for your sweater. If you could possibly give me your measurement round you under arms, it would be very helpful.

By the way, the suit does not necessarily have to match.

Please book a seat as soon as poss or there won't be any left. Can you get a car. I don't see why Billy Muir can't lend you his. Hire one from a garage, oh! Perhaps that would be rather expensive. Do try and get down. Well dear, I think I must stop now.

Yours always

Mary xxxxxxxxxxx

Give my love to the Andrews and tell Winifred that Ben is on my mantle-piece.

22/01/1934 East Court to Ancaster House

From Peter To Joan

My darling Joan

Many thanks for your letter, so glad you liked the violin case and bow. I did not know what to get you for your birthday and on Friday afternoon at 3.00 PM rushed up to the stores and got them just in time to give you on the train. That old wooden case was not very nice and the old bow was no good, Miss. Muir said.

Did you get the £1.00 I send you at Meols John's £1.00 if not let me know. Also it Lettie forgot your umbrella and so I sent it to you on Friday evening let me know if you get it, will you.

Grandma has left with me six volumes (books) of the "daily sketch my own library". What shall I do with them, keep them for you or send them to Bexhill. Will you write to me about it.

I have to wear my glasses most of the time but for dancing and romantic adventures I take them off, they get in the way at such times.

Yes we had a jolly party on Saturday there were 18 of us but none that you know, several medical students from Saint Thomas's Hospital.

We have quite a bit of dancing in the large room with the wireless and gramophone.

I met a little French girl who has come to St. Elinoss School Eastbourne. She is 16 and speaks English very well.

I rang up Uncle Gerard on Friday evening to find out how they were, he is alright but Auntie Margaret was in bed with two black eyes and a cut face. The car seemed to be pretty well smashed up.

Well have a good term and do well and join in everything there is, with all the other girls, don't get left out of things, good or bad, and let me know how you get on. Many happy days to come my dear your loving Peter.

02/07/1934 From Victoria

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for your letter.

So glad you are doing well with the violin and the piano too I hope. That's right play the piano for the dancing when you have a chance.

I am sending the two papers you're asking for.

Oh, dear will you were right to grandma and thank her for the set of books she gave you. I have them for you. They are called "daily sketch my own library". Will you do this straight away or she will be writing to know if you have had them and why you have not thanked her for them.

When is your half term.

I think I will come down if you let me know maybe with Aunt Ger. How about staying at Reigate before going to Saltburn. Let me know when you break up.

I am afraid I have not thought about Vivienne (Dowdy) or anybody else as far as that goes.

She is a very nice girl and I hope you keep friends with her, you never know.

Well must close now. Oh, we gave Ben a bath the other day in the big bath in the bathroom, he was so pleased.

All love dear Peter

PS I wrote to Aunt Garnett and Uncle Joe for both of us for Christmas and the letter has Just been returned to me it never got there I shall have to write again now.

03/10/1934 From East Court

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for letters dear. Sorry I have not written, but have been so busy working and taking exams this week, all over now though. The drawing of the gipsy girl looks alright.

What about you taking up the cello, have you ask about it? If not could do then you can have mothers old cello at school. Besides the cello is a more natural instrument for the pianist to play than a violin, it helps with the accompaniment and left hand base work of the piano.

Uncle Bernard and Aunt Freda are coming to town tomorrow. I am going to spend Easter with them at Paignton in Devonshire not far from Torquay.

I gather from your letter that although you only touched the ball once you won the match against the convent.

You know that the PO you gave me back well I have opened an account for you in my bank, in my name and put the £1.00 in the account. If you have any other money you want to bank and save send it to me and I will put it in the bank. While it is in the bank it is making an interest of 2 1/2 %.

Hope you are well and that nobody has got scarlet fever. All love Peter

15/05/1934 From the College of Estate Management

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for letters dear. Sorry have not written before.

I am sending the sweater and the colours already made up, so all you have to do is to finish the sweater completely and then work in the strip as on the old sweater, you will see how it is done.

Nobody else has caught the measles and Winifred is better now. Last Thursday evening I took her to Brighton and she stayed until Sunday. I went down again on Saturday morning and stayed the night; we went to a dance at the grand hotel which was very nice.

