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Ellis - Meharg
a collection of letters, photos,
drawings etc.
Thomas Robinson Meharg (Robin)
Mary Dora Ellis
a leather zip folder inside a small leather briefcase holding all the
letters
calendar is 1942
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2
1) Easter 1934 Larne Grammar School. Report. Name: Robinson Meharg
Form 3° - James MacQuillan, M.A., Headmaster
2) June 1936 Larne Grammar School. Report Name: Thomas Meharg Form V°
- James MacQuillan, M.A., Headmaster
letters
from Robin to Dora
    
24/12/41 At Home. My dear Dora, When I was about to address
your card I couldn't resist enclosing a note to tell you how much I would
have liked that we could have been together for Christmas although I realise
it would not be possible this year and also how much I am looking forward to
that "best Christmas." I will not attempt to write a letter as, like
yourself, I suppose, I have been detailed to do all sorts of jobs about the
house. (drying dishes etc!). I needn't tell you that you will always
be in my thoughts until I see you again, that I'm as crazy as ever about you
and that I miss you already. I'm afraid the card is not very exciting but
the thought behind it is as true as I can make it. I suppose our Christmas
will be rather quiet but as I said before I hope it will be the best up to
the present. Best wishes to all and spare your mum just a little. Very much
more than ever, Yours Robin. See you Friday morning. Christmas Card -
With all my love, now and always, Robin x Xmas 1941 To Dora, with all
my love, Xmas 1941. Robin.
1942
            
Sunday 8/2/42 At No 19. to Miss Dora Ellis, Alexandra, Lansdowne Crescent,
Portrush, Co. Antrim - Dora Darling, I wonder what you are doing just now. I
have been trying to imagine all day what you would be doing at different
times and I have found myself thinking about you a lot. I have just come
back from Church and have settled down to a lovely red fire - ideal for
toasting, by the way. Mother is reading and although she hasn't asked - yet
- I think she knows I'm writing to you. Yesterday I travelled up with
Richard and Colburn/Colleen? and they cracked most of the way. I must say
when Richard got started on the Glasgow Exhibition, motoring holidays he had
had and one thing and another he was quite interesting and the time went in
now too badly. The train was late and didn't get in until about twenty past
three and I didn't have much time to spare in getting (with Colburn
incidentally) the 3-35 home. I got in about five minutes to five. Richard,
by the way, met Maureen in the Railway Bar and after that I don't quite know
what they were up to. I know of course you won't pin this little bit of
gossip up on the notice board. When I got home Joe's mother was in and must
have told Joe I was in town tonight as he came down to see me shortly after
tea. We had a bit of crack, our style being slightly cramped (or should I
say my style) by mother's presence. It appears that Joe is still
going around with Miss Megaw, the teacher in Regent House (I wonder what the
pupils would say) and according to him, is doing a pretty strong line. He
says he has been seeing her every night and is now 13 stone 2 pounds. He
puts one fact down as relating to the other so I must get myself weighed and
see whether his theory is sound. He didn't say though whether the fact that
he is 13st. 2 lbs. makes his see her every night or whether seeing her every
night makes him 13st. 2lbs. He seems to be quite serious about her
though and was telling mother that he makes his way to the bathroom every
morning with great stateliness, humming the Wedding march. Can't you imagine
him? he's a terrific laugh. Still one never knows and I think we both agreed
that a school teacher would be a likely type for him. Miss Megaw's father
incidentally, is a friend of Norman McGreggor & it seems that when McG. was
preaching that Sunday in Portstewart he had dinner at Mr. Megaws who lived
there in Prospect Road. Miss Megaw (I think Dorothy is her Christian name)
asked him whether he knew a Mr. (?) Meharg in Education and was rather
flustered when Norman told her to the effect that I was in his office and
asked her whether she knew me. She said 'no' but she had heard about me from
my cousin whom she knew. Joe didn't know whether the conversation ended at
that but it certainly is a small world, don't you think! Joe was saying that
he has been asked down to Portstewart and if he doesn't get before the
summer he will in all probability spend some time there during the holidays
- so we should be seeing them sometime and get a few games of tennis
together. I'm sure you'd like that if it comes off. I didn't get up this
morning until about twelve and it was marvellous, darling. I was pretty
tired last night after the journey & mother just wouldn't hear of me getting
up to make the breakfast; whether it was the dear of my cooking or whether
it was just that she hasn't had anyone to spoil for a long time. Needless to
say I didn't have a row with her about it. I should have told you that I
took her to the pictures on Saturday night (did you go?) as Joe went away
early as he had promised to call for his sister and leave her home. The
picture was 'Virginia' with Madeline Carroll and Fred McMurray and it was
quite good (in technicolour). We were slightly late and mother just got a
seat but I had to sit on the steps so I wasn't altogether comfortable and I
didn't even have anyone's hand to hold to make up for it. I did wish you
could have been there, darling, it was so strange being at a picture without
you and I know you wouldn't have minded sitting on a step. I did miss you.
To come back to today I had dinner just about the time we would have had it
in the digs and I was thinking hard about you - I hope you were about me and
that it didn't take away anything from the roast lamb, brussels sprouts and
mashed potatoes (or am I wrong?). Mother and I went up to Joes this
afternoon but we didn't go any further as it was coldish and raining
slightly. Joe wasn't long up and we couldn't get talking much. Mother's cold
has disappeared and she is in quite good form now. I gave her your best
regards for which she asked me to thank you and convey hers to you. She
asked me about my week-end & I told her all about the chips, porridge
breakfasts-in-bed etc. - everything except the ago of the sausages, about
which we couldn't quite make up our own minds. I think she gathered that the
crack was good but thought I shouldn't have imposed for so long on you when
your mother was ill. Still I wasn't too much of a trouble was I dear? Well
what have you been doing with yourself? Did you or do you feel stiff after
your ride on Saturday, giving yourself a good excuse for lying in your 'wee
bed' (Yes mummy!) on Sunday. I hope you have missed me a little, darling,
because I have missed you quite a bit. I do hope you can get a bicycle as we
could have such grand fun. I will see what I can do tomorrow and Tuesday but
we can't bank on that so much. I saw Jack Blair today (you remember the chap
you met in the city that Saty.) and he was telling me that his sister is
going over to take up a job for a time in England & then return to Short &
Harlands. I knew she had a bicycle and immediately asked him whether she
would think of selling it as I was looking out for one for you. He promised
to ask her and also to keep his eyes and ears open in case something might
turn up. He is coming down to see me tomorrow night sometime so he may have
some news. I think I should bring up my bicycle on Wednesday as we might be
able to have a spin if you could borrow one for a Saturday afternoon say.
Well, Dora, it is getting on to supper and bed time and mother has just
asked me whether this is the same letter - I must have been writing for
quite a while although I wasn't conscious of it. I do love writing to you
and I am looking forward to your letter. It is nice to think that maybe you
are writing to me at the same time and that we are both thinking about each
other. I do love you an awful lot, dear, and certainly wouldn't like to be
too long away from Portrush. Wednesday it quite long enough away - too long
in fact. Still it will be fun seeing each other again then and exchanging
crack. Tyrone House tomorrow and Tuesday and Portrush on Wednesday. I don't
quite know how I would like it if it were Tyrone House every day again. I
owe a lot to Portrush and I think we both do. Without it we would probably
find ourselves standing in the corridor of Tyrone House tomorrow morning
making light conversation with our eye on anyone who might come along, and
make us embarrassed and each longing to know more about the other not
knowing quite how to go about it. I'm glad it's not like that - I always did
want you to know how much I thought about you. I shall revisit the spot
where we used to meet. Well dear, I suppose you are sort of tired reading if
you haven't given up long ago. I feel I could write miles and miles - as
much as I love you but it might not all make sense. (Does this?). Please
think about me until Wed. at 12. when I won't loose any time seeing you.
With lots & lots of love, Robin. x x x x P.S. I wish I could kiss you
goodnight - I will in spirit anyway and make it good to you on Wed. I think
I will post this tonight and address it to the 'digs' as you might get it
tomorrow evening. R. x x x P.P.S. (I just can't stop) - I hope you
don't sleep in, in the morning but I suppose Jane will see to that. R. x
x x
      
 
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1)
8th February 1942 Alexandra, Sunday. My dear Robin, I have just
finished writing to Mummy. I thought it might give me practice if I wrote to
her first, but somehow there doesn't appear to be any improvement. Will I
give you a general survey of my activities of yesterday and to-day?
Yesterday morning Ena asked me would I go cycling with her if she provided a
bicycle, you will remember that I was so excited at the idea that I could
hardly say good bye to you before you went for your train. Well, the
bicycle that Eva borrowed for me possessed neither brakes nor bell - it
belonged to Phyllis Weir. We set off to Coleraine, Ena, Helen Orr, Mrs.
Jones and Clare, and myself. I was very nervous and every time I saw a dog I
nearly fell off in my excitement in case it decided to cross the road in
front of me. It was a stiff push up that long hill in fact I had to get off
and walk a little of it. After that, however, we sailed along in grand style
and arrived in Coleraine without any mishap. Betty Wilson and Dorothy
Francis were waiting for us, having come by bus, and we all went to The Cake
Shop for tea. When we had finished and asked for the bill we looked in fear
& trembling to see if we had enough money to cover the amount. I could
imagine us spending the rest of Saturday evening washing and drying dishes
to pay for our afternoon tea. However, we just about managed to pay and we
set off for home. We arrived home quite safely, but when I dismounted my
knees seemed a little shaky, and even yet when I sit down I like to choose a
chair with a soft cushion. I'm afraid I will bore you with so much detail,
but I was definitely thrilled about my ride and I want a bicycle more than
ever. By the way, you ought to bring yours back with you. After tea -
boiled eggs - I sat and knitted for while. About 8.15 p.m. I went up to my
room to do a little sewing, but Eva called and insisted that I should go to
the pictures with her. She said she was sure I was lonely without you - I
think maybe she had got something there. Marguerite Thompson, Dorothy
Francis, and Bernie Rocks were in the party and we went to see Shirley
Temple in The Old Picture House. Robin, it was the worst show I have ever
been to, we all sat and yawned. I very nearly went to sleep. The Three
Stooges were on in something ridiculous, and we were held spellbound by
another instalment of the thrilling serial, "The Skyraiders!!" A Colonel, or
Commander, or something, of the Home Guard gave an appeal for recruits for
the Ulster Home Guard. By the way, is it true that Mr. Brownell sent for all
the young chaps at the office and appealed to them to join the Home Guard?
you didn't tell me about it, dear. Well, on the whole, I enjoyed Saturday
fairly well, and didn't miss you too badly. But believe me, darling I have
made up for it since. This morning I came down to breakfast at about 9.30
a.m., after which I went straight back to bed. I arrived down again about
12.0 o'clock and read from that until lunch. I will draw a curtain over this
afternoon, but believe me Robin, if your shoulder & a clean handkerchief had
been available I would have used both of them. I missed you so much that I
had to get a hot water bottle and go to bed. However, here I sit, listening
to Miss Lillian & Scottie making small talk. Miss Lillian is now trying to
include me, but she is not meeting with much success. I'm afraid that is the
end of my exciting experiences and I am sure you are not sorry. Are you, at
this moment, writing to me, it is about 7.30. Probably by this time you are
so weak from lack of food that your fingers can scarcely hold a pen. I hope
your mother's cold is better, be sure and remember me to her and give her my
love - Just some of it please. Are you looking forward to seeing Tyrone
House tomorrow. Perhaps if I had said Ormeau Avenue, I might have been
nearer the truth. Darling, don't work too hard, but Darling, be sure you get
everything finished up by Tuesday evening. I will be watching out for you on
Wednesday morning. I'm afraid I'm just rambling on, but oh, I do wish you
were here to talk to me - to read to me ...... I really will finish
now. I'm afraid this letter isn't very bright but then I don't feel exactly
cheerful myself - please forgive me, dear. I'm not little, I'm not Topsy,
but I'm yours. Dora xxxx
2) 8/11/42 Sunday, The Digs. My dearest little Topsy, I could fill this
writing pad with all the things I could tell you and all the thoughts I
think about you but I am sure you must know most of them by now. I could be
flippant about writing to you when you are only a yard or so away from me
but I won't. I have told you so often that I am as crazy about you now as
the first time I told you so, that I am afraid you think sometimes that I
say it lightly. I may do sometimes but believe me it is true darling and I
am terribly happy with you. I really mean that and I want you to be
completely happy and content with me. If you think you are and always (or
mostly always) will be. I have in mind to give you an ordinary present for
Christmas and possibly If I can at all manage it a very extraordinary
present for the New Year. If however you think we might wait it is O.K. by
me but I don't see why I shouldn't give you an extraordinary present as soon
as the New Year. From a person who thinks the world of you & that you are
the best pal he ever had.
            
11th December 1942 Postmark Portrush to Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn, Co. Antrim - Still the Digs (same digs!) Thursday - My dear wee
Dora, Time is certainly marching on isn't it? - but not quickly enough.
Darling I do wish you were coming back with me this week end instead of next
weekend because it is awful being up here without you. Do you realise how
many things we do together? I certainly do when you are not here and it
doesn't seem right that I should have nobody to knock in the morning, go to
work with etc. etc. etc. Darling I do feel it terribly at the table. I seem
kind of lost in a strange land and the whole place seems different. It is a
peculiar feeling and difficult to explain but I suppose to put it mildly - I
miss you dear. I got another letter from you this afternoon and if I hadn't
I believe I would have told the messenger there must be some mistake, - that
I just must have a letter. Please don't apologise for your letter writing,
sweetheart, because if you knew how much I look forward to getting it & how
much I enjoy reading it you would realise that I think your letters are the
best in the world. They are to me anyway and don't you say they aren't. Well
dear, I haven't an awful lot of news; as you know nothing really happens now
to my humble self. I have a feeling things might improve though not tomorrow
but the next day (sounds better that Saturday eh?) I didn't get up any too
early today either but I had plenty of time at the expense of my neck. I
must remember my ears before Saturday as I might get into trouble if the
commanding officer took it into her head to carry out an inspection. I had
two sausages for breakfast which were a little high as only sausages can be
and I left one and a wee bit of the other one severely (?) alone.
Even with the bit I did eat I felt a wee bit off colour but I am quite O.K.
now. I have a great time keeping myself in check these days - saying Dora
would tell me not to eat that etc. Of course I always do what lil' Topsy
tells me (don't I dear?). It was raining heavens hard just after we got into
the office but strange to relate it cleared off for dinner & tea time. The
morning was just as usual - uneventful - and I had a few cases and a few
letters to get through. The girls didn't go down to the Exam Room because of
the very heavy rain. When coming for my dinner I noticed that the White
House had some fluffy (or was it cuddly) toys and I wished you had been up
and about Portrush because they looked quite nice. I think I might pluck up
courage before Saty. and price one or two of them - or maybe I'll wait and
see what you think dear. I am not sure that they would be available by the
time your extended vacation (xcuse pl) is up but I could take a note of what
they have & we could put our heads together on Saturday (or if they are
together all the time we could talk about toys for five minutes couldn't
we?) Believe it or not dear, but we had an apple rolly polly for sweet for
dinner. It was really surprising and mind you it didn't taste half bad.
There is a s??y somewhere if a fellow could just think it out. I got a
parcel of washing & a note from mum at dinner time. She is quite well and of
course was asking about you & what we bought at the weekend. She doesn't
know of course that you are not back at work but I am writing either tonight
after this or tomorrow in the office She sends her love and hopes you found
all your people in Lisburn well. She said she was going to town today. I had
a look at the bicycles yesterday evening and I'm telling you they could do
with a clean - yours is quite grubby - and mine is rusting a little bit. I
chained them together when I was at it and I think the best thing I can do
is to hurry back after dinner tomorrow if possible and give them a wee rub
before two o'clock. I think I could possibly manage ten minutes at them
which would always be something, otherwise I don't know when they will be
done. Yours does not seem to be rusty but they would both need to be well
vaselined to be safe. I was talking to Billy Jones about them and he said he
could probably put them up in his coal house for the winter. It might not be
a bad idea but on the other hand I don't like to impose too much. However we
will see dear. The climate here is terribly hard on them. I could keep mine
at home for donkey's years and it wouldn't have got rusted as much as it
would here in a week. I bought myself an electric light bulb (40 watt)
coming home this evening and I am telling you it makes a big difference. It
cost me 2/= but I think it will repay itself as the blooming light I had in
my room was getting me down. I couldn't even see to part my hair in the
morning (just listen to me giving off - dear help me). Alan Hawthorne was
talking to Jimmie today in the office and he said that when everything was
taken into consideration the Whist Drive would realise about £20. I think
that is pretty wonderful. It seemed to go off pretty well & they had a full
house. Maudie Adams got the first ladies prize and Arthur Howard got some
other prize. The 10/= ballots went to Berta Murdock (one up for the typing
room - a party eh?) and Deacon of Technical Branch. I believe Mrs. Cecil
Williams distributed the prizes so she must have made a wonderful recovery.
Colburn was in for tea tonight after his sojourn in Belfast - I expect he
enjoyed the company (on maybe that wasn't quite nice of me). It was salmon
for tea but not for me. Oh no! I had some of that marvellous dried scrambled
egg of which I left half (does that meet with Topsy's approval?) I was at
the Home Guard tonight. Who all were there? Well there was Jimmy, Arthur,
Leslie McCandless & yours truly. Eddie Seymour was on sick leave. Murphy
dropped in and gave us a few exercises & of course we showed him a thing or
two (says me!). Leslie McCandless & I came round together and we dropped
into the Picture House cafe and had a little cup of tea, a few bits of
toast, and a scone. (no chips - honest darling). I was in the digs about ten
o'clock and warmed my wee nose at the fire & then proceeded to write to my
own wee Topsy. I seem to have written for hours sweetheart but I have
enjoyed talking to you immensely and I do hope you weren't too bored with
all the I's. I love to write to you dear because nothing can possibly
interrupt my thoughts to you & about you when I get going. I do wish you
were back darling but it isn't so bad with tomorrow being Friday & your
letter in the afternoon. I think I will drop you a note tomorrow in the
office if you would get it before I arrive on Saty. just to let you know
what time to expect me but if something happens to stop me please forgive &
I will likely catch the 12.40 anyway. With lots & lots of love from Robin x
x x x x x P.S. Carmel got your address & will write direct (avoiding
the censor eh?) I will kiss you goodnight now sweetheart & send you all my
love. Yours Robin x x
       
   
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1) 14/12/42 - 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Monday - Robin darling, I suppose
you are back again in good old Portrush. Very soon, dear, you will have
forgotten that you were away for a none too pleasant weekend. Perhaps that
is putting it rather strongly but I think we could call it very
unsatisfactory at least. I missed you all day, my dear, and yet I have the
feeling that you haven't really been here for the weekend but that it is
still before us. That is the best way to think about it, let us forget how
much the last weekend let us down and let's look forward to next Saturday.
I'm sitting up in the drawing room where I have lit the fire (now no
"bitter" cracks) in expectation of little Elsie's arrival. She didn't let me
know if she were coming all right but I'm sure she would have let me know if
she had other (& better) fish to fry this evening. I do wish you could be
with me, because it is such a long time since I have seen her that there are
sure to be some awkward pauses. How will I answer her questions about when
we are going to get engaged and what did I buy you for Christmas? Or maybe
she will be rather "stand-offish" and be the prim & proper young lady as she
can be to perfection. I must remember to keep me feet neatly crossed just
above the ankles and not forget to put all my "g's" to my "ings"
Darling, am I being a horrible little cat? This morning, as soon as you had
gone, I got myself another how water bottle, and, as Daddy would say, slid
away off to bed. It was wonderful to lie there in such comfort pretending
that - - - - - - I leave the rest to your imagination - is it as good as
mine? I slept for a short while and dreamed of Jeff. It was all very vague,
but I seem to remember that we were acting the fool together and were afraid
that you would find us!! I managed to struggle downstairs in time for dinner
and ever since that I have been rushed off my feet. When we had tidied up
the dinner dishes (we missed you for drying, dear) we started in and made
two small sultana cakes for Christmas. We must both be very much out of
practice as we spent ages doing those two miserable little cakes. When the
cakes were finished I went upstairs to do some big game hunting in your room
but with absolutely no success. Perhaps you might be more successful in
Portrush!! By the way, thank you for the half-crown but you know I owe it to
you and far more besides. You see we never settled up about our purchases on
"Monday was a week". not only did you pay for my shopping but you also paid
for our lunches. That is really going too far. After I had given up the
chase. I washed my dirty face (& neck & ears) and arrayed myself in my gray
frock to which I added your red tie. I forgot to tell you that before I
changed I lit the fire in the drawing room and dusted the place which took
me hours. I never saw so much junk packed into one small room. I told my
mother that if & when I was going to get married I needn't worry about
furniture as she had enough stuff to furnish half a dozen houses. If ever I
have a home of my own, dear, I will not have it cluttered up with dozens of
little ornaments and aspidistras (?) all spread out on dozens of little
tables - I think they are called "occasional tables". It makes me shudder to
think about them, but my mother tells me that all this things make a room
look as if it were lived in and not as though it were there for ornament.
When I had myself & the drawing room ready for my visitor, I dashed about
downstairs and put the pan on. I'm sure you would have enjoyed the result of
my efforts, dear. We had bacon, spam, potato, pancake, and last but now
least, dried eggs which I am afraid tasted pretty much the same as ever.
Those things should be used for baking purposes and nothing else. Well dear,
when I had finished my tea I dashed upstairs with a pen & writing paper and
sat down to send a wee note to my wee Hargie. But now, dear, I'm afraid I'll
have to stop now and dash up to the pillar box with this so that you will
get it tomorrow. I have never stopped dashing all afternoon. Please goodness
I'll have a lazy time tomorrow to make up for all this. Now darling, be sure
you write to me every day, telling me every little detail. Don't work too
hard dear, but go to the pictures and go for walks these lovely moonlight
nights. I wish we could walk to the White Rocks together, dear. Remember the
fun we had last year. Well dear, I'll stop now, but will write again
tomorrow. All my love Dora x x x x x x P.S.1. Mummy sends her love.
P.S.2. Please thank Miss H. & Carmel for their letters for me. x x x x x
Dora OVER P.S. 3. I have just heard that Jack (captain) Barclay
- Dodo's brother, is home on Embarkation Leave. P.S. 4. Please don't
count all the "dears" in this screed. But I mean them all, dear. Dora x x
2)
15/12/42 Please excuse this note dear, it is very scrappy. Love &
huggles Dora x x x x - 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn - Tuesday 15th
December. My dear Robin, I'm afraid this will be a very short note as
I have spent the whole day resting!! Thank you, dear for your note, it was a
nice surprise. Thank Ena for me for her letter. I just can't take it in that
Miss H. is really leaving us. I thought she would go on talking of love and
romance until the end of her days. Confidential Ellie (Miss Coard) will
probably step into Miss Howie's shoes - dear help her. Robin, we never
discussed the question of Christmas Leave and I think I should let the girls
know about mine as they will want to make their plans. Well dear, as I have
been at home on a fortnight's sick leave, I don't really think I should take
any leave around Christmas. So far as I know I have 2½ days left. I thought
I could take a half day sometime to do my bicycle and then I could use the
other two days for weekends after Christmas. However, dear, this is just my
own idea and maybe you have other plans. Would you like to take leave just
at Christmas? I'm sure you would, but you see how I am placed. I'll leave it
with you dear. If you don't want me to take any leave just at Christmas,
maybe you would tell Eva. (Don't put it just like that, please) But if you
would rather I did take a day or two after Christmas write and let me know
about it and then I could drop Eva or Ena a wee note myself. I know this all
sounds very much involved but I know how good you are at working out
puzzles. Mummy was up shopping in Lisburn this afternoon and she called in
Patterson's about the Pyrex Ware. He (I don't know who "he" is) said he
would open it up on Thursday morning so mummy will go and see what he has.
Jack Barclay called this afternoon to say goodbye to us. When he came in he
had quite an accent but after a while it slipped a little. He looked very
well and seemed to be in very good form. He is to call again later as Mummy
& Daddy were out. Fortunately Percy arrived home so I hadn't to entertain
him alone. Little Elsie called last night. She arrived just after eight
o'clock and didn't leave until midnight. As Daddy was in bed and Percy was
out I had to leave her home and come back all by myself and was it dark!!
She was in very good form and we talked & talked, but for the life of me I
can't think now what we talked about. She is to call again sometime of
Sunday, so you will get a chance of hearing the news first hand. Darling I
just can't think of anything else to write except that I'm missing you more
& more every day. Be sure & write me a nice long letter every day. All my
love - Dora x x x x x
            
1942 - Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim The
Digs, Monday 11 p.m. - My dear little Dora, A very good morning to you
sweetheart. It is morning isn't it. Unfortunately it is night with me and I
have nobody to tuck me in - I am just a little bit tired and sleepy dear but
I suppose you are a little bit sleepy yourself even thought it is morning.
You don't know how lucky you are tucked up in your little bed until dinner
time every day - not quite every day though and I do hope that all the
things you did for me at the weekend such as getting up early to see me off
& bringing up my breakfast on Sunday morning didn't undo all the good your
rest is doing you. It won't though darling, will it? Well dear, way
back this morning (Monday morning) I kissed a very nice little girl
'Cheerio' about 8-30 and I won't really kiss that nice little girl (she's a
dear, you must let me introduce you sometime) until next Saturday afternoon
- just think of it - next, sorry THIS! Saturday
afternoon. I will write to her every day though and she knows I will be
thinking about her every minute (some of the seconds at least) and she also
knows I love her an awful awful lot. After leaving this little girl about
(wasn't it awful I had to leave her) I walked up to the bus stop and just as
I got up a bus drew up slightly past the stop & I hadn't a second to wait.
(Incidentally I was swisked off before Mabel I suppose was out to the gate)
Mabel is the little girl's sister. When I got up to town it was about five
to nine so I decided to walk to the station to keep me from having to hang
around that wretched place for about half an hour. I was in good time even
with walking, darling, so don't get thinking that I missed the train or
something like that. I wish I had in a way and that the one I missed was the
only one down today. I didn't travel down with anyone I knew and had the
carriage to myself for a wee bit of the way some people got in about
Ballymena & went to Coleraine. I had a newspaper and nobody I knew to talk
to me so I was not too badly off. I would have liked that little girl I was
telling you about to talk to and I promise I wouldn't have read the paper if
she had been there unless she had asked me to read to her (or talk then or
--- remember?) Well dear the journey went in. There were quite a few
Ministry people on the train including Miss Howe & I think Miss Morris. What
do you think of Miss Howe? Whom do you think you will get as supervisor?
There will be some commotion in the room when she goes and I am sure she
won't be altogether happy to leave. Tell me what you think of it all. I
think it is all very hush hush in the office but it will leak some of these
days like everything else that isn't wanted to leak. I didn't seem to do an
awful lot in the office today. I cleaned up a few things - you know how it
is on the half day when you come in from the train. Jimmie was asking for
you and I thanked Miss Howe & Carmel for you for their notes. Jimmie was
telling me that Cissie Gilmartin was up in the Branch for a few minutes when
I was down in the Exam Room (I was down for a very little while) and she is
still moaning her head off about the promotions but I don't remember exactly
what passed but Jimmie didn't let her off with it. What I couldn't do to
that woman! I was thinking about you all afternoon darling and I thought I
would just drop my little girl a line because it isn't fair that she should
have to wait for a letter until Wednesday. The day passed quietly
enough in the office and I went round to post your letter in the P.O. and on
my way round to the digs I bought the writing pad - half of which I will
practically send to you tonight - the pages are kind of thick aren't they.
For tea we had a piece of chicken and a slice of that stuff that looks like
red sawdust trimmed with a white ring and with a little tongue through it. I
can't tell you what it tastes like - no not because I can't explain or that
the explanation wouldn't give you an appetite for your breakfast which must
be cold by now, (is it?) but because I carefully and firmly rolled the thing
to one side of my plate and avoided it. After tea I washed myself a bit (I
had shaved at dinner time because Topsy said I must) and took myself off to
the Home Guard. Who all were there? - not again darling - Well there was
Arthur, Les, wee me and, later on, Murphy. Jimmie was being roped in by the
Missus to go to the pictures or something as they would have visitors
tomorrow night. Eddie is on sick leave like my little girl (sorry dirl)
Well Murphy conducted the class and kept us on our toes until about ten to
nine. By the time we had the sets dismantled it was 9 o'clock all out.
Arthur & Les & I came round together and Arthur asked me if I had anything
to do & would I consider going to the pictures with him. I thought it was
too late but he trailed me up to the Majestic and asked if the big picture
had started. Well it hadn't and we had 1/6 d worth each. It was called
"Million Dollar Baby" & Priscilