Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

1964

`

1964

Rev. Capt C.H.Heath-Caldwell DSO RN aged 74/75

Violet M.Heath-Caldwell aged 77/78

Patricia M.C.Heath-Caldwell aged 43/44

Diana Charlton - (Danny) - (ne Heath-Caldwell) aged 42/43

Rosalind Attwood - (Ros) - (ne Heath-Caldwell) aged 38/39

J.A. Heath-Caldwell (NZ) aged 33/34

D.A.Heath-Caldwell (NZ) (ne Jones) aged 28/29

Irving M. Palmer OBE, RN.

Rev. Frederick M.T. Palmer aged 75/76 Maitland NSW

Norah Palmer (ne Gerard) aged 52/53 Maitland NSW

Ianthe M. Asquith (ne Palmer) aged 31/32 Maitland NSW

Dara Gibbs (ne Palmer) aged 29/30 Maitland NSW

Freya Ferguson (ne Palmer) aged 28/29 Maitland NSW

Rosalind McLeod (ne Palmer) aged 25/26 Maitland NSW

Joseph G. Palmer aged 17/18 Maitland NSW

Primrose N. Palmer aged 15/16 Maitland NSW

Diary of P.M.C. Heath-Caldwell

Wednesday 1st January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

8/6 + 12 2 1/2 stamps. Due for Brixton Deveril Parish magazine. The Dorest Natural History and Archeological Society. (pound)1.14s. Hon. Treasurer I.W. Barrett. Cigarettes. Quiet day, nothing much doing. Biked to Maiden Newton - met the Herewards walked back. (senior).

Quite a nice day, Biked to Maiden Newton about notices. Met the Herewards (Senior) on the way back. Drew Leslie in choir get-up. Rang up Shilly who is to come here on 9th.

Thursday 2nd January 1964- Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Had my hair set in the morning at Miss Francis's. Jolly good. Mrs Egerton there too. Finished my poster. Mr Rees brought notice for lectures. Nothing much in the afternoon. Successful party in the evening. Mrs Spencer there, also Mrs Cake. (Danny our late.)

Friday 3rd January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter came from Michael Langdon. Good about Jim who he had seen on Christmas day. Mrs Leader rang up - supper tonight. Did poster in the morning. Coolish dry day. Lily had a cough. After lunch wrote to Mrs Davies. Bicycled to see Mr Batten with post, also to Frome St.Quentain with notices of lectures. After tea went to supper with Mrs Leader. Listened to Mendelssohn's violin concerto in E minor Opus 64 with Yehudi playing. On way back saw 2 roe deer. Listened to Pope Paul speaking - good. Bed 11.30pm

.

Saturday 4th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

(End of Diary 1963)Letter from Dora all about the children. Annoyed Daddy. Discussed Dora all day - ye Gods - how much time can one waste. Went to sleep in the afternoon to get away from it all. Saw Pope Paul in the evening on TV, amazing pictures going up the Vic Dolorosa. (Diary 1964) - Letter from Dora all about the children - this annoyed Daddy very much, and he talked about it all day encouraged by me! Ye Gods! how much time can one waste. Went to sleep in thye afternoon to get away from it all. Saw Pope Paul in the evening on TV, amazing pictures of him going up the Via Dolorosa, being jostled and pushed in the crowds.

Sunday 5th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went to the early service 8.am with Daddy. I was up early before that. Mummy had "Trots" so did not come. I felt pretty bad tempered. Mum cooked lunch. Rested for a bit afterwards. Pope visiting Holy Land - good news. Good film of Dr Findley.

Monday 6th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Blandford Choral Society. 1st Meeting. Pleasant day, hardly any fog - sun tried to shine. Took round notes in morning about lectures. Men here putting in soft-water fixture. Took Daddy's car to be done by Radford. Met Boys in street! Took round more notes after lunch. Met Jan Stuart and Nicholas - she is living in Berkshire. Shilly worse - wants me to stay down there. Wrote to Sister Porter. Cold night. Car parking locked. Went down to other place. Good practice - not many there. Bach. Gave Mrs R Spanish brandy.

Tuesday 7th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

PIck up Mrs Weaver 1.30pm to go to art school. Went into Dorchester on my own. Water softening business finished. Went off to Yeovil art school with Mrs Weaver (from Frome St.Quentin). Good day there. Met Joyce Padwick. On to tea with them at Lower Odcombe. (Coniar Cottage). Stopped at Mrs Weaver's on the way back to see pictures. Back 7.15pm. TV rest of evening.

Wednseday 8th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Fetch Shilly. Foggy day to start with. Went to Maiden Newton as Mr Waring had rung up. Left home 11.55am. Reached Newton Abbott 1.50pm. 1hr 55minutes. Shilly pale, but fairly cheerful. Poured out all our troubles! Watched TV and eat most of the rest of the day. Mummy rang up at 7pm.

Thursday 9th January 1964 - Newton Abbot

Good day. Went out and did shopping for Shilly. Quiet lunch and afternoon. Rang Mummy up. Watched TV at night. Cold flat!! Mummy rang up.

Friday 10th January 1964 - Newton Abbot

Up early as usual. Shilly went to doctor. I fetched her back. Left at 11am. Here at 1pm. Down to Maiden Newton in the afternoon. Took Dad, Mum and Mrs Clark to the lecture by the Rev. A. Lynch. Very good. Fifteen of us there.

Saturday 11th January 1964 - Newton Abbott

Left Cattistock at 12mid. (no letters from Jimmy yet). At Shilly's by 1.50pm. Dull, rather foggy day. Sat and watched TV all afternoon. Sewed a bit. Very cold in her flat as usual!! Play by Bernard Shaw "Androcles and the Lion." Rather good. (1912)

Sunday 12th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Got up late. Quiet day. Went to shop for pie. Sat in till 4pm. Snowing. Went to tea with Mrs Banstead and daughter.

Letter - 12th Jan 1964

from - Mrs Doris A. Rogers, 48 Denton Street, Stratford, NZ - 

to - Mrs V. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England

Dear Mrs Heath-Caldwell,

I did not write before Christmas - I had an illness which affected my sight somewhat - also I just could not wish you a merry Christmas, knowing how distressed you must be about your son. I cannot understand the whole affair - it is quite beyond me. I could not do the work for our ordinary Christmas party, but felt that as I had had the little family for Easter and Christmas for so many times, that I felt I could not leave Dora and the Children out especially as her own mother and step-father just went off to Auckland on holiday just a few days before Christmas Day - so Lucy invited them and with me - we had a very quiet day - the children were quite good.

Lucy had a very nice tree with presents for all. I stayed a few days and came back to get ready for Bill,who was coming home for New Year, bringing two Malayan Chinese Colombo Plan students - sons of rubber planters. It as very interesting to hear of their way of living and the problems of rubber and exports and imports and so on. Bill took them round three farms  - sheep, dairy and fat stock - and milk - also up the mountain - we had a hectic few days, but I really enjoyed having them. 

I sent Jimmie a book - "Chichester's Journey Across the Atlantic." He sent me a nice letter of thanks. So I say, I just cannot understand the situation. I can just show friendship when it is needed, and I have a feeling that Dora is making friends, and will not need me. However, apart from Jimmie, I'm sure I shall not mind that.

On Wednesday of this week I shall be returning to the hospital at New Plymouth for further operation and treatment - I do hope, the last. At the moment the sight is not very clear - hence the writing, please excuse.

Lucy is very well - she had a very enjoyable trip to Japan  which impressed her very favourably. She liked the people and admired their industry. She brought me back nice things, including a charming baby doll - really Japanese. I had one when I was small and used to love it.

I, myself, had a nice trip down the West Coast of the South Island, across to Christchurch and home via Nelson by plane. I travelled on a (View?)- Master and saw quite a bit of the Southern Alps and some of the lakes - a perfect flight on a perfect day. I was in the Inangahua Rise flood too - quite exciting. The bus driver decided to tackle it - we were the last to get through.

After all the hospital business is over, I am looking forward to seeing Nicholas and Margaret who say they are returning later in the year.

I do hope you have a happier NewYear. If I could help in any way - I would.

Kindest regards from Doris Rogers.

Diary of MIss P. Heath-Caldwell

Monday 13th January 1964 - Newton Abbott

Stan Rowden passed his test. Weather bad. Cold, and more snow forcast. Left 11.30am. Fairly bright till just beyond Honiton. Nearly skidded into hedge, car behind us did. Shilly marvellous. Stopped at Hunters Lodge, Axminster for lunch at 12.45pm. Good steak. Shilly had fish. Snowing hard - car fairly covered when we came out. Difficult driving to Bridport - Charmouth bad. Home by 3.15pm. Shilly took a new pill before we arrived! Did not go to Blandford.

Tuesday 14th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Very foggy dull day. Felt very tired. Nothing much in the morning. Shilly stayed in bed till lunch. I rested all afternoon. Mummy and Shilly went to the shops. Compact in the evening. Cancelled lunch with Joyce and art school.

Wednesday 15th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Quiet day. Felt a little less tired. Nothing much in the morning. Slept a bit and washed clothes in the afternoon. Went to art school in the evening, which I nearly forgot. Friday 7pm.

Thursday 16th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Foggy in morning. Sun shone in the afternoon. Biked to see Mrs Rees whois going to hospital tomorrow. Mummy and Shilly went for a walk just before tea! Letter from Joyce3 Padwick.

Friday 17th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Not quite so cold. Nothing much in the morning. Took Shilly to have her hair set in the afternoon. Went on into Dorchester to take library books. Met Mac. who brought them out for me. Stopped Maiden Newton for shopping. Got ready for Joe, who arrived just as I was leaving for lecture, which was good. Good books. Excellent seeing Joe who is fearfully tall.

Saturday 18th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Foggy. Took Joe round the village before he left. Quiet day. Letter from Mrs Rogers.

notes - Mrs Rees. Mary O'Neill. Joe. Dentist. New cheque book. Can cheque wed. Michelangelo, David. Uncle Irving and Buzzie. Grace Maddock.

Sunday 19th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Daddy went to the early service on his own. I went to 11am with myself! Strangers behind me. Good sermon from Brinky on Methodism and unity. Find out about meeting. Came back - Shilly and Mummy had had a row! Rested for a bit in the afternoon. Good TV at night. Play ended "The Father" by Strindbery - like Jim's case! Good about Michelangelo.

Monday 20th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Still wet and foggy. Shilly had breafast in bed so usual. Choral at Blandford in the evening. Foggy, but we got there!

Tuesday 21st January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Foggy day again. Set off at 12mid. Lunch with Joyce and Paddi at 16 Lower Odcombe. Arrived late at art class. did one of the women there - quite a success. Took Joyce, Peggy back and had tea with them. Back here. Grant had rung up.

Wednesday 22nd January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good concert, Concert in E.major - Bach. Syman Goldberg. Postcard from Grace. Went into Dorchester with Shilly and Mummy. Lunch and good shopping in Genge's. Back by 3.15pm. Good art class. Took Mr Dowell's daughter - good result.

Thursday 23rd January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Clear day. Left Pound House 11am. At Newton Abbott at 2.20pm. Lunch in Honiton. Window shopped. Watched TV. Tory party gave themselves away. Cold! Oh very cold!

Friday 24th January 1964 - Torquay

Cold day. Went shopping in the morning. Also after lunch, and walked round the park. Went off to the Pavilion at Torquay to see "The Importance of Being Earnest." Very good indeed. Were welcomed by Lady Roper and Lady Henderson!

Saturday 25th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Left about 11.30am. Bad fog south of Telegraph Hill, to beyond Exeter. Also at Axminster. Back at 1.30pm. Mummy had felt giddy on Friday. Slept in the afternoon, watched TV in the evening.

Sunday 26th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Mum and Dad went to early service. I went to 6.30pm. Took down sermon - quite good. I cooked some of dinner. Did W.I. thing in the afternoon, and then went dow to see Mrs Luckoch at Melford's Mill. She has written a book (children's history).Geoffrey may come to Blandford with us.

Monday 27th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Worked on W.I. thing. (folder for headquarters) most of day. Foggy and wet. Letter from Jimmy - better, but he is depressed still. Went round to Peggy, who showed me some of her pictures - a fairly good one of Elizabeth I thought. Went to Blandford with Mrs Robinson. Slogging evening with Bach's magnificent. On way back went to someone's help for petrol.

Tuesday 28th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Mummy stayed in bed for breakfast. Went off at 12mid to lunch with Joyce and Paddi Padwick. She had a book translated into Chinese! Must get it. Good art class - should I be in the colour department? Fridays? Back to tea with the Padwicks. Game of Scrabble, rather fun. Home by 8pm.

Wednesday 29th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Mum doing room, though she said she felt giddy. Letter from BO. After lunch went to Dorchester with Lily. Found good chair at Shepherd and Hodgers. Travel agency. Passage April or May. Art in the evening. Jane on about dishonesty.

Thursday 30th January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Wrote to dentist, Nancy, Mrs Cozans. Good day. Mummy still preparing the room.

Letter - 30th Jan 1964

Mrs Tim Harris, P.O. Box 16,Okaiawa, Taranaki -

to Mrs V. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England

My dearest Dears,

I have made several attempts to write this letter but every time had someone call on me as it is holiday time over here - so I am writing this early in the morning with Heidie (my dog) and two kittens in attendance. You will be pleased to know that Doris (Rodgers) is safely over her operation. She had had a slight stroke at Xmas but seems quite recovered. She had a local aneasthetic.

Last Sunday I took Jimmy up to New Plymouth to visit her. She was able to see him. They had quite a bright talk. Jimmy is looking extremely well.

On the way home I asked him if he would like to call on Dora. He said it would be of no use as she considers he has "let her down." It ill behoves me to criticize persons who have been guests in my house but I find these folk hard to understand. In the parlance of my mother they are rather fourth rate, having apparently no consideration of others feelings, privacy or ideas.

The Mother took unmitigated liberties in my house. One little example: I hade one concession to modern art - fancy bricks and dressed NZ timber to make book shelves; decorated with cyclinder of bi-coloured string etc. When I came home from Japan, I found the bricks thrown out into the garden. The shelves nailed together and painted PINK. I was expected to admire this atrocity. I was speechless. My house was "SPRING CLEANED." !!!! 

Since I have come home I have done nothing but repair, renovate and replace. I can understand Jmmy's deep depression.  Anyway (continues)

31st Jan 1964 (No.2)

Mrs Tim Harris, P.O. Box 16, Okaiawa, Taranaki, New Zealand

to Mrs V. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dochester, England

I think Jimmy's chief trouble is that he has married out of his own class. I thought Mr and Mrs B were rather mean leaving Dora and the children at Xmas time. No one else had asked them out and Doris and I felt rather sorry about it. 

Oh! dear! Oh! dear! Shades of my ancestors. The words "shut-up" have always been anethema to our family.

I saw the new Trowbridge baby - a beautiful child. The atmosphere in that home is very tranquil. I am hoping to have Jimmy down to visit me and will get some nice young people to meet him. I received Mr C.'s letters and assured Mr McCarthy that I would do anything to help Jimmy. Mr & Mrs B. turned up here last night and asked me straight out if I had heard from you - I was evasive - I suppose they are wondering what I know - Mrs T told me a little bit and it all lines up with Mrs B's interfering ways. I hope this letter does not upset you - but it is the truth as I see it.

I hope this finds you in the best of health and spirits. Jimmy said Patricia may come over. I would like to have her stay with me if she would care to do so.

Much love to you both from Lucy Harris.

Diary of MIss P. Heath-Caldwell

Friday 31st January 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Biked to Maiden Newton. Saw Mrs Rees. (Mr) Boys! Mrs Brinkworth and him with a cuppa. Mummy still doing room. Read book - Mrs Kraft came across to play the piano, we had fun. I conducted. Went to the lecture in the evening. Quite amusing for a change. Brought back Mrs Rees - Daddy gave her the address of Osteopath - Aspinall.

Saturday 1st February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Woke with a headache. Quite a nice day, except for a few unkind things which Mummy and Daddy said. Perhaps it is better to be deaf as I once was.

Sunday 2nd February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Daddy went to the early service. I went to 11am. Saw G.Luckock who is coming tomorrow night. Rested in the afternoon. Played piano pm. Americans hit moon, but no photographs.

Monday 3rd February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter from E.Turner. Also Nancy. Cleared out room in morning - fine day. Went to Blandford with Geoffrey Luckock and Mrs Robinson. Quite a success. Danny was sick. Doctor came in the afternoon to see Mummy.

Tuesday 4th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day on the whole. Arrived late at Joyce and Paddi's (Awful letter from Sheila etc and MRA in morn) Painting improving. Joyce very tired. Possibility of going to London to see Goya expedition(sic). Went with note to committee meeting to see if Mr Renvoizi could play "Jerusalem" for me. He said he would (Practice 6pm on Wednesday).

Wednesday 5th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Felt rather tired. Went down in afternoon to see Mary Cake and tell her that the travel agency had rung to say 24th April OK. Went into Dorchester with Daddy in the morning. Went to bank, and travel agency - to book passage and to Gregatis for camera. Went to the art class in the evening, did one of Mr Dowell's daughter. Went and asked Mr Renvoizi if he would do piano - said he would.

Thursday 6th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Terrific letters from Jimmy and also from Mrs Harris to Mum. Went and saw Mrs Dowell with sketches, also Mrs Rees about tomorrow. All afternoon wrote out words. Went to W.I. Peggy Grant's quite good - but mine a complete flop! Rang up Bo the same evening.

Friday 7th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Fair day - getting ready for lunch party. The two old Padwicks came - quite a success. Mummy felt she had a cold coming, so took two doses of quinine. She came back wiht us in the car to see the Padwick's cottage. Late tea. Lecture in the evening, quite interesting, saw a film about a monastery. Collected quite a lot of money. Back early.

Saturday 8th February 1964

Beagling all cannings. Set off at 11.30am. Cold frosty and foggy. Found the place about 2.15pm and caught up with Nancy who was with a little girl who was lost. Had a good afternoon, in by 7pm. Met Anthony Palmer, rather sweet little chap in a blue jersey. Took some of them back to college, then on here. Nice hot bath and so to bed.

- Owe telephone 62. Find out about R Health.

Sunday 9th February 1964 ?

Nancy went to the early service. I did not - I went to the 11am with Mrs Codrington, only she came in at a different time from me. Nancy went and fetched Anthony Palmer and Peter Hannan. Mrs Codrington went to lunch with Mary. We played Bali all afternoon, and then went for a walk round the garden and churchyard. Took boys back after tea. S. broke key.

Monday 10th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Left about 10am. Back here at 1.15pm for lunch. Cleaned car after lunch and had bonfire. Singing in the evening with G.Luckock and Mrs Robinson. A copy each of Bach's Magnificent. Uneventful trip back.

Tuesday 11th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Up late - toothache in the night. Arrived late at the Padwich's. Nice lunch - Indonesian Cabbage!! Finished picture - not pleased with it. Took Miss Toomey back with us. Interesting talk about art. Back about 7.30pm. Good programme on TV.

Wednesday 12th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Fairly good day. Nothing much doing in the morning. Mrs Kennard came to tea, made cheese and tomato sandwiches. Art class. Drew Jane - also a tea port the others did. Boy Marshall did not come. Neither Mrs Sykes or Mrs Hereward. Reading "The Methodist Conversations." Brinky had flu.

Thursday 13th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter from Nancy - all is forgiven. Also one of the berth on the "Northern Star." Went into Dorchester. Mummy in bed all the afternoon. Took some apples to Mrs Brinkworth - he is off colour. Played organ for a bit. Cleaned car. Very cold wind, also rain last thing.

Friday 14th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

No Valentines. Took Mum into Dorchester. Raining hard some of morning. Slept in the afternoon because of toothache - Took Aspro. WEA Civilisation Lectures - good. Film of Romanesque architecture.

Saturday 15th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Mum's birthday. Flowers from Danny and Ros. Little china present from Ros. David's confirmation, but Ros did not go, as one of the twins was ill. Had pheasant for lunch, and Mrs Craft came to tea, stayed till 7.30pm. Good film on TV.

Memoranda - Honey in cupboard (what to do with same) Patterns for dress. Car transport.Write Grace. Finish car. Spiced beef.

Sunday 16th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Mum and Daddy went to early service. I didn't but felt very tired out - aches and pains. Joyce Giblin rang up to ask us to tea. Daddy and Mum went, I did not, but fed the hens and took Mrs Wills to church. Very good sermon from Mr Ginever. Lit fire. Mum and Dad back late on account of fog.

Monday 17th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Damp dull day. Lily said trying to snow. So no washing.Alexis home for lunch. Cleaned car in the afternoon. Cold wind. Mrs Craft's and Mrs Kennard's sow about Canada. Picked Mrs Robinson up there. Also Geoffrey. Good evening singing. Clear night.

Tuesday 18th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Fairly good day. Left at 12mid. Paddi had cold, so had hearts for lunch - then went on my own to the art class. Peggy G. not there. Dropped Mis Toomey at Five Ways. Back to tea with Joyce. Then home and on to supper with Mrs Leader. Late bed because of "eternal" washing up. Michelangelo died 400 years ago.

Wednesday 19th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Went into Dorchester with Mummy. She had her eyes tested, they were alright. Morningt tea at Genge's. Made bread, and went to see Mrs Brinkworth in the afternoon. Marshall did not come. Mrs Carpenter brought her husband - quite fun doing him. Bed 11.15pm.

Thursday 20th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Still very cold. Went to Yeovil, but shops shut so on to Sherborne. Very good fun - found nice furniture shop. Bought cups, and material for curtains. Went to bed a bit earlier. Took Twinkle - not good - had to take him down at 12.30am.

Friday 21st February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day - still cold wind. Shopped in morning. Letters to Danny and Ros. Went into Dorchester after lunch. Sent flowers to Grace and took some to Mary Butler. Mum bought another corset. Lecture in the evening. Full attendance, except Mrs Austin, Mr Lynch thirsty. Parcell sent Amanda - Ros's book returned. Letters written and posted to Danny and Ros.

Saturday 22nd February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Fair day. No washing up machine yet! Mum in a very bad temper to start with but improved as day went on. Had interesting food - mushrooms, lettuce etc.

Memoranda - Write Grace. Collect book from Smiths.

Sunday 23rd February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

I went to early service, Daddy did not. Mrs Craft there and a very few other people. Mummy feeling very exhausted as she was sick and etc in the night. Cooked lunch, in a bad temper. Water in at Daddy's study. Washed up all afternoon - and listened to wireless at the same time. Went to tea with Mrs Craft. Back watched TV. Good " Meeting Point, " also singing.

Monday 24th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Dentist 11.30am. Went into Yeovil 5 minutes late. Temporary stopping with Mr Harvey. Small amount shopping. Rested in the afternoon. Went to Blandford singing with Geoffrey and Mrs Robinson. Good practice. He went to point.

Tuesday 25th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Concert 7.30pm Dorchester. Take to Joyce "Music in Dorset." Operas at Bournemouth - art magazine. Joyce rang up to say "flu" was bad. Could not go to crit(?) I took Mrs Weaver in. Rather a dull subject - plaster cast of man. My picture a monstrosity!! Concert in the evening with Mrs Craft to Mrs Kennard. Quite nice concert but do not like her C. She drove us well back in fog.

Wednesday 26th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter from Bee. Mary Webber. Good day. Went into Dorchester. Very wet. Art in the evening. Jane asked about Marshall. Mrs Hereward not there, nor Marshall. Did Mr Carpenter - who is he?

Thursday 27th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Nothing much in morning. Took car to be mended in the afternoon. Walked back.Twinkle and Danny very naughty wiht the rams in the Creswell's field. Brinky's film night. Not many Confirmation candidates there.

Quiet evening. Bed early 11pm.

Friday 28th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Very hot I thought. Biked to Maiden Newton after lunch. Saw Mrs Rees, Dr Hereward, the Greenaways. Nothing wrong with the car. Letter from Mrs Connerton. Washing up machined man came. Stayed to tea. Good meeting at Maiden Newton with Rev. Lynch. Cups to tea all round. Toothache.

Letter - 28th Feb 1964

from Mrs Enid Cookson, No.4 R.D., Stratford, New Zealand

To Capt. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England

Dear Capt. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell & Pat, also Danny & Twinkle-toes

Well, we had Jim and Colin out to see us the other night and it would have done you all good to see Jim look so well, he looked fit (not quite so fat) and very young looking. His talk was interesting and he himself was interested in all we had to say, in fact we reckoned he was 100% but talking to Clare the Doctor would like him to have 2 more months up at Tokonui.

(Got your letter this morning saying that Pat would arrive June)

Now Pat, if you come over in May we'll have plenty of spare beds by then so please make this your head-quarters. Jack was telling Jim that he was going to be taking 6 inches of all your dresses, get your hair done and high heeled shoes on your feet then all the batchelors for miles would be calling, just as well you don't mind him teasing you.

What a summer we have been getting, only a bit of rain one night in 5 weeks, things are certainly drying up. The sheep farmers are the worst. Kenneth got his hay in  - in good condition. By the way, he has bought Bell's farm next door, not Chamberlains, the other was going to cost such a lot to buy, also stock it, and now wool has gone up, so has the price of ewes, anyway Kenneth and Margaret will have a lovely new home to start of with.

I've got the garden looking neat and tidy, with a nice lot of winter stuff coming on. I put the sprinkler on each night and they are fresh looking, but the lawns are all big brown patches, only needs the mower run over them once a fortnight. 

Kenneth and I have been getting our winter supply of firewood in, our shed is full of neatly stacked up wood and we are now fitting up his shed on the other farm, he doesn't take over until May but they are letting him fill the shed up and put things in the garden, by the way will it be alright if Jack sees the Public Trust also Jim about renting Jims house for 6 to 8 weeks. Kenneth gets married April 4th but can't get into the house until the end of May. He did mention a caravan and then we thought of Jim's place, I hear its was left in an awful mess, also the ceiling tank had over-flowed and the place was (dacting?) inside.

Corrina has started teaching again and quite likes her new school, she hasn't got Hillary's class. She had two kittens to greet us, one a male the other a female sow we are expecting an increase one of these days. I have a little book for orders, and already two have got homes.The milk supply is dropping with this dry weather, I go over and help milk when Kenneth is away shearing or is busy at other jobs, I rather like the job, even if I do get covered with sweet violets...

When Jack has caught up with his work and isn't so tired we are going out to Colins and showing our films, the other night there was too much to talk about and the evening just seemed to fly by. 

Well its bed time for us. Jack must have his sleep he has lost over a stone in weight, as he had gained that while we were away he is now back to normal.

Remember us to all at Cattistock, is Lilly looking after you OK. thanks for sending on my broach. These letters won't allow you to get allyoun want written. 

Love to you all from Enid and Jack.

Diary of Pat Heath-Caldwell

Saturday 29th February 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Not a bad day. Felt fearfully tired in the evening and could not sleep. Went to see "From Russia with Love" with Leslie Hereward and Mummy instead of drawing them as planned. Good Brian Rix film in the evening on TV.

Memoranda - Travel agency - queries on envelop in drawer.

Sunday 1st March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Ached all day, and felt pretty (gross?) Went to church - excellent sermon from Brinky. I was almost moved to tears. Mummy did the lunch. We had one of the ducks. Rested all afternoon. Ached even into the evening. Dr Finlay (s Casebook?) and Cameron were good.

Monday 2nd March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter from J.Padwick. Also Nancy C. Wrote to B. Maddock. Wrote to Jim at last. Quiet day, felt pretty exhausted, wrote several letters to people. Pretty cold weather. To Blandford in the evening with Geoffrey and Mrs Robinson. Deep discussion on God etc.

Tuesday 3rd March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter from Boys, who can come to the concert on 16th at Dorchester. Another bonfire in the morning. Went and had lunch with Joyce and Paddi. Both recovered but not quite alright. So Joyce and I went for walk round Montacute in the afternoon. Very pleasant. Went into the church. Had tea with old Paddi, came home about 7pm.

Wednesday 4th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Beauty headache. Lily so untactful! Rested all morning and afternoon too. Art class in evening. Mr Carpenter.

Thursday 5th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Still cold. Went to Maiden Newton in the morning. Saw Mrs Rees. Went to Maiden Newton in pm in car to fix dress and get petrol. Did poster for concert and went off to supper with Jane - in tiny room.

Friday 6th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Letter from Cooksons. Good day, still cold. Mummy stayed in bed till lunch time. We went into Dorchester in the afternoon. Lecture in the evening. Quite interesting. Got the seats for Pete Grimis par telephone.

Saturday 7th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day to begin with. Cold, but fairly sunny. However after lunch Daddy started cleaning the heater and went on till 7pm. Had a fire in the sitting room!

Sunday 8th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Mummy went to early service. I did not. Daddy went to bed all day, headache as a result of yesterday's mending the stove. I fed the animals. Went to church in the evening. Good sermon from Brinky. Wrote to Elizabeth Turner.

Monday 9th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Daddy still in bed. Had nice spot of fresh air feeding animals morning and night. Geoffrey came later for the practice. He was rather depressed. Looking for a job.

Tuesday 10th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Peter Grimis. Left here 12.30pm. Went to art on my own after lunch with Joyce. Back 4.45pm. (return?) trip to The Pavilion, Bournemouth. Back 12 midnight. Play good but depressing. good scenery.

Wednesday 11th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Confirmation evening. Cold in morning. Shopped in Yeovil. Back for lunch. Lovely day, sat in the hut in the afternoon. Felt tired. Confirmation very crowded. Alexis Rowden alone. We sat next to Lily. Bishop Pile good. Went on to art afterwards. Last evening of Mr Carpenter.

Thursday 12th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Chard a.m. Wet day in the morning. Went into Dorchester to see about ticket. Coffee at Genges with Mummy. Rested in the pm in bed. Dull, windy and wet all day. Church Annual General Meeting in the eveing. Col. Luckock and Major Grant came in to see us afterwards.

Friday 13th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Lovely day. Quite warm. Bees out. Sat in hut after lunch. Boys came round after tea. Lecture last one. Quite good. In the morning went and saw Mrs Clark - coffee with her.

Saturday 14th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Art course. Good day. Set off at 11.30am with Mrs Hereward for Art technical College at Yeovil. Had to abstract art!! Left 5.30pm with Mrs H. Quietish eveing. - Travel agency. Vaccination certificate.

Sunday 15th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Daddy went to early service. I left to go to Yeovil where I finished the abstract painting. Back and picked up Joyce when when she came to lunch. On to the concert at the Plaza. Over by 4.15pm. Boys came too. Joyce caught train at 5.30pm. Church at Chilfrome. Good sermon from Brinky.

Monday 16th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Maiden Newton with Mummy to have her hair set in the afternoon. Filling(?) with Mrs Downton. Blandford in the evening. Exhausting singing! but got through the Magnificent. Home later 10.15pm. Last time!!

Tuesday 17th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Raining and turning to snow. Did not lie. Went to Joyce P's stopping at Mrs Hereward's on the way. She did a good portrait. Late for art class with Joyce! Must be early next time. Left her at 7pm. Very heavy snow sleet coming down. Reached home at 8pm.

Wednesday 18th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Wet day all day. Men working in house. Played piano in the afternoon. Out in the evening. Still life.

Thursday 19th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Floods in night. Men all day long. Cleaned out my room. Walked to Wall's Farm and had Oberammagau record played on Mary's record. Bach.

Friday 20th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went off 10.30am to TImberscombe to get Elizabeth J. Had lunch. Back by 5.30pm. Walked round village with her. Met Boys. Went to rectory to see Mrs Brinky. Can't come. Saw Mrs Clark.

Saturday 21st March 1964- Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Concert. Blandford. Leave 1.15pm. Lovely fine morning. Sat in garden. Left at 1.15pm for Blandford. Rehearsal until 4pm. Walked round grounds. Had another sing song. The concert was a huge success, but I felt very tired. Mrs Lacock and Ann Lacock came and Mrs Robinson's daughter and friend. I was sick bringing back Elizabeth and Mrs Clark.

Memoranda - Dear and Glorious Physician by Taylor Caldwell "Collins" 1959 Ros, Mum, Mrs R. p 500. Elizabeth T. Spare room. Redford's taxi. Concert on Saturday night. Brinkworths. Another good book about politics Hugh Foot "A Start in Freedom."

Sunday 22nd March 1964 - Palm Sunday - Cattistock, Dorset

Daddy went to the service early. We go up latish. Went for walk in afternoon with the dogs and Elizabeth. Twinkle escaped but was re-caught. Danny split his lead. I went to the evening service, which was a film. We sat in the front row. Watched "Dr Finlay in Love."

Monday 23rd March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

(To Nancy in off time tea) Woke with headache, so stayed in bed. Daddy to (MET?) in Taunton. I slept all afternoon. Up in evening, but went to bed early. No cuts yet. Nice fine day.

Tuesday 24th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Quiet day - it needed to be! Went down to post with letters for Shilly, Nancy and Jimmy. TV in evening. Concert.

Wednesday 25th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Mrs Downton 2.30pm. Mrs Rees. Did parcels for nephews and nieces. Had dress fitted at Madien Newton. Took Lily down to Doreen's land fetched her. Saw Mary Cake. Art class in the evening after Evensong. Same film as Sunday. Robin Cake came with me.

Thursday 26th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went into Dorchester with Mummy. Back before lunch because Lily had daughter home from school. Sat in hut in the afternoon. Lovely warm sun. Slept a bit. Dogs very noisy. Barked a lot.

Friday 27th March 1964 - Good Friday - Cattistock, Dorset

Well all went to 11am service. Daddy stayed till 1pm. After lunch in the hut for a bit. Went to film service in the evening. Very good I thought. Sat with the McDonalds.

Saturday 28th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Cold day. Rather leaden sky. Went to Maiden Newton with Peggy Grant to shop. Slept in the afternoon after watching the boatrace. Cambridge won by 6 1/2 lengths.

Memoranda - Shilly's birthday. Eastern Cards, children. Owe Mummy 6/- to 10/- Also Telephone 2/6 and 2/-. Letters Danny, Grace, people in Australia, Frasers, Davies. Nancy, Jim (again!) WEA.

Sunday 29th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Awake early from car going up and down the road. Bells at 6.35am up to 8am service. Big crowd. Also 11am and 6pm. Spoke to Geoffrey Luckock. Scouts called in the afternoon. Danny and Ros rung up. Danny coming here in a week's time.

Monday 30th March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Another cold and rather dull day. We washed in the morning, and I rested in the afternoon. Good thriller on TV at night - "The Moving Toyshop" by Edmund Crispin. Surely there will be a letter from Jimmy tomorrow.

Tuesday 31st March 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Still cold. Went into Dorchester with Mummy. Sure of Rangitane booking. Back 12.30pm. Went to Maiden Newton in the afternoon. Saw Mr Rees, also Mrs Carpenter. Letter from Jim, normal. Staying another month with Colin.

Wednesday 1st April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Another cold day. Went to tea with Joyce Padwick to work out accounts. Daddy rather down with Rheumatism. Chloe not yet found.

Thursday 2nd April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

W.I. Party. Mrs Downton. Mrs Greenaway. Bank. McDonald. Insurance office. Mrs Egerton called in the morning. I went to Mrs Downton and Greenaway, saw Mrs Clark. Tea with Mrs Egerton. Took books to Wrackleford House (Pope's) W.I. Party. Saw Barbara MacDonald re accounts. Alec Grant popped in - W.I. party, good film about Scotland to do with "Ring of Bright Water."

Friday 3rd April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went into Dorchester. Paid remainder of ticket £164. After lunch, still very cold. Sat in sitting room reading. Went round to MacDonald's three times and got accounts finished alright.

Saturday 4th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Snow everywhere. Very wet. Pleasant, quiet birthday. Presents from Mary Cake and Lily - £20 from Daddy, a petticoat from Mummy. Mummy's cake was good. Sleeted and snowed all day. - Memoranda - WEA. Bank. Jane re Black sheep, & Joyce. Leather strap suitcase. Vaccination? Insurance. Mrs MacD. Palmers. Mary Langham. Frasers. Bartrops. Cooksons. Davies. Brinkman. Miss Banks. cheque Redfords.

Sunday 5th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Went to 11am service. Went to tea with Miss Leader. Saw her friend. Danny arrives tomorrow.

Monday 6th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Getting ready for Danny. She arrived about 4pm. Brinkworths came in before that. Sophie has a cold. Brought me a lovely passport and label.

Tuesday 7th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Art starts again (did not go) Went for a walk in the afternoon. Sophie cried while we were out. Mummy coped alright.

Wednesday 8th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went into Dorchester. Also saw Mrs Greenaway. Had an address for Jimmy. Also went to sea - Nice sunny day. Good play in the evening - Anouhh.

Thursday 9th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Meeting - Rectory about union with Methodists. Fine day. Joan Mitchell rang up - and came up to us. Her son has had an accident - and cut his face badly. We went for a walk in the afternoon, down to Mrs Egerton's and Joan's. Went round her garden. Quiet evening.

Friday 10th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Lily's birthday. Set off early to go to Charltons at Swanage, after welcoming Lily with happy birthday etc; Stopped in Dorchester. Reached Swanage about 12.45pm. Went round the town in the afternoon - back by 7pm. Mummy very tired she said. Had taken quinine and so went to bed early.

Saturday 11th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Mummy stayed in bed. I got the doctor, who came up. Mrs Ginever rang up to say could Daddy take a service - as her husband was ill. Danny went for a walk in the afternoon with the children. I slept in garden hut and then on my bed. -

Memoranda - "Grass Roots." Patricia Chater. Hodder & Stoughton.

Sunday 12th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Ros birthday. Damp day, inclined to be foggy. Quiet - cooked lunch. Ma came down (eventually??) Took the children and dogs for a walk. Went to church. Sermon on unity with Methodists. Rang up Ros, spoke to John. Then Ros rang us up later on.

Monday 13th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Dentist 11am. Went off at 10.30am. Two stoppings. Very good. Danny went off 11.30am. Dr Hereward came in the afternoon. Good advice about J. Also Mr Strawbridge. Letter to Daddy from M. Langston. Jim is well. Went to Maiden Newton, trains. Mum very tired 'Trent's art case.' TV good Joyce P. rang up.

Tuesday 14th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Quiet day. Saw Mrs Kennard.

Wednesday 15th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Took cot around to Mrs Wall. Reached Taunton at 12.25pm. Had a good lunch with Elizabeth at Chapmans. She caught 2.40pm but. Back here at 4.30pm. Went to Mrs Downtons. Nancy C rang up. Berths in Rangitane next year.

15th April 1964

from - Clare R. Trowbridge, Eltham Road, Kaponga R.D. New Zealand

 to Mrs V. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England. 
Dear Mrs Heath-Caldwell,

This letter seens long overdue, but I'll hope you understand its delay because our little son takes up a good deal of our time - mine especially. He is growing into a sturdy little chap and is well above average size. I have just finished breast feeding him, and now he has started solids. He loves porridge for breakfast, but as yet is not very fond of vegetables. Julie thinks he is just wonderful and is wanting to nurse him all the time. She seems to get anything I need for him - and she certainly saves my weary legs a step or two. I am so glad she is not jealous of him, as it would make things very awkward indeed.

I must thank you for your very kind gifts which you gave Jane to bring for us. It was so very kind of you and I greatly appreciate your thoughts. The little romper suit will be perfect for Gregory this winter, as I was going to have to get him something within the next couple of weeks, because he has grown out of his first size suit. So you couldn't have chosen anything better.

The dress for Julie is delightful but she'll need to wait for next winter to wear it, as it is a little too big. I had already bought her a white pleated skirt for this winter, so your gift will prove invaluable next year and save me having to make her a new dress. She loves pretty clothes and is a real little fuss-pot - she doesn't like to get dirty, which is just as well in a girl.

I don't own any initialled handkerchiefs so your gift is most acceptable and useful. It was indeed a lovely surprise to receive these gifts when Jane opened her trunks. She had to wait nearly three weeks before the railways railed her trunks from Auckland. 

We received a letter from Colin's mother today, she seemed under the impression that Jim had been discharged, but he isn't completely discharged yet, although he's been expecting to hear from the Hospital any day now. He is really very well and we feel he has completely got over his 'illness' but now unfortunately he has to face the prospect of life without his 3 children, which is enough to upset any man, let along a man like Jim.

He is going up Rotorua way next week and hopes to gain employment with the Forestry Association which is a Governmnent Department. Today he has been to town and bought himself new working shirts and socks and articles that he'll need. He seems to have so few personal bits and pieces (wallet, comb,toilet bag etc) so I suppose they are still with Dora.

Colin spoke to McCarthy the lawyer, who in turn spoke to Jim and suggested a separation but Jim won't hear of it because he thinks Dora should have so much money as he can let her have, so the children won't want for anything. Maybe he'll change his mind before long.

I must close now. My regards to Mr Heath-Caldwell and yourself. Tell Pat we'll be glad to welcome her when she arrives. 

Sincerely, Clare

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell 

Thursday 16th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went into Dorchester. Daddy stayed in bed all day. Brought back George Langford. Geoffrey Luckock called in the afternoon, is ill. Fed animals. Felt very tired. Wrote a few more people.

Letter - 16th April 1964

JAHC - c/o Collin Troubridge, Eltham Road, R.D., Kaponga, Taranaki.

to  Mrs V. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset,England

Dear Ma,

Thank you very much for the birthday present you sent me which I had clean forgotten about till Pat wrote and reminded me. My memory these days isn't too hot thanks partly, Pat says, to these tranquilisers that I'm taking three times a day.

On Monday I'm departing from here and am off up to the hospital at Tokanui at which I shall stay for  a day or two. There I shall see my doctor and see if I can't get myself de-certified as that is a bit of a nuisance when getting jobs.

From there I shall go to a place called KAWERAU where I shall try to get a job in a large paper mill there - if that does not work I shall continue up to Rotorua and try to find some job with the NZ Forestry Service. Just what will happen if that does not come off I don't yet know.

Yesterday evening Martin Langdon and Rex Morgan came over to more or less say good bye, I suppose. They talked all evening to Colin about all sorts of things agricultural which a year or two ago I might have found interesting but which just left me cold. It helps to have a common interest. I even forgot to thank Martin for all that he has done for me recently. 

I'm afraid I can't remember birthday dates - I have even forgotten Hilary's and Jeremy's birthdays - can you remember them? I do know that Anthony's is on 17th Nov. Isn't it awful?

The weather just lately has been very mild for this time of year and everything seems to be doing well. The grass grows like nobody's business - that is the basis of all the wealth of course.

Hope you are all well and the dogs of course. Apart from the extra tax on beer, cigarettes and drink I suppose the budget has done no harm to you. The papers say that it has been an unpopular one though and calculated to put Labour back again in October.

Love Jimmy,

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell 

Friday 17th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Dry. Pleasant. Daddy was up, but bit bad tempered - naturally I suppose. Quiet morning, cleaning suitcases, dresses etc. Too many. Read the book about bishops. Saw Bo. Boys had three pairs of socks stolen from him while in Rome. Brinky came in and told us about his exam. Mummy had a headache. Daddy had the machine back. Rang Mrs Marsh, wanted some clothes.

Saturday 18th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Cattistock Point to point. Did not go. Went to Maiden Newton on foot with Mrs Holly. Donna had another son at 2pm. Good plays on TV.

Memoranda - National Health stamps - card. Keep to suitcases. Vaccination certificate - spots? Lois Pres for Fred. Lois' baby. Wood. Box to bank. 6pm. Stockings. Johnsons - ticket. Timegates. mycil powder. Swimsuit? 2 prs nylons. Small belt.

Letter - 18th Aprl 1964

E.Cookson, No.4 R.D., Stratford, New Zealand,

to Capt. & Mrs Heath-Coldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Maiden Newton, Dorset, England,

Dear Capt & Mrs Heath-Coldwell, 

It would do you both good if you could see Jim and see how well he is looking, we had a very pleasant evening with Colin, Clare and Jim, we showed our slides of you ones, also some taken in London. Jack also had some movies to show them.

Jim goes Monday up north, the change away from this area may ben do more for him although to Jack and I he looked 100%. He is not sure where he will get work but seems sure it will be either in the timber mills or in the forestry. Jack asked him if he ever thought of going back on the farm and he said "No, not without Dora and the kids." 

The children are well. Corrina sees a lot of Hilary and says she is one of the best dressed little girls that goes to school, she also says Jeremy is a very nice little boy, so Dora, for the public's sake is making a good show as far as the children are concerned, we haven't been near her since that time we called shortly after we came home.

Well you'll both be feeling very lonely without Pat so I hope this news of Jim cheers you up. We are looking forward to seeing Pat and I hope she enjoys her stay over here. We told Jim to come down one weekend while she was with us, I'm affraid he's taking it very quietly, Pat coming over, but perhaps when he sees her it may make a difference.

The weather is still staying fine and we wonder for how long. Its been like this since before Easter, today Margaret and I went with Kenneth to watch him play football and it was like a summer day, children running around bare-footed. I had the garden all tidy for the wedding but there has been such a lot of growth the weeds are coming up thick and fast, so I'll have to go over it all again, by night time it does get cooler and I wouldn't be surprised if we had a frost tonight.

I enjoyed milking the cows while Kenneth was away and intended to get up and help them in the mornings but when he came, somehow knowing he was in the shedI'd say to myself, "I'll lie just another 5 minutes," by that time I'd be fast asleep, but I do intend helping in the Spring.Corrina is cooking tea tonight and in between she is busy knitting.

We got our T.V. going temporary and it was quite good, now we've got it installed permanently by someone who is supposed to be an expert, now it won't go and Jack can't get hold of the chap. I think he must disconnect his phone at nights. Once again I am at the end of writing space, so look after yourselves and remember us to all

.
Love from Enid and Jack XXX

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell

Sunday 19th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went to 11am and Communion at Sherborne Abbey, taken by Canon Wingfield Digby. Quiet afternoon. Went to Chilfrome in the evening on bicycle.

Monday 20th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Went into Dorchester in pouring rain - very wet in PM. Mrs Luckock and Susan came in with book, also the doctor for Daddy who was not very well.

Tuesday 21st April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Got ready packing etc. Walked up to Mrs Hennings in the afternoon. Saw Mrs Clark who enjoyed herself at the WEA weekend. Two strange men called for carpets, and the yard.

Wednesday 22nd April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Good day. Went in and had lunch with Mrs Marsh. Bach. Met Mummy in Dorchester. Fine evening.

Thursday 23rd April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Ghastly day really. Took in luggage to Dorchester in the morning. Bought myself a new swmsuit, also bra. Jim's friend Freddie came to tea and got very worked up with Daddy about Jimmy. Freddie himself is better.

Friday 24th April 1964 - Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset

Sail NZ, Southampton. 10-10.30am Dorchester Train 7.52am arrives Southampton 9.15am. Cabin M.140 Passenger on SS. Northern Star from Southampton to Wellington. Cunard Steam Co. Ltd, Canute Rd, Southampton. Fine send off. Left Mum and Dad at Southampton South 7.45am and then the fun began. Could not phone on ship. Rusers cross questioning each other. Upset. Rest on bunk. Had soup only for supper.

Saturday 25th April 1964 - SS Northern Star

Was sick and had to spend day on bunk. Cabin boy brought me bovril which helped. Gave him £1.

SS Northen Star at Southamtpon - from New Zealand Maritime Record

http://www.nzmaritime.co.nz/nstar.htm



Sunday 26th April 1964 - SS Northern Star

Did not get up for breakfast. Went to "Divine Service" with Miss Woods. Quite nice. Then had tea, and lunch with two odd bods! Rested all afternoon. Supper at 6pm. Went to a concert afterwards. Bed by 10pm.

Monday 27th April 1964 - SS Northern Star

Met the Ingletons in the lounge. They had been back to New Zealand 4 times since 1952. He looked ill. Women's hour 2.30pm.

Letter - Monday, 27th April 1964 - No.1

from Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, The Lounge, SS Northern Star 

to Captain the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England

Dear Ma and Pa,

At last - here it comes! All the latest from (W?)!! A post-card will come but be a bit late. Well, I think it was a pity you didn't come in the end, as it was a lovely day and the ship did not sail till about 4pm. They kept on saying that visitors must get off the ship, so there must have been some on.

We have had the most lovely weather, flatish calm and today there is sunshine about and its 60 degrees and humidity 80 (which possibly makes us feel rather exhausted). Today we are passing down the coasts of Morocco, and tomorrow down the coasts of Las Palmas, Canary Islands, in the morning and leave again in the evening. Here is an outline of everything, it really was alrgiht till I'd waved goodbye to you - but I really don't intend to see myself off again to New Zealand on my own!! 

As far as Wareham I travelled with a whole party of school girls (I suppose) but they looked dreadfully adult if you know what I mean!!

Then two elderly business men got in (rather talking like Godfrey Marsh) all about the improvement they should make to Bournemouth etc and how could Mr Marples possibly abolish railways as they neither of them owned cars - because by the time they had got them out and cleaned them etc it was time to put them back in again at weekends. (I must say I rather agreed with that). 

Also, as we were getting into Southampton I saw the most enormous queues of cars stretching into the town. There again I do not think it would have matterd if we'd been later than 10.30am.

We got into that foyer place (which seemed much smaller this time) and there we waited till 10.am. I saw 3 telephone kiosks there, and I suppose I could have phoned - but the change had not lasted out. 
Finally I walked up the gangway feeling awfully silly - with my hat case and writing case and was quite breathless by the time I got to the top (old age creeping on I suppose). Then, there was about a mile of young chaps looking little older than Martin Cake, already to take us to our cabins. In two minutes I was in my cabin. And then there was a box of lovely freesias from John, Danny, and the children. This really made me feel homeish, but was very nice of them, please let them know I much appreciated it and their thoughts. 

Later there was a telegram from Mary, a postcard fro Shilly, and a large box of chocolates (just when I was feeling really ill!) from Mrs Ronald. These I should start handing round soon to my most pleasant cabin mates. More about them later. I unsuccessfully tried to phone from the ship, but this seemed impossible. Neither have I yet met Mrs Marshall. However, I have just introduced myself to a nice middle aged couple, (NZ) who I had been friendly with on the Orcades(?) coming back - 12 years ago - very funny they should be on this ship too. More in the next letter. 

Its still all like a dream, but the dream is steadily improving. 

Love Pat.

Letter - Monday, 27th April 1964 - No.2

from Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, The Lounge, SS Northern Star 

to Captain the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England

Letter II

coninued from first.

My cabin mates are a quite elderly thin little Englishwoman called Miss Wood. Lives near San Francisco, but has been staying in England and on her way back to San Francisco via NZ. She is very petite and has white hair. I like her. Then there is a child of 15 (well, she looks like 20) of Glaswegian parents who are in a neighbouring cabin. She is very sweet and talks with a real Scottish voice - phew and the spray she puts on her  hair every morning and evening has to be smelt to be believed!! Really, I'm learning a lot! 

The other young woman is about 27, and going out to New Zealand to be wed. Also good at hair spray activities!! 

On Saturday I was feeling pretty ghastly, so did not arise from my bunk, and the amount of times the door opened and shut and those girls poured scent into their hair was unbelievable. However, as Miss Woods and I remarked to each other - there are more unpleasant smells in the world than these. 
We also have a lot of daffies and narcissi in pots around the place which I periodically kick over! So you can imagine it is all rather fun.

The first afternoon as they were going out of Southampton they gave us a most detailed fire drill - which is a good thing I'm sure. All the boats came down. On Sunday the crew had to do it. 

On Sunday I managed to get up and we went to what they called Divine Service. This was held in the Cinema lounge - a large room with a stage. This was taken by the Commander who looks in the distance like a clean shaven pirate. 

Our Glasgow cabin mate said she nearly knocked him over the other day as he walked the decks! ha! ha! So we told her who he probably was, the Boss himself.

Of course the Service was most straight forward and easy to follow - rather a relief. We only sang the Venite - 2 lessons - from hymns, no sermon. Some prayers - the creed and God save the Queen - no proper blessing - for once there cannot actually be a parson on board - quite a change!! 

My friends who I have met again are called Ingleton - and since I saw them last have been 4 times backwards and forwards to England - and have just locked up a flat in Bournemouth and come away. They do not look a day older from when I last saw them.

Last evening we went and listened to a concert, bit of a comedown actually from our Dorset music standards, but a Scotch man who played the drum did well. Also a song called "The Irish Washerman."
I hear Scottish and N.Z. accents all around me, and many of us have not become friendly yet. Just as well, ha! ha! 

I must try not to spend any money - but you should see what is in the ship's shops. Transistors too. I might get one there. 

All the best and love,

from Pat.

Letter - 27th April 1964 - No.3

from Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, The Lounge, SS Northern Star 

to Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England

Evening before Las Palmas.

Letter III

Dear Mummy,

I wonder if you could ring Mrs Ronald for me, of Frome St.Quintain - (in the Tawnton Book) and say thank you for me for the enormous box of New World chocolates she sent me. I have only a few moments to write this, as have left letter writing to a bit late. Also to thank Shilly for her postcard of good wishes and Joyce Padwick - that is if you feel in the mood though I will thank them myself in the end.

I'm beginning to settle down to ship's life now - though it was terribly sort of sudden at first. I wore the new shirt for Jimmy for supper tonight - so that it isn't new as I take it through customs. Then, the lad who sits opposite me at supper says they don't charge customs on anything. And he also advises to get a transistor from the ship's shop as you can't be diddled!!

We had a priceless "Women's House" meeting this afternoon, and were asked what societies we belonged to. One woman said she belonged to the "Gas Company," - nobody seemed to have heard of this society. Actually, we learnt all about Las Palmas - and were persuaded of all the beautiful things we could buy there. Not me - I hope to do some sketching. She says you have to haggle - which I can't!! After this its a good long step before Cape Town. I thought I might get a dressing gown for Jim in the shops - very lovely things there are.

We had a talk from a BEAUTIFUL NZ nursing sister on Sunburn and the dangers thereof. It is a PECULIAR ACCENT no doubt. Lots of other people travelling alone going to see relatives too - so I may meet more. I'm taking it easy now and soon will be changing for dinner every night and spraying my hair I expect.

Have just read a thriller - and must go to the library.

It is all enormously exciting - and flat calm.

Do hope you are all well - and also having nice weather. Not over-doing it. Everyone should get a letter from me from Cape Town. 

My cabin mates are most amusing. The two young girls are always changing either skirts, swim suits - washing, making ups or HAIR SPRAYING!! WHEW!! 

Well, so long - off to see a film now - Walk Disney, and to catch post. 

Much love from Pat.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, 

Tuesday 28th April 1964 - SS Northern Star

Arrive Las Palmas. Miller & Co, Apartado 12, Las Palmas, Canary Islands. Spent the morning sketching on the bridge. Lunch. Bought some things, sent postcards. Watched spanish dancing. Lovely sunny day. Sent post cards to Mum, Dad, Boys, Bo, Danny, Shilly, Lily, Mrs Ronald.

Wednesday 29th April 1964 - SS Northern Star

Depart Las Palmas, Canary Islands, 6pm. Had boat drill, also deck quoits, knocked out. Slept all afternoon. Played whist - quite amusing.

Wednesday, 29th April 1964

from Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, SS Northern Star, en route to Cape Town 

to Capt. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, England

Dear Ma and Pa,

Well, I thought its about time to contact you again. As it can't be posted till Friday week, I'll do a bit each day, and lets hope i will be worth reading.

Well, here I am in a super "writing room" with deep blue chairs, and deep green carpet, with nice little alcoves for each person - here and there are dotted concentrating people - a deathly hush prevails.
the whole thing really is a bit of a joke - like a huge, so far very well behaved, Butlin's camp floating down to New Zealand. 

When there are nearly 2,000 of us passengers (200 or so children) and about 500 crew to start with, so one is constantly meeting strangers. 

Tuesday last we were at the Canary Islands - but I did not go ashore - sat on top deck and tried sketching the harbour (pencil). This was a peaceful way of spending the morning,then what with getting our postcards and  a few oddments from vendors and then I took our elderly cabin mate up the deck and we took our seats, and in no time some Spanish dancers came to entertain us with a band of guitarists.
This was most picturesque - their costumes quite different from any that I had seen. Then we moved out of the harbourwhich was big. Skyscrapers everywhere, and dark dusty looking hills in the distance - peaks hidden by clouds. We were told there was a hidden old volcano (not working) there. We gathered that four of the crew deserted there, one got himself in gaol - so that was the end of him! 

We have two large  dining rooms, and the food is not at all bad. My table companions consist of two men - one from Liverpool with wife and two children on board. He, I believe, works in John Lewis's and has been in New Zealand and Aussie before. Quite a pleasant person, youngish and with a normal sense of humour. The other is a younger, sly little fellow aged about 22 I should think. Glaswegian with a broad accent. I gather he has a wife too somewhere. 

That's all rather dull really, perhaps we will get someone else - there was a very elderly gent there as well eating fish solidly on Friday night, but he was so shaken when he heard me asking for a cup of tea that he never re-appeared. Actually I discovered that he is a retired Captain who has gone to the Captain's table, wherever that is!!

The ship is air conditioned, which means that it is pleasantly cool - and very even temperature always below deck - actually its lovely, hot and sunny and about 75 degrees outside today. 

We passed Cape Verde this morning - near Dakar apparently, and saw some rocks sticking up and a distant island. There is a flat calm at the moment with a slight swell. The barometer is supposed to be falling but for no very bad reason, we have been told.

We are contnually being regimented here, there and everywher - deck quoits, this, and the other. I've been knocked out of both deck quoits and table tennis so far!

BUT for a joke, the elderly Miss Wood and I decided to go to the whist drive last night. This was most amusing - all the old ones and some very bossy New Zealanders (women) (How I can imagine them being snooty to anyone they do not take to!).

All the time I am completely surrounded by New Zealand accents - and also Scottish - but what gratis is the preponderance of north country women talking like certain B's we know. So I am sure that I'll be talking a bit like them by the time I get to Wellington. 

Everyone says how insular the are if with the Aussies - also how particular. (So far actually I do not seem to have met many Aussies at all). There are a few South Africans and people with mixed accents. Most attractive looking girl of about 30 - (really good looking type) with her little girl who was rather sick.

cont.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell

Thursday 30th April 1964 - SS Northern Star

The days are going gradually, Knocked out of table tennis. Slept in deck chairs. Wrote some more of letters. Ironed clothes. Had tea with Mrs Marshall - rather nice. They went to the films - I did not. Read "Ring of Bright Water."

Friday 1st May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Good day. Played deck tennis with a good looking blue eyed black hair Scotchman called Charlie. We won first match, but failed in second. Very hot. Had shower. Slept in afternoon.

Saturday 2nd May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Fairly hot day, but heavy rain a lot of the time. Sat inside and wrote letter to Jimmy. New book - about Simon de Montfort. After lunch watched the Crossing of the Line Ceremony. Quite funny. Listened to Elgar's Sea music. Miss Woods went to the Whist drive.

Memoranda - Write Danny, Mrs Robbins, Mrs Ronald, Na Cod P.C., David P.C., Ros, Jimmy P.C., Enit J, Shilly. Mum & Dad. Joyce Padwick. Scottie (Sydney), Mary Cake. Brinkworths. Grace and Bee. The Charltons. Frasers. Greenaways. Hodson, Mrs Johnson. Boys and Bo. Mrs Kennard. Nora Palmer. Joe Palmer. Marjorie Boultrop. Mrs Commerton. Miss Mac.

Letter continued on Saturday 2nd May

Today it is extremely hot, and humid and also wet, when I went up on deck just now. Humidity 92%  - and we cross, or are crossing the equator. There is a ceremony for the children this afternoon, but it won't be much fun if its still raining!!

Yesterday was a bit sunnier, though very hot. After breakfast at 8am (me, mind you! but the reason is a desire to improve my conduct and get up earlier - so I put myself down for early breakfast at 8 am. Lunch 12.30 and supper 6pm!) 

At 10am for about 1 hour and a quarter I played deck tennis in the competition - my partner - a huge burly looking Scotchman with black hair and blue eyes called "Charlie" was quite a good partner - we won the first set, but were knocked out by the second two who didn't care how they chucked the rubber ring over the net. 

After this a mass of soaking humanity went and had a cup of tea and then a shower. As one imbibed in a huge luxurious lounge - an orchestra  (composed of sailors) plays quite good tunes. Then, after quite a good lunch, cold ham, salad, pickled and new onions - sago pudding, bun and cheese and coffee - I went and had a "kip," the word one of our cabin mates used for a sleep! 

Four o'clock I was up again and having a cuppa with our eldest companion. We then resort to the forward lounge again - where we read and listened to very good recordings of Mozart's Sonatas.

We stayed there reading till 6p.m. I found that book which we've got, "Ring of Bright Water," and have thoroughly enjoyed it. It is very interesting reading about how he looked after all those pets - and how he fed them - and how they liked their routine to be regular. I could not help thinking of Daddy and the ducks and geese. But fancy getting live eals sent all the way from London every day for a pet otter who lived in Scotland!! 

After supper Miss Wood and I walked around the deck for some fresh air - it was dark at 7pm last night. 
Earlier in the day I had been right up to the top of the ship, where I did get a good breeze. And so the time is going on - today week we will have just left Cape Town. This we have already had pamphlets about - and the thousands of different things one can do - and things to see. 

One can pay enormous prices to do bus and taxi trips, but I hope to find someone who would like to walk. I gather there is an artist on board painting in oils. 

There is a ship's hostess, a most attractive little person, who is always ready to help - and I hope to contact her this morning.

One day we had a very good film called "The Incredible Journey" - all about two dogs and a cat who travelled 200 miles across Canada after their master. All in colour, it was quite attractive. The other film about gun shooting and Frank Sinatra I did not go to, some people said it was awful. 

So really this is a wonderful, luxurious holiday I'm taking. Our cabin mates are MIss Wood, a delightful tiny little white haired old lady who has lived in America (near San Francisco) for forty years and is travelling round the world -  a quaker. Then Pauline (Hammond? Armark?), a very pretty girl of about 27, travelling on her own to New Zealand to marry a New Zealander. She spends most nights up and comes back between 1am and 3am, and what she gets up to is nobody's business - she is very sweet, but at first had not a clue about some of the things on a ship, so we have told her. 

The next one is Elizabeth Handyman who sleeps under me - she is from Glasgow and only 15, travelling with her parents (in a different cabin) and is a very jolly hopelessly untidy girl (worse than me, if that's possible!). 

I hope to do some painting when I can procure something to carry the water about in. This really is so big a ship that one hardly knows many, and there are so many decks and deck space  - and one is allowed to go nearly everywhere.

Oh, I discovered last night that my little Glaswegian who sits opposite me in the dining room is a carpenter by trade - joiner, going he says, where the money is - and builds houses. He told me how they make that plastic that looks like wood - photograph the picture of wood on to it.

Must stop for a bit now and write to Danny I think next! (If you think this letter would amuse her, perhaps it would be worth sending on!).

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell

Sunday 3rd May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Good day. Morning service. Quiz in the evening. Quite fun. Did not win.

Letter continued following Monday night, 4th May. 

Last Saturday we had a most interesting ceremony of crossing the line - Father Neptune with very green face and his extremely fat consort with an enormous quantity of lipstick and eye shadow on. Also their attendants. There were six or eight culprits who had committed various sins who were ducked. With a band playing beside them. It rained all morning but luckily cleared up for the ceremony. The next day it was better, and has been lovely and sunny today.

We have also had the children's fancy dress competition today, and they decorated the dining-room to look like Aladdin's cave - or Christmas-come-again.

Last night we had a quiz, this was quite amusing - our group did not win!

We also had a most amusing time one evening playing whist. This I quite enjoyed - and had some real good laughs!

And so the party goes on, or so it seems. I'm sure I will get fat - as we are inclined to eat a lot and not have very much exercise. The Marks & Spencers blouse Mummy which you got me at the jumble sale is one of the most successful things I've got - so cool to wear - it will do me fine. We are supposed to change for dinner, but I'm afraid I do not

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell

Monday 4th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Not so stiff. Fine day. Knocked out of double quoits, with man with beard. Read in lounge. Drew Miss Wood in afternoon. New Zealand documentary in evening.

Tuesday 5th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Women's House 2.30pm. Woke with sore throat.Very clear day but a bit cooler than usual. Felt very tired - not enough fresh air? Played ping pong. After lunch went to sleep through Women's Hour. Opposite neighbour's mother-in-law sitting at our table. Went to a rather sexy film after supper. "The Thrill of it All." with Doris Day.

Letter continues.

Tuesday, 5th May.

Well, many congratulations on another wedding anniversary. Its a lovely sunny day here, blue skies and a bit colder, but better than that heavy weather. We are told it will get colder now as we get into the stream of cold water , coming round the Cape of Good Hope. 

We saw a New Zealand documentary film last night about the land of the pumice - and where they have reclaimed it. I'm not sure if it's where I will be or not, as it was not too clear which  island it referred to. 
We are having a women's hour discussion this afternoon about our visit to Cape Town, to give us a few tips.

I shall, I think, get the transistor from the ship's shop, as they have some good ones, and I shall be less likely to be diddled. 

I have got through (nearly) three books. "Ring of Bright Water," Simon de Montford - all about the beginning of parliament, and am now reading Hugh Foot's autobiography "A Start in Freedom." A new book out this year, it is most interesting, all about Cyprus and things like that. 

Yesterday I sat in the lounge in the afternoon and drew a pencil drawing of my little friend Miss Woods. A tug-of-war on the top deck was quite interesting this morning and funny to watch. 

I usually play tabel tennis for about an hour after breakast. 

Tomorrow night we are going to have a "Landfall Dinner," so I suppose I'll have to change for that! One day we are going to have a tour of the kitchens which will be interesting.No more news for now. 

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell

Wednseday 6th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Lovely fine day. Started with table tennis. Then sat in sun and sketched girl. After lunch played quoits with Elizabeth. Went to a very good talk on South Africa. And a good handfull(?) dinner. Rhine gold wine, Australian. Went to bed afterwards.

Letter continued, 6th May

Another lovely sunny day. After breakfast at 8.am I was off to play table tennis with a lady who sits at my table. Elderly, he is 80 - she 65, just came into money, but pretty steady looking, off to see their 36 year old son and daughter. 

Its funny some of the tales these people tell, quite often correspond to J's tales of woe - with children being kidnapped by aunts - and brought up successfully - and people marrying again, this time the right one etc etc! The man got his children, rather than his money etc etc! 

Then I sat out at the back part of the ship called the Tavern and painted a quick-do of a very good looking girl asleep. Unfortunately she spotted me and walked away.

After lunch I played quoits with Elizabeth Handyman - and then had a good sleep in the sun, and then went off and listened to a real talk on South Africa -  trying to put it over now that Africa is so keen to improve etc: pamphlets we are reading which are quite interesting, all about this WHITE predominance idea. Actually of about 60 people who came to the lecture, only about 3 of those are going to settle in South Africa. Its no good saying South Africa is popular, its not. The men (quite young) asked if it is easy to get servants and a South African woman says yes. BUT you have to keep anything valuable locked up!! So really. Meat is half the price of English meat, and furniture is much better - and another woman said doctors are much cheaper. 

We all now reading pamphlets giving out about Dr Varwood and his ideals.

Our "hostess" told us all about how the black races were just tribal people warring with each other, and if they could not settle and become farmers, they usually become servants. English people on the whole wanted to work - and they got on that way (I thought to myself - well some don't!) No more now, but every day adds interest and one gets people's ideas tumbling out. 

Must get myself rigged out for the Landfall Dinner -  this time will have to change and wear the grey stole, and more titivating as we are going to have a bottle of Rhingold wine to add a bit of festivity to it all.
Some of us are getting very dry throats probably from the air-conditioning (or do you think its washing up done badly? I must find out)

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell 

Thursday 7th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Quite a good day. Talked to Ingletons. Saw Miss Pratt, not mucl luck she thinks. Listened to music in the afternoon. Also someone playing piano. Wrote letters, and sent off. Stowaway lost. Ship turned round and went back, but he turned up, and was handed over to the authorities.

Letter continued Thursday, 7th May

A great deal of excitment in the ship today as the Captain gave out "Stowaway has not been seen since 5.am this morning, so the ship is going to turn round and see if they can find him. So we did a large circle and started going back the way we had come. Then he was found on the ship after all - so all was well.
As I was watching the keep-fit class this morning, I struck up a conversation with a little elderly Welshwoman, and in no time discovered that she is returning to the Mount Egmont area where her son has a farm. Her name is Williams - she was telling me about the NZ Schools etc etc and her son's farm.
She said there were a lot of Caldwells in Stratford. Her farm was on the opposite side of Egmont fron Stratford. Her name is Williams, and the family had only been there twelve years - but already their 11 year old grand-son did a lot of work etc on the farm.

Anyhow we parted, and with the remark that we hoped to meet again in New Zealand. 

So you see I'm getting used to meeting all these folks, and as an awful lot of people are getting off at Wellington I shall perhaps have made a lot of friends by the time I get there. 

Must stop now, and wish you a thousand hugs and all the rest of it - hope you have a wonderful supper - Love from Pat.

One man went haywire at supper last night and complained of the insolence of the stewards!! We laughed at our table, the man himself looked so dirty - Perhaps he was the stowaway.(who is now locked up quite close to us) 

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell continues.

Friday 8th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Arrive Cape Town. Four good letters from home. Man George. a Co.(S.A.) (PTC) Ltd. P.O. Box 702 Cape Town, South Africa. In morning wandered round the ship, and saw them doing boat drill. Then went ashore and walked in to town with Miss Wood. Caught bus, and went out to Wynberg and on to Constantic where we saw the wine growing area, conducted by a bus conductor. Back and went to the other port, where the mountain was. Beautiful night looking down on the town.

Letter - 8th May 1964

Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, SS Northern Star, Cape Town

- to Capt. the Rev. and Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England
Dear Ma and Pa,

Well, many thanks for your letters which I've just read. Received one from you, Pa and one from you, Ma. Thanks for sending on about the income tax - Grand to hear all your news - I hope the weather is good.
We came in here about 7.am - At least I managed to get on deck about then and the whole place was a lovely deep blue with lights twinkling everywhere on tugs and the distant mountains just showing with a crescent moon above. Then the dawn just starting. Then went round the other side and saw Table Mountain and all the Skyscrapers and things in the foreground.

Gradually it came light and the temperature seems quite warm and normal. 

Then we had breakfast and then collected your letters and changed some money into Rands and cents. 
Now I'm just waiting for Miss Woods as she is at breakfast and probably will go ashore with her, and have a look round. 

I sent off a fat letter to you yesterday - really all about nothing - and lots of postcards to everyone. Really the most interesting part was about meeting Mrs Williams whohas her farm on Mt.Egmont and about "Caldwell" being a common name in Stratford, and how she knew someone called Keith Caldwell!! etc etc. 

No more news now, but will continue when I've been somewhere else, and when there's something to report.

Continued next Morning....

Well, thank you for your other two letters, full of everything. Fancy Mrs B. thinking D. has let C. astray!! 
Yesterday, after lunch Miss Woods and I had quite an adventure. We walked off towards the terrific skyscrapery Cape Town. Caught  a bus and were taken out to where all the black people live and to Constantia where they grow the wine. We were surrounded by all the little black children coming back from school - and saw also a black man's funeral, a muslim cemetary, a chicken farm which was normal - and a very courtly bus conductor (dressed like a soldier) who acted as our guide quite without being asked. 

It was a bit obvious only a few seats being allowed for blacks downstairs. Then in the evening we went on a bus trip up part of Table Mountain and saw a wonderful array of lights stretched out below us. 
I was dead beat on arrival back, but it was worth it. Love to the dogs and Lily and Ros when you see her.
Lots of love, from Pat.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell continues.

Saturday 9th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

SS Northern Star at Cape Town - from New Zealand Maritime Record

Depart Cape Town - left midday. Went ashore for a bit and bought apples, post cards etc. Sailed at 12 mid. Very wet as we got outside the harbour. Slept all the afternoon. Went to bed early. - Memoranda - Change £10 note. Toothpaste. Paper hankies. Baggage room. See Miss Pratt (no good) Finished letters. Transistor. Money out of purser's office. (£10) Embroidery set, iron.

Sunday 10th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Felt a bit dizzy still. Went to11am service without Miss Wood. Then sat in lounge and talked to Mr Ingleton about house decorating. After lunch rested. Also after supper. Went to bed early. Wrote some letters to Mum and Daddy.

Letter - Sunday, 10th May 1964

Miss Pat Heath-Caldwell, SS Northern Star near Durban

to Capt. the Rev. and Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England

Dear all,

Listening to some real music in the lounge and the moment, after attending the morning service in the cinema (a very straight forward affair, not even a sermon!) taken by the captain. I got two books for the grandchildren at a shop in Cape Town - one, fairy tales illustrated by Arthur Rackham and the other a very good book all about the sea with magnificent coloured pictures by James Fisher (I suppose the same man who broadcasts about zoos). They will perhaps do for the children when the time comes.

We had tea in a huge shop after our expedition into the wine-growing area (I shall have to write and tell John and Danny about that), then we walked back. You can't beat the intelligence of some of the black people - the children were giggling about the "beatles" behind us. In the evening we set off in a bus to go to the mountains to see the lights - this time we went in exactly the opposite direction to miles and miles of palatial dwellings and where the whites lived. Then up a curly rather hair raising drive till we came to the top where we saw the lights spread out for miles. Our bus conductor then gave us a lecture on South Africa which I would have found more interesting if I had not been so cold. I must say they all seem quite keen on England - the peole I mean - and of course all the streets are called by English names - and there is a magnificent statue of Edward VII opposite City Hall. 

I was glad to get back to the ship that night as felt pretty tired. Next morning we sailed at midday - rather wet and this time a cloud covering the table. 

As we steamed out of the harbour all the little ships saluted us with their sirens, and we gave them some mighty big hoots on our funnel. Very cold as we left. Then I had lunch and spent most of the afternoon sleeping till supper at 6.pm. Truly a lazy life. 

I have done two attempts at sketches. Have one of the top of the ship to do, but seem to find it exhausting of course when there are so many interesting and variable faces to do, I ought to really set to and do some more. 

Also getting on with Hugh Foots Autobiography - which gives one an insight to life in the Colonial services and very up to date, "First Step in Freedom," or something like that.

 
Hope, Pop, your trip to Aspinell was a success. Shocked to hear Twinkle is still not behaving himself at times - the twins will enjoy playing with him. 

A regretable absence of dogs here of course - it will be nice to see some animals again. As the ship was leaving yesterday - streamers out, people waving hankies - music playing - in fact all the works - (made me quite sorry to leave Cape Town) a seal came up and started diving up and down (it might have been a walrus). So we have seen some. At present we are going round The Cape of Good Hope or have gone - and can see the coast line of Africa - it doesn't look more than 5 miles away. 

Miss Wood says they are keen on Methodist Union in America too. I suppose I ought to get some duty free cigarettes for Jack - much as I hate the things myself. Also there is some good kind of wine I think. Must not forget the transistor either. 

Lots of love, Pat.

Letter - Sunday, 10th May 1964

Miss P. Heath-Caldwell, Passenger, SS Northern Star to New Zealand

to Captain and Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, Dorset, England

Travelling towards Durban, South Africa, sitting on Sunny side of deck.Temp 63°F rising

Dear All,

Well, I missed sending you the one I wrote in Cape Town to thank you for the four letters I received from you. It seems absolutely centuries since we left Southampton. A whole lot of new people arrived on board at Cape Town. It was a lovely day and as we came in and for the whole of the day Table Mountain was free of its "Table Cloth" as they call it (the white cloud which covers it periodically)

+  +  +  +  +  +  + +  +  +  +  +  +  +  +

period as I had to get up and move - and elderly, much made up woman was sitting beside me and smoking and the smoke was blowing straight into my face!!

 In the morning nothing much was done as my friend thought that her friend was meeting her at Cape Town - in the end she did not. So we watched the crew do boat drill and get the boats up and down. (they are always practicing this which is, no doubt, a good thing - as people are very careless with their cigarettes) There was a slight fire, when someone dropped a cigarette into a drawer of clothes, and could not find the cigarette, so what do you think! - they left it. Thus, it was found when the dressing table was on fire. Luckily one of the passengers went and broke a glass thing and pressed the button - and all was well.

Actually, there don't seem so many smokers about. Where I did see a lot of pipe smokers, was on the dockside when the dock labourers were working (black men).

After lunch we set off on foot to walk into Cape Town. Just across the tarmac of the dockside and then on to some sandy scrub-like ground till we came straight into the largest skycraper (I mean the tallest) in Africa. All round the top the latest news was proclaimed going round and round in neon lettering. Mostly it consited of "Gen. de Gaulle gives first interview since operation, or some film star does world tour starting in Honolulu." 

Then we went on straight down the main road with great square blocks on either side of us. A statue of Joachim Van Mescham in quaker clothes looked quite small against these, and also a war memorial to the first and second war dead. Then we took our life in our hands and got on to a double decker bus. We took our life in our hands alright as it moved off while I was getting on and landed old Miss Woods nearly in the gutter. However, we laughed it off, even though she grazed her knee.

Then off we went to the native quarter quite by mistake!! Surrounded by all the little black children coming out of school, we took the advice of another helpful South Africaner and went to a place called "Constantia" (I think I sent you a postcard of this). We didn't actually see that house, but the area looked quite nice - where they grow all the wine. A most polite bus conductor dressed in khaki told us about the area. In fact a conducted tour might have been less interesting. We saw a black man's funeral - a muslim cemetary - a chicken farm and some lovely flowers in garden. Towering mountains in the background. 

Love Pat.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell continues

Monday 11th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Arrived Durban. Mary S. John T,Rennie & Sons (Pty) Ltd. P.O Box 1006, Durban,South Africa. Left early (9am) on journey into 1000 hills with Miss Wood. Had lunch in mountains (Ben's Den). Saw lots of Zulu children - asking for pennies. Back 5.30pm. Had (granny?) headache - went straight to bed.

Tuesday 12th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Leave Durban 6am. Swaying about a bit. No table tennis. Wrote to Lily. Sat and talked to Ingletons. Particular!!!! New person at the table. Slept all afternoon. Good Disney film - "Sword in the Stone." Clocks forward one hour.

Wednesday 13th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Played table tennis with Mrs Archer. Then deck quoits. Knocked out. Watched the keep fit. Sat in the sun till lunch time. After lunch, rested and the went to the Women's Hour. There we had talk of Africa and then from McKeown the All Black. McKewan (should be) Then one about Isreal. Had tea. Finished sketch (not bad). After supper - whist drive, which was peculiar!!

13th May 1964

Miss Pat Heath-Caldwell, SS Northern Star - after Durban, South Africa

To Capt. the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England

Started May 13th,

Left Durban the day before yesterday, 6.am, when we've come about 452 + 25 miles.

Dear Ma and Pa,

Many thanks for your letters from Durban - it certainly doesn't sound as if you have got summer round the corner yet. Glad to hear all the news.

Well, time is getting on here, and three weeks today I should be firmly on dry land again. The weather today is again lovely and sunny, and certainly we do seem most fortunate in this. It rocked a bit in the night, but nothing very much really. 

At Durban I went on a  long journey inland for a day starting at 9.am and getting back about 5.30.pm. It was a long day, and one does literally wobbled about and go on some hair raising drives; however, I've decided it was really worth it. 

The journey was to a place calle The Valley of a Thousand Hills. Indeed it seemed to go on for ages, but I'm told we only went in to the inland about twenty fire to thirty miles. All the hills seemed very much the same and reminded me of the miles of flat bushland in Australia, with the same kind of trees - gums amongst others. Also plenty of the bright red flowers, unfortunately I can't remember what they are called, but they're very common in Queensland. Jacaranda and Bougainvillea etc.

We went up to great heights and eventually stopped at a house in the high parts where there was the inevitable private zoo. (It seemed silly right in the middle of all that country). There are no wild animals we gathered, in any of this place - all been killed by the natives (or white people).

We watched a small tribe of Zulus doing their dance here. When I say tribe - there was its leader - a man of 65, with a lot of young girls and an older woman and two small boys (these latter did the twist magnificently I thought!). He was the father and evidently he had eight wives and thirty eight grandchildren!! I think all the girls were his daughters - but they might easily have been his wives.

Then we watched them making bread and then went inside their KRAAL. I must say they looked like a healthy looking little crowd - good teeth - good shaped heads - but it did make them look a little silly dancing for us, as I'm afraid we were rather an unreceptive audience. I mean very little enthusiasm - you know the English!!!!!!!

Then we went and had lunch and wandered round and looked at all the animals - it was fearfully hot and stuffy. 

On the way back we saw the Nagle Dam which supplies Durban. Then we eventually reached the dock again - and after supper I did an early bed that day. 

At Durban I also had a letter from my two friends in South Island (Dunedin - pretty cold I should think!). They were in the cabin when I came over last time and are school teachers. They have a bed for me and want me to come and see them, so I shall go probably later on when I've got some plans made, and when I've seen Jimmy.

I've finished my book about Freedom by Sir Hugh Foot - you certainly ought to read that one if you get the chance. "A Start in Freedom," or something. Somebody wanted it after me, and said he was such a grand man. (A Scotchman on board - who has a crippled wife). Now I have another new one out - Autobiography of the Pakenham Earl of Longford (an R.C. socialist). "Five Lives." This is about a different subject, politics - but is quite interesting to read, especially about all the Labour politicians. Also only just printed this year. 

We have the fancy dress party on Saturday - also a concert some time. The thing is there are so many people, one does not get the time to know hardly anyone individually. You know that rather odd Television actor, Peter Sellis - he often does criminal parts and queer parts. A round faced little fellow - well there is a man on board just like him to look at. However, he is very quiet looking, and I should think is a queer character, although my cabin mate - says he is a Greek! (This may be why he is so queer)

Today, I'm sitting out in the sun in the bows of the ship, and probably this afternoon I will go and get that transistor. It is a most soothing sound, the noise of the waves as we go through them - very conducive to slumber, actually I'm only just keeping awake. 

My two Australian friends who I knew before are doing a round the world trip, they live right in the middle of Bournemouth - and will be back there by August. I've not seen Miss Williams from Mount Egmont again! Just shows what a big ship this is.

We had an Australian woman at our table, but I think she was so astonished when she saw the Scotchman, that she said she would have to go somewhere else. 

Apparently people who live in Durban can have quite a lot of servants if they pay the men £5 a week - feed and clothe them and the women £3.10s a week and house them.They also have to have a night watchman walking around the house all night to make sure they are not murdured! Can't be very nice, I should not have thought.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell continues.

Thursday 14th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Stared wet for a bit. Playing ping pong. Very wet. Rested after lunch and most of the afternoon. Wrote to Lois. "Five Lives" by Frank Packenham, Earl of Longford. 1964, Hutchinson & Co. Went to most amusing film "Stitch in Time" with Norman Wisdom. Clocks put back 1 hour.

Letter continues

Continued on Saturday 15th May (?)

Rather colder today. T.62°F. but quite pleasant. I have been round the decks for some fresh air, and thought to add a bit more of this. Today is the fance dress competition. I am not going in for this, but was busy last night doing labels for the two younger girls in our cabin. 

One is going as "Chef's Suggestion, Lemo Meringue Pie," dressed up in yellow with cotton wool all over her head, and the other has got hold of a green sari and is calling herself  "Spirit of the Indian Ocean." 

I hope old Aspinall fixed you up alright the other week, Pop. Yesterday for a change I put on my pyjamas trousers, and joined the Keepfit class at 11.am. This was rather fun, and I thought, bucked on up a lot, and I shall probably do it today too. Quite a lot of the exercises seemed to be for moving one's head round and round rather like and "old cock." 

Five days now before we reach Freemantle, I must say I'll be glad to get there - this is quite a little stretch across the Indian Ocean, and at times one rather regrets having such a lot of time!! Its the amound of people about - that seems to make me feel strange.
Must now away to the library for a new book.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell continues

Friday 15th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Late for breakfast as usual. 1 mile round the prom with Miss Wood. Deck tennis with someone. Beaton. Keep fit in pyjama trousers. Rested. Slept most of afternoon. Did posters after supper for fancy dress. Had another sore throat.

Saturday 16th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Pleasant day - but cold outside. Wrote some letters. Played deck quoits and lost. Keep fit - felt exhausted. Got new book out. Slept all afternoon. Fancy Dress party at night. Frankinstein won. Elizabeth went as Chef's Suggestion. Lemon Merangue Pie. Pauline as Spirit of the Indian Ocean. Someone played a good joke on me - asked me to go to the Captains Saloon.

Letter, Saturday, 16th May 1964

From J.A.Heath-Caldwell, Rotoehu Forest, R.D.6 Te Puke, NZ

to Captain C.H. Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorset, England

Dear Pa,

Thank you for your letter. When I came here I was advised to live from day to day, and not to worry about the future. I find that at the moment I have quite enough worry day to day anyway. My physical health isn't up to much at the moment as my whole system is sluggish. I have written to the hospital to tell them about it and to ask if it mightn't be because of the largactyl drugs I'm still taking which have always made me get constipated. As it is I can't sweat without getting a sick headache and I'm sure if my system was working properly I'd at least feel fit. I very nearly returned back to the hospital after the 3rd days work - I felt so bad.

Just lately we have been high pruning with saws on the end of 16ft poles. I have not been keeping up with the others but nobody has said anything very derogatory about it.

Last Sunday I went out after deer with an 18 yr old boy who drives a grader here. He shot one stage - an 11 pointer which he practically ran into in the forest just after we had sat down for 11'ses.

There are one or two I know - but nobody talks much about anything. One young maori boy was at Tokanui and I worked in the kitchens with him at one time. The young boy who drives the grader was working on some construction job in Auckland driving some earth moving machinery only he was working 16 hours a day and he came here for a rest because he felt on the edge of a break down. Most of the men here are only temporary - oh yes - one is here on probation. They do sometimes have men who have just come out of prison too.

The weekends are worst as there is absolutely nothing to do. When I get a rifle - if I do - I shall be able to go out and shoot but that is the only thing to do. I shall also join the county library next Friday after pay day when the fortnightly bus runs in and back.

The forest itself covers about 20,000 acres, I believe, of pine trees of all ages. It was started in the 30's during the depression. It is well roaded and is divided into blocks which are allocated weekly for hunting so that only one person with a rifle will be in any one block at a time to make things safer.

I don't think I can realistically look forward to any kind of a responsible job now because, of course, I have no references and also I and nobody else knows when I shall go mad again. It does seem that any responsibility and worry does it. In any case at the present time my physical health is not in good shape, and even the job here is not pleasant. At one time I would have enjoyed it for a short time but, of course, I'm getting older too.

 
The hospital social services try to place people suitably and help them but there aren't many people with my background that come their way and I'm just one of the odd men out. Martin Langdon and company - Jack Cookson - didn't help at all because I didn't know how they could help and nor did they.
You haven't any idea what I could do either and nor have I. Everybody who employs labour wants to get their money's worth and I'm afraid with myself they could never be quite certain. In any case I know absolutely no one who could help or who feels philanthropic - not many people do feel like that, you know, its all a rat race

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell

Sunday 17th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Service at 10.30am. Then went to lounge and had some music (very poor). Did some reading with Miss Wood. Slept most of the afternoon. Walked round deck. Quiz in the evening.

Monday 18th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Good day. Did lot of letter writing in the morning. Slept all afternoon. Concert in the evening. One passenger off his head.

Letter to her parents continues

Continued Monday 18th May 

We had another quiet day, yesterday with the usual Sunday service at 10.30.am. It didn't seem at all like the usual Whit Sunday, this I suppose was to be expected.

I slept most of the afternoon and then went for a stretch round the deck before supper. I seem to sleep like a log every afternoon, much better than at night. This may be partly because every night we usually get up either half an hour, three quarters of an hour or one hour earlier than usual so that the clocks will be right by the time we get to New Zealand; or it may be because one of our cabin mates regularly spends every night up and has been in bed twice only before 12 midnight since we started the voyage. Appart from this she is quite attractive, and certainly creeps in very quietly each time she does it.
On Tuesday night we have to go to the Captain's Cocktail party - apparently he gets bored with drinking but goes on doing it!

The fancy dress went off well, the two chaps at my table dressed up as Frankinstein - one on the the other one's shoulders, and did it quite well - at least everyone was horrified. 

Tonight we have the concert - and on Thursday (at last) we reach Freemantle. There was quite a sway in the night, and when I heard a terrific bump - "Well, I thought, that's the end, we probably go down now!"
However, it must have been the steward bringing in the tray (of rather ghastly ship's tea), because what seemed like hours later I heard little Miss Wood saying, "There's you tea." As she is in the bottom bunk she has the job of waking everyone up, and this she does quite willingly every morning so far.

Diary of Miss P. Heath-Caldwell continues

Tuesday 19th May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Pleasant day. Walked on decks in the morning. Library, Cashed money 20. After lunch Women's Hour - Exhibition of things. Mr Stewart - Chief Engineer talked. Also Mrs Earle - Salvation Army officer who had been in Rhodesia 10 years. Captain's cocktail party and landfall dinner - quite fun.

Wednesday 20th May 1964 - SS Northern Star 

Good day.Got cards for Freemantle. Slept in the afternoon. Walked round deck before supper. TV afterwards - bad.

Letter continues.

Continued Wednesday May 20th.

Well, my letter will end soon, as we reach Freemantle tomorrow, and our letters have to be posted by 5pm. 

I have written to J. to find out if there's anywhere that I can stay up near him. If its the place where the hot springs are there must be somewhere, as I really don't intend to spend all my time at Jack's, although it would be a good headquarters to go and see any lawyers or anyone (if this appears necessary to be done).

We had the Captain's cocktail party last night, that is our section of it! It was held in the "Tavern," the department where the drinking gets done!! Actually rather an attractive place - panelled with wood - and I should say, real wood. I must ask the little Scot who sits at our table who is going out to be a carpenter in Wellington, because a lot of the walls in the ship are sort of plastic with the grain of the wood photographed on.

Today we had a "so called" medical inspection. Great notices given out in our cabin and over the loudspeakers about showing our forearms and our foreheads! And then to have cards given to us. I never once saw the doctor or a doctor and no one inspected us - we were just given cards. A mere formality I suppose.

I don't like admitting it, but it would have saved a great deal of time to have gone by air. 
On the other hand the transition period between one country and another is interesting and I would not have missed Africa for all the tea in China. Also, one again realises that one is one of the thousands who have relatives in New Zealand, sons or daugthers, and so on, and though one does not so much hear the tale of woe - there must be many problems only just below the surface.

Sitting in the lounge during the first part of the voyage I sat close by some very loud-spoken woman (can't remember which country she came from) and really the conversation with a few alterations could have been almost about J. and D. But one sometimes gets to a stage of hearing one's own problems aired by other people, or perhaps its my imagination at work again!

We had a most interesting woman's hour yesterday - first of all an exhibition of our work.(Well, I thought this meant, work we had actually done on board). Anyhow, it consisted of four pictures I had done, one from top of the ship, and a feeble effort at a sunset by me, and three semi-portraits. The other people's were handmade things, which someof them had made while at home.

Then the chief engineer came and talked - he was an elderly man from Glasgow. He told us all about how they make the water in the ship, (that is excellent), and how every ship had air conditioning, and once you got used to it you were alright. (You can get a cold if you come in from the heat, and do not put sufficient warm clothes on). 

Yes, Mummy, have you thought about air conditioning the Pound House?! Or perhaps the thatch does that sufficiently. All the refridgerators they have to have in the ship to keep the foods and milk and drinks at different suitable tempuratures. 

Well, bye bye for now,
Love Pat.
Love to Twinkle and Danny.

Diary of Miss Pat Heath-Caldwell continues.

Thursday 21st May 1964 - SS Northern Star - Freemantle.

Arrived a.m. Fremantle. Shaw Saville Line. P.O. Box A.13 Perth, Australia. Good day. Miss Wood went off with friends. I went by bus to Perth with another strange woman, but quite enjoyed it. Took ticket in sweep. After supper introduced Miss Wood to the Ingletons in "the Morgue." Leave Freemantle 5pm.

Friday 22nd May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Felt rather tired. Walked round decks. Rested as had headache. After lunch played quoits, table tennis and ping pong with Mrs Archer. Rested rest of day, stayed upstairs for supper. Northwet Passage is good.

Saturday 23rd May 1964 - SS Northern Star

Felt better. Went to keep fit and wrote several letters. Fire drill for crew in the afternoon. Whist drive in the evening - one woman cheated very well.

Memoranda - Purser £30. Embroidery. Air letters 68. Change money. Buy in Melbourne 6 prs stockings - Enid. Scuffs Anne Fraser. Pres; for Scottie, also Norah. Tell Jack C. about All Black aboard B. McEwan.

Letter - Saturday, 23th May 1964

Miss Pat Heath-Caldwell, on SS Northern Star - near Melbourne

 
to Captain the Rev. & Mrs Heath-Caldwell, The Pound House, Cattistock, Dorchester, UK

on S.S. "Northern Star," going towards Melbourne, crossing the Great Australian Bight.

Dear Ma and Pa, 

Thank you for your epistles arrived safely at Fremantle. Glad my letters have amused you, and hope they continue to do so - if they serve anothre useful purpose! Its the one thing I have to do, and is quite fun and a good thing to have a duty to do besides getting up in the morning and propelling oneself in and out of the dining room. 

I have now got to the stage of becoming so fond of the ship and used to the sway, that when I go ashore and have a lovely time, it takes me a whole day to rest and settle down to ship life again! No wonder sailors are so queer! (or - -- - ).

We were in Perth, Western Australia  the day before yesterday and are now crossing the Great Australian Bight  - noted for its roughness. However, this ship is so large and well balanced that we have not had it bad, and they have the 'stabilisers' out today which keeps us from rolling. 

There are pretty big rollers out, but not quite so big a the ones we had in the Mediterranean coming back on the S.S. Orcades, certainly in this ship it is amazingly balanced, and one could almost say that we have had a flat crossing.

However, I do not think that any of us will be sorry to reach Wellington. Certainly one gets used to the faces of one's fellow passengers - even if one never speaks, nor they to you. There are quite a lot of old chaps, one or two with two sticks - in fact quite a large proportion of elderly folk - and as there are lifts - they don't need to go up the stairs.

In fact, if it didn't take quite so much time I could quite easily see you two doing this trip, and what's more, enjoying it. However, the two long bits - Las Palmas to Cape Town (10 days, approx 4,000 miles) and Durban to Fremantle (another 10 days 4,000 miles) were a bit long, in spite of us being so well organised, and also well behaved. (- behavious of all is astonishingly good, especially when one thinks what goes on at home, or is it that we just don't have any newspapers - and only a sheet of news, and thus are not able to concentrate on all the bad things that happen. 

I mean we soon got over the excitement of turning the ship round and starting sailing back to England when it was suspected that the stowaway had gone overboard, also someone went off his head between Cape Town and Fremantle, and there is another woma in a bad way with excessive seasickness in the hospital.

Meanwhile, I still haven't got over the thrill it gave me stepping ashore on Australian ground once more. (I have started talking across between Dorset, Australia and New Zealand). 

It was a perfect day - like it was last time I got there - blue skies. Yesterday I felt very exhausted, so went to bed with another good book I've got out of the library - "North West Passage," by Kenneth Roberts - this is an adventure story which we've got, and I'd never read it before - and also missed out luckily on a rather putrid film - American of course, which they had in the cinema.

Today, I have several letters I must reply to as I've heard from Norah Palmer, who can't get down to meet me. BUT Joe (now aged between 16 and 19 I imagine) is going to entertain me in Sydney - he works as a clerk in a firm there and will be able to see the ship coming in! So I think I shall do it properly and ask him to dinner here on the first night and take him round the ship! 

Also, had a letter from another Sydneyite, one of my cabin mates coming back from there last time, another Mrs Scott whose sister I met in Edinburgh - we have corresponded ever since and she is awfully nice. 

So I shall probably spend a day with her, and if I hear from the Barthropps, perhaps an hour or two or more or a day with them - who knows. 

We spend two days and a half at Sydney - arriving Thursday morning and leaving Saturday morning. Then I've heard from Mrs Ronald's daughter, whom I'm taking the plate to, and she also will see the ship come in, and will, she says, have a reception committee of herself, and three children to come on board to meet me, and that her home is at my disposal while I'm in Melbourne. 

So one really feels that I'm in for a really BUSY time next week, and then in no time it will be the weekend before Wellington and the three cabin mates and I will be queuing up to get our suitcases packed ready to go ashore for good!

Today, I hope to tackle the keep fit class again, bit I found myself very stiff, but all the better for two classes I did last week. 

Back to impressions of Fremantle last Thursday. On arriving at the quayside - we saw a large glass covered palace with "Welcome to Western Australia" on it. This was a change from last time when there was nothing much - just a rough looking wharfside. Evidently this was built for the Olympics in 1960. 
Talk about the Olympics - has the world gone "Sports mad."? My Liverpudlian friend (at table) and I laugh about it. Especially the South Africans - every kind of male stacks about in a blazer with a crest on it - like an overgrown school boy. Most of the time all their play is most unsportsmanlike too and as for last week's whist drive - really - the old women particularly were so fussy. 

I'm rather wondering if I will go in for it tonight or not!! Apparently one South African is driving his wife nearly mad when the English cricket team beat his, twice running, by one run!! 

I took the usual bus trip we did before and had some lovely views of the huge Swan River with Perth stretched out before us, and all the at