We stayed at the old ship hotel. On Sunday we motored to Seaford and Newhaven. After lunch we went on the Worthing and Littlehampton, stopped at Crawley. Bran also went to Brighton. I am better now and I think the weekend away did a lot of good. Last Tuesday night I saw Aaaunt Margaret and Uncle Gerard off at Victoria at 11.00. I think they had a pretty rough crossing that night. Are you better from your cold, if you play a lot of tennis it will keep you fit.

I have joined the Sutton Town Tennis Club and hope to play next weekend. Tell me where you would like to make your permanent home. Is it at Aunt E or with Auntie Christine. Let me know this dear soon I must know what you want.

Let me know if everything is done about your summer holidays and where you will go.

All my love darling your loving Brother Peter

24/05/1934 From Quintana

From Peter To Joan

My dear Joan

Thanks for your letter, how would you like to do the cruise, it is 13 days going to Madeira Las Palmas, Casablanca and Lisbon from Southampton and going ashore at these places and excursions are included. It leaves Southampton on August the 15th. Let me know at once dear if you want to do it, don't wait until the weekend to write as I shall have to book very soon if we go. I think it would be rather nice.

Could you let me have this sweater back as soon as possible as I have no other to wear for tennis.

Winifred and will come down one day, I will let you know when. All love darling Peter

Comment The address indicates that Peter has moved to working under a subcontractor Quintana

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Thanks for the card. Dear, I have been thinking about the cruise, it appears that you will be with a set of girls and in the charge of some lady which alters the idea of the holiday together, we won't be able to do much as we like, when we like, you will be restricted to certain things.

Besides those cruises are all very fine but there is not much rest about them, you have to be doing things all the time, which is very tiring and especially with such a crowd as 200 people.

I was thinking that it would be nicer for us to go off to Dinard or somewhere like that in France, the Brittany Coast, a fortnight there would I think do us more good than racing around in a boat where you will get little sleep and feel very tired when you return.

At Dinard there are lovely sandy bathing etc beautiful country for walking and motor rides if you like them and dancing.

We would stay at a very nice hotel and incidentally it would be cheaper than the cruise. Everything is arranged for us by Sir Henry Lunn including the journey. We could leave Victoria Station at 7.00 PM and be there for 7.00 the next morning. What you think of it. Let me know soon dear.

May I have the sweater back pleased as soon as possible. All love darling Peter

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for the sweater dear. As regards the holidays I don't know what to do. Aunt Editht turns down going to France. She says you need a woman's care and advice, if you were 26 or 7 it would be easier, she says I could not have the experience necessary for the guidance of a highly spirited in the irrepressible young sister when I am the only just 21.

She says that when you are 18 and I am 28 it will be quite different and we will be able to go abroad by ourselves.

She is terribly old fashioned and she does not realise the capabilities of the modern youth of today. Apparently she will have you, there with a lot of Danish and German and Belgian girls. Much love darling Peter.

Comment An example of the limitations imposed by Aunt Edith.

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for letter, I am very well and very busy, Mulgrave Road is closing down all rather part of it and I have a lot to clear out.

So glad you are alright, I am afraid the holiday is off this year. Aunt Edith doesn’t want you to come with me, so that seems to settle it, we have to think of something next year.

I couldn't read what it was that you said the girl had broken and had put you back up over.

I do not think I can manage next Sunday, but propose taking a week holidays soon and could come down one day then.

I hope Florence wins the cup; you will have to pull up a bit to do it. I wish you all the best of luck.

You seem to give the boys a beating in the cricket, next time you will have to get them all out and get an absolute win.

How is the tennis going, I cannot have you beating me again. That was a terrible thing to do to defeat your elder brother at tennis. It is very kind of Ann to invite you to stay with her in the holiday. You go, write and tell it Edith and say you want to go if you do, do not leave it too late.

No, the people have not yet moved into Avondale. I don't know a girl named Jean Bishop, I suppose she is a new girl. Winifred sends her love

All the very best dear

Always your loving brother Peter

Comment The injustice of Peter not inheriting a proper position in his father's company

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

I had a letter from Aunt E this morning, this is what she said

"I should like to Joan to come straight up to me by the 1.20 train from King's Cross on Friday the 27th which is the date she breaks up. We have some very jolly girls here from Norway and Belgium, Germany and Sweden and I would like her to enjoy all the bathing, picnics etc with them."

They are all girls from 17 to 25 years of age.

I don't know why you shouldn't go with Ann to stay, I think it would be very nice and this is the time to make my friends while you are at school.

I am going away in the last week in August for fortnight with David to Jersey. It is all arranged and E said you could not come with me. When you are 18 it will be alright.

Yes, I have a letter to show you saying that you must not spend too much money or else you will not be able to stay at Ancaster House, and also that you must not expect the pleasures and holidays you would have had, had daddy and mummy been still alive. You know that you and I share everything that they had and that the money is invested for you and that you will have to live on the interest from that money which is not enough for you to live on so you are using up the capital each year, until you are 21, when you will be able to handle it yourself, in the meantime the public trustee do it and pay for your school fees out of the money and as a it cost about £220 per year to keep you and pay for school, you will have to be careful. Yes Mulgrave Road is been given up and everything with it. I wrote the envelope of last letter

all love Peter.

23/07/1934 From Quintana 86 Eccleston Sq SW1

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

I hear you are going to stay with Mrs. Spencer Smith. Will you let me know the train you come to Victoria on. All love Peter PS you may write to this address

31/07/1934 To c/o Mrs Spencer Ssmith, Hallamgate,Staines

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for letter. I have written for the umbrella and hope to hear in a day or two.

I am looking forward to coming down next Sunday. Give my kindest of the regards to Mrs. Spencer Smith. All love dear Peter

08/07/1934 To c/o Mrs Spencer Ssmith, Hallamgate,Staines

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

It was good to see you on Sunday and to see you looking so well. It was very nice of Mrs. Spencer Smith to ask me down.

On Monday, I went to Reigate to lunch; Uncle Stanley and Auntie Jean were there and ask after you, also Helen Ouin.

I arrived back just after midnight on Sunday night. I have been trying again to get a bust of Chopin. When you come up on a Friday, bring me the one with you and I will change it for a better if I can get it.

How much do you want to pay for it, let me know is 10 shillings too much.

The kindest regards to Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Smith all love Peter.

What were the names of the people who took me back?

Comment Helen Ouin four years older than Joan and married John Davis.

09/10/1934 To the Towers

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks dear for the lovely sweater, it fits beautifully. Thank you very much I think it is jolly good the way you have made it.

I arrived back on Saturday night, have had a very good time. I only stayed in Jersey a week as you know, Guernsey is much nicer in every way. The bathing was marvellous and the food quite the best we had on holiday really enjoyable, cooked by a French chap. Sark is very nice I've bathed there in Venus Bath a pool in the rocks which is 20 feet deep and every stone can be seen at the bottom it is so clear. I dived down several times and brought one up. The people were very nice and I connected up with several of them who knew mutual friend, one lady with two daughters are great friends with a cousin of our cousin Haycraft at Newton near Porthcawl and thy remembered when daddy's started road making on the sand dunes. I do hope you are having a good time and keep well. What are the girls like you are with. What have you been doing with yourself.

When you come down next let me know beforehand and I will get the busts for you they are keeping them at of the stores for me.

Did you know poor old Mr. Rowe died last Wednesday week. He had been ill for a long time and would not have been able to recover. Poor Miss Rowe is very upset. I saw her yesterday. I think she will leave Grosvenor Avenue and go away now, they were so devoted to each other.

Avondale looks quite smart now painted black and white outside and the people are working hard with the garden. They have been in now nearly three weeks.

When do you go back to school let me know.

All love darling Peter

21/09/1934 To Heathercote Castleton

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

I am sorry darling to hear about you, I did not know until yesterday. Why did you not write and tell me you have been unwell all the holidays, then perhaps you could not write because it would have hurt your wrists. I hoped dear by the time you get this you will feel much better.

The sweater is marvellous and fits perfectly. Thank you very much dear. I was going to see the school train off today but I had to go to the courts and was detained so missed it, I thought I would see Mr. Burrows.

Take care of yourself dear. I hope to have the busts when you come down. All love darling Peter

18/10/1934 To Ancaster House on Quintana & Co notepaper

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Thank you dear for your letter is. Poor old girl having to have your tonsils out, it is not the nice thing at all times and it will put you back in your work for school. Yes I am afraid it will mean staying in bed for some time afterwards, not just for the reason that you will have your tonsils out, but because of the ....... which otherwise might turn sceptic and infect the other organs and the heart and make them a weak. You do not want to become one of those persons who have to go throughout life suffering from weak heart and having to give up all sport and anything that needs a little energy.

We don't know yet when we can get you into Saint George's Hospital, we have to wait for Miss Posy to get you a bed.

I am going to discuss with Miss Thrupp today, this afternoon so will know a little more about things then.

Auntie Ger has very kindly invited you to stay there after you come out of hospital, but you will have to lie on your back, you see dear you must, you have got to be so careful now at your age when you are a developing into a woman, and we don't want you to become an invalide, which is possible unless the greatest precautions and care are taken it now.

I will send you the Busts as soon as poss, no darling you will not be able to go back to school until next term, if all goes well that is certain. it is unfortunate as it will put you back so. Never mind the old girl, we have all sorts of troubles in this life, and the best way is to keep smiling and make the best darling Peter

29/10/1934 To Ancaster House

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

I hope you receive the vast safely, are they all right. The small one is Chopin, it is was 5/6, it is the best that they could get me, the other was a gift from a friend of mine. I could get a beaten bronze one of Chopin . It is only one sided as it is in a picture frame. This sort of thing.

It is like a picture and it is made of beaten metal and has raised surface like the King's head on a penny but more so. They are 12/6 each.

I stayed at the Muirs for the week and they are all well and very sorry to hear about you. Ben is very well, David and I took him in the park and he has a fine scamper around and would go into the water and get his legs dirty.

Yesterday afternoon we walked over to see Grandma. She was in the bath so we had to wait outside until she dressed. She says if you do not want those books perhaps you would like to give them to your cousins Mary, Christine and Hugh. I could take them over to them as a present from you. How do you feel now, any better. It has turned very cold now although the sun is not. Well must end now dear and catch the post. All love darling Peter

23/11/1934 To Radcliffe Ward St Georges Hospital

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

How do you feel today? I hope much better dear. Will this do I could not get plain paper so I thought that the small squared would be better than lined.

I do hope the grapes were alright, were very sweet.

I am very busy and have to go to Wandsworth now. And all love darling from Peter

12/08/1934 To Ancaster House

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

How do you like being back at school, take it easy and don't go and get ill just before Christmas.

If we go to Uncle Bernard’s what about your clothes, have you them all with you, you don't want to be wearing the school clothes at Nottingham and you may want a dancing frock, don't leave it too late before thinking of these things.

Have a good wind up of term.

Which day do you break up.

I have sent a letter to Aunt Marian on the Australian mail, it leaves today and should get there on the 20th of December. Write me soon dear all love Peter

01/01/1935 From East Ct To Heathercote Castleton Yorks

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

A very Happy New Year dear. I am so glad you enjoyed your stay at Nottingham. I did the same.

I shall be seeing Uncle Bernard on Friday or Saturday at the match at Twickenham. I hope you're Trunk arrived alright.

I had a very late night last night 4.00 am. Went to a dinner and dance with Winifred and Paul and several other people at the Aro Hotel. Some of our party went up in an aeroplane over London. We had a very jolly time. The Weston Brothers came down to do a turn.

I am going to Auntie Ger on 9th they are having a party or something. I bet it's pretty cold at Carshalton now.

I only had about 3 hours sleep last night. Have just finished my first lunch for the New Year. Hors d'oeuvre, Fillet of Whiting, Roast Turkey, Sausage stuffing and sprouts and large Christmas pudding and cream.

It quite warm here all rather muddy. I suppose you sat up to the sea the New Year in. Did you listen to the wireless. All love dear from Peter

22/01/1935 To Ancaster House.

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Very many happy returns of the day, it doesn't seem 15 years ago since that morning that you first made a noise and I saw you in the little crib. All of the same it is, and many things have happened since then, now you are becoming a woman, no longer the child.

Keep it out der, and keep going ahead as you are now, as everybody speaks so highly of you, good luck in the future and God bless you.

I am sending you the hockey pads as a present as I did not know what else. Use them and play well. I hope you get into the team, if you do you will find it will help you in other things.

The petticoat I am sending also . Grandma was so pleased to see you and also great aunt Letty and Katie. I saw them on Sunday. Billy Muir is getting married on 29th of June.

Ben is just the same he is going to see another Vet today but I don't think it is any good. I went to see Miss Grosse last night we are having a party on the 27th of Feb.

With all love darling and best wishes Peter

Comment Aunt Kate was W.J.Dibdin's youngest sister 6 years younger. Joan's Great-aunt

From Peter To Joan

Thank you for your was of the 30th instant enquiring after Miss Katie Dibdin. Do you not know who she is. She is your grandfather's sister. She and her sister Mrs. Jones Mrs. Jones are the only ones left of their generation besides miss someone. I hope you receive the package all right. Peter

Comment Mrs Jones was Mary Emily Dibdin, a year older than Katie

From Peter To Joan

My Darling 15 year old Baby

With this I enclose the Picture Goer you asked for, the pads I am changing, but the stores are out of stock of ladies at the moment, they expect come in tomorrow, Thursday, so I will post them straight away.

You will be sorry to hear that Ben was put to sleep on Monday the something got worse so I took him to Stowe Young who saw Ben that was Saturday. He suggested taking him to the royal veterinary college in London on Monday morning I took him up there with Winifred, we left him there and I saw him go to sleep, he didn't feel anything.

Poor Winifred is so upset and cries most of the day. She loved Ben more than anything else in the world. He is being cremated and his ashes to be buried in the garden with the following inscription on the stone

"Ben 28th Jan 1935

in the light I will always remember him

and in the darkness my darling

I will never forget."

We had a heavy fall of snow on Saturday and Sunday. Many people go snowballing on the downs. It is still thick on the ground and freezing.

I have been at Leslie Howard House at Westcott all this week or rather last Wednesday Thursday Friday, There is a picture of him in the Picture Goer.

We are having a party on Saturday, David and Winifred upcoming. I have to get out some games, it will end up with a dance if I expect. Must close now dear all love Peter.

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for letter. I am glad the pads were all right. I have put 7/6 in the bank for you. That is very charming of Ann I hope she is well. Dear I don't want anything for birthday don't you bother about that.

Sorry to hear about the cold but that is all over now I expect. We had snow the other day quite a heavy fall. I saw the Scarlet Pimpernel on Saturday with Leslie Howard, very good show.

Last night I went to a dinner at the Holborn Restaurant. The Valuers Institution Annual Dinner as the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Shorland , it was very good. They have asked us over when you return from school, and want you to bring your music and my songs next holiday, they live in Dorking and are very charming people, you would like her. Excuse the awful writing and mistakes it isn't because I had too much to drink last night.

I shall have to talk to Winifred about coming down to Box hill.

I had a letter from Auntie E the other day. I will enclose it with this letter, will you let me have it back. She also sent a photo which is very nice. Must close now dear all love Peter.

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Thanks for letter received this morning, enclosed please find PO value 5/- as requested.

You must be more careful how you go about and not fall downstairs you'll break your neck one of these days.

I spent the weekend at Muirs, went to Stsnsburys is on Saturday evening with David.

I wonder if you have received your piano accordion yet. How is the music going. Hope you've come down soon. Much love Peter

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

If thank you dear for your letter and wishes good. I am off sorry that Anne had an Order Mark, I told her to go in and not to get wet. Why didn't the mistress come out and tell her to go in instead of letting her stay outside if she knew she ought not to.

We got back to Banstead at 8.45. It took 1 3/4 hours from School. I drove all the way and we did not stop. What rain, it simply poured all the way. We fetched Otto directly. Paul had gone to bed.

As you see this letter was started on Tuesday morning. It is now Thursday evening, I had to stop and have not had a moment to go on until now.

I met with Paul at the Central Hall Westminster last night choral work. We had snow yesterday quite heavy. Must go dear have to go to lecture now all love Peter

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for your letter last week. I have been so busy last week I simply did not find time to write.

Otto is very nice and Winifred loves him. He is about behalf of the size of Shanghai. Directly we get to bed he starts putting up an infernal dim. He goes to the kitchen door and batters his feet on it as hard as he can, this sort of thing continues for a long time, intervals of about 2 minutes each lasting ½ minute. He, in the meantime between these regular bombards, he rushes round the room upsetting everything in his way, baskets, fire guards etc.

I saw the "Creaking Chair" on Saturday night at the Fortune theatre. An amateur show not badly done.

Saw Aunt Letty Sunday morning she has had a bad for about six weeks but is getting better now.

Has Aunt Ger been to see you this term, I heard she was with you last Sunday week.

David is very well. I had tea on Sunday there and we had some music.

Tell me dear when are you taking your exam, is it this month.

The weather is so cold here, it has been freezing for several days now, the pipes outside are frozen and I have to let the water out of the car every night.

Have been so busy in the office for last few weeks. Write and tell me all the news and when your exam is dear. Must close now all love Peter

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

All the very best of luck and success in the exam. It will be a neat thing if you passed this one as I am sure you will. Take it naturally and don't rush into things. All the very best of luck old girl.

I have not heard anything from Auntie E for months. I was at Reigate on Sunday Dick was there all seemed very well.

Otto is growing fast and scraps with Shanghai most of the days. He got hold of one of my new socks that Auntie Lettie made me and has eaten the heel right out of it. He has done the same to the other up.

It is a perfect day and very warm, I must close now to catch the post all love Peter

04/02/1935 Written on old PippBrook Mill Estate, 18 Mulgrave Road paper.

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for your letter. I am so glad you liked the exam and got on well with the examiner. It makes a lot of difference who you get.

I'm afraid I will not be at home much as I have to be in town every night and don't get back until about 10. It 30.

What time does your train arrived, let me know Joan. I will have to stay in town on Fridays until I come down as Winifred will be out late perhaps you could go to Mrs. Middleton. Much love Peter

Comment This was one of the 9 estates known t ohave been developed by Lionel Dibdin

05/03/1935 To Castleton

From Peter To Joan

My Dear Joan

Many thanks for your letter; I am so glad you had a jolly Easter. School next week.

Aunt Lettie is going to be married and she has asked me to tell you in order to save her writing. It is to be very soon, to Mr. Frewin. Perhaps you will write to her at the hospital. She is moving from Norwood in two weeks. The weather is just like summer days, I only hope it lasts over the weekend.

The crowds in London are tremendous everywhere you go. And the declaration grows more every day.

The floodlighting is wonderful. Let me know in good time what you are doing about returning to school, don't leave it to the last minute. All love Peter.

Comment Event 6th May 1935. King George V Silver Jubilee.

From Peter To Joan

My Dearest Joan

I hope you have settled down all right now at school and have lost the cold you had.

I expect you were rather tired when you arrived.

That evening the I saw the King and queen at the palace, also again on Thursday night I saw the whole family. Winifred and Davies and his sister came up we got into such a crowd that we simply could not move, many of the women were fencing and had been crushed.

The floodlighting is really wonderful. I'd told you that Aunt Lettie was getting to be married soon didn't I.

The weather here is lovely, so warm. I am just leaving the office now so must close to catch the post and go back to lunch. all love Peter

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for letter. I'm afraid I have been rather bad and writing of late but have been so busy. How is the tennis going. I enclose the address you asked for its

Miss M. Simmons 42 Crescent Belmont, Sutton, Surrey

I'm afraid I shall have to close now dear so much to do, lectures every night and all that. Much love dear Peter.

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Will you write by return post. What a time are you able to leave on Saturday. If you can get a way about 9 or 10 in the morning, Geoffrey can be there with the car and bring you back to Reigate for the weekend.

There is not much time to arrange so you must write straight away. All love Peter

Comment Geoffrey is Gertie's son

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

I have bought two seats on the 1.20 from King's Cross for you and Anne. They are opposite corner seats on the window side of the train.

I am afraid there is no 10.15 from Bexhill, there is a 10.10 Victoria 12.11. This is the latest train you must catch. How long is Ann staying at Saltburn. I hope you have a good time. My exam starts on 30 July for three days, then I have a week's holiday until the 10th of August. I also have the first fortnight in September.

Will you try and keep the luggage as small as possible on Friday as it will be difficult to cross London if you have large cases. All love dear Peter

Comment Peter's crisp organisation skills with his gentle caring aprroach are a delight to observe.

21/08/1935 c/o W.B. Haycraft Cumberland The Point Chapel St Leonards Lincoln

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

I would have written before, but things here are keeping me on and ago night and day.

There are three away from the office so I get away late every night, then I am busy in Sutton in the evenings. Sunday was the best day even though half of the day was wasted. I have to go to Chichester on business that finished at about 3.00 PM. Went on the ....... ...... had lunch and a bath.

How are you enjoying yourself I .... with D .... was with you well.

Let me know how you are all getting on.

My love to you or Peter

From Peter To Joan

My Dearest Joan

Many thanks for your letter, it appears that you are not going to do much work this term as you say that you have not started yet, but seriously Joan this is the time in which you must work harder than ever before. I take it you are now definitely starting on a course for the school certificate (SC). I remember from my own experience that this is the important time to get down to work seriously if one is to have the slightest chance of passing the SC.

You are starting a on a course of work which is to set out to cover the standards of the SC and you are only given a certain time in which to do it about three or four terms, the last term is nearly all revision work. And if by chance you should miss something due to absence or inattention there is no time to go over it again. And you are going to be the loser not the teacher.

So it is up to you dear to get down to it now and if there is anything you do not understand don't be afraid to stand up and say so..

I am telling you this dear because I know from my own experience and I do want you to get SC.

"I am glad you have been made a prefect but do not do too much ordering about because if you do you will not be liked and they won't have you as a prefect. .. The idea is to set an example to others, and to have respect and control over your juniors without being a schoolmarm or whatever it is you call some of the old teachers you do not like. I do not know whether I shall be able to be present at your confirmation, but will make my best endeavours to do so, I should not like to miss it.

When Auntie Gertie and John return from Aunt Edith I am going to bring John down one Sunday. Please thank Ann for her sympathies.. There is a lesson for you . See what happened to me.

On Monday I am due to commence my new duties under His Majesties Treasury in the Office of Commissioners of Crown Lands in Whitehall. That is why I doubt about Dec 11th.

I bought some silk pyjamas the other day and wore them 3 times and then Otto took the seat right out of them. They are now a very expensive car rag. I had to parade last night in my new Russian ones.

All love darling Peter.

Comment Good to have a brother giving such caring advice. Presumably the sympathies are over his exam results.

From Peter To Joan

My Dearest Joan

Many thanks for your letter, so sorry I have not answered it before, have been so rushed.

Very busy now on the new job making plans of under sea quarries (Coal mines) studying 3 to 4 miles out to sea.

I shall be coming down to Bexhill at half term and on Sunday morning and will bring John and Auntie Ger. I did not really mean that you were not working, I was pulling your leg, but at the same time this is the important time for you to do your best.

Must close now dear to catch the post. Look out on Sunday November 3 dear

all love Peter

Comment By now Peter is working for the Crown Commissioners

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for your letter received this morning. Thank you for reminding me of the ...... I had forgotten.

Will you tell me your program for Wednesday December 11 and what time I should come. I have not heard any more from Aunt Ger about Christmas.

I have been very busy of late and little time in the evening, but things are better now.

Tell me dear what is it you would like for Christmas, I haven't the faintest idea what you would like. You are growing up and no longer like the things that you used to, so be a good girl and tell me, or perhaps you could rather have the money to spend as you please.

How are you getting on with the confirmation class.

All love dear Peter

From Peter To Joan

Darling Joan

Many thanks for your letter. I have had an invitation for tea on Wednesday. I have written to Mr. Burrows to say I will come down. So glad to hear Miss Brightman wants you to play. Also Miss B tells me a about your good conducting and the winning of the "House" singing competition. Very good Joan keep it up.

Please excuse the scrawl of this letter but it is so cold that my hand won't keep still.

Went to a dance last night the Rugger Club at the Drift Bridge.

For Christmas, dear I should like a blue tie, what do you like please tell me and what, are you going to get for John and the other two boys also Auntie and Uncle. Let me know what you think. I am writing to Uncle Joe and Auntie Margaret from a us both. I thought of sending a cable to Australia at Christmas Eve. I will try and get down ........on Wednesday love Peter.

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for your letter. I am so sorry I did not write for your birthday although I remembered it.

That's very good to be a head prefect, that means you takes on certain amount of responsibility.

I have ordered the book and will send it when it arrives as a rather late birthday present of which I hope you will make full use of.

I have heard nothing from Riegate since you left there or from anybody for that matter except grandma who is sending you 2/6 in stamps. I have been helping her to buy a new wireless set.

We had been slack at the office since the King died. I was present at the proclamation of King Edward and I watched the funeral procession from a balcony in the Mall. It was a wonderful sight and took over an hour to pass. I wish you could have been there.

Winifred and Paul had some seats in Piccadilly and had to climb over roofs of buildings and down fire escapes to get to their seats. They left by train at 7.20 having refused a lift in my car and reached their seats at 10.15.

I left by car at 7.55 and arrived at 8.35.

We had a party on Saturday night about 24 of us in all. I made about 40 mince pies of. It went on until about 2.00 AM, after the same, we had dancing.

The weather is getting much colder. I think we may have some snow. If Auntie E starts making any more plans for you I should say "well what does Peter say about it ". I hope you are keeping fit. I may come down soon one Sunday.

All love dear from Peter

Comment Vision looming of the clashes with Edith

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many many thanks dear for the nice present of 50 fags. You should not have spent the money.

I enclose the short note the Company band suit and the gray bags, I hope you can make them fit.

I had two ties from Winifred and Paul and 25 fags from Otto Mada.

I have had a holiday all this week. Spent the first two days decoking by car, took Wilfred to see Charlie Chaplin on Wednesday.

Do you remember Uncle Northy. How fond he was of you down at Portcawl. I'm sorry to have to tell you that he died after a very severe operation in the cottage hospital in Abrakuta, Nigeria on the 28th of December last. With all love Peter

Comment A sixteen year old buying her brother 50 fags!!

20/04/1936 To Castleton

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

If I Iwas am sorry to hear about the measles when did you get them, you were lucky enough and two have had them so a mildly.

I expect by this time you are feeling quite fit again.

We had an excellent Easter in Paris. On Friday we had lunch out of doors and we did not wear coats the whole time.

The crossing going are over was pretty bad. All the crockery was broken in the kitchens and it was impossible to stand up without holding on tight. Once when I was on the top deck I let go to go down and was soon shot across the deck receiving a nice bruise on the eye.

We travelled all night arriving in Paris at 6.00 AM. Are you playing tennis this term if so how is your racket, don't get a new one, but have it restrung, if so let me have it done for you. It will be better than it was when it was new.

I have just had mine done by a friend and this will be its fourth season. Let me know what you're doing about it.

Always your loving Brother Peter

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for letter.

You remember my old Spalding racket that you liked so much, it had rather a thick handle, well I have had it restrung for you and you can take it back to school with you on the 5th of May. I don't expect that the one you have at school is any good now if you left it in the pavilion.

Tell me about and the measles. When did you get them and what did you do. We start tennis on Saturdays so I will try the racket out then if I play.

Give my love to Auntie E and Laura.

Always your loving Brother Peter

From Peter To Joan

Dear Miss Tramp

Enclose please find one pair of old or tramping "Gray's" which I sincerely hope will meet with your entire satisfaction.

Should you require anything further, I shall be only too pleased to supply and to furnish you with the articles on hearing from you.

Assuring you of my best attentions at all time. I am your obedient servant P H Dibdin PS so glad the request is as you like it Peter

06/08/1936 To Ancaster House

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

I'm afraid I am unable to let you have the dress perhaps Mrs. MacPherson can find you one.

Yes I wrote Miss B last week's saying I would bring you back with me to Reigate on Saturday.

It will not be possible I'm afraid for me to reach Bexhill until the afternoon as I must be in town in the morning, but will try and get down to you as early as possible. So look out for me or bout 3.00. All love Peter

07/08/1936 East Court to Ancaster House

From Peter To Joan

Dearest Joan

Many thanks for letter. I hope and felt all right for the exam and did well.

Enclosed please find pro for five shillings as requested. I am afraid that photos I took were not much good, not worth sending.

I'm surprised you have not had decent weather, we had have had it very hot in up something. I am very busy at the office as so many people are on holiday and I have to do two people's work as well as my own.

Tell me have if you bathed in the sea yet, because of next time I come down I should like the bathe.

I have not put your name on the PO in order that you may be able to change it with anybody.

With all love dear Peter

Comment Last Letter as Joan left School at the end of the next tern in London with easy access to Peter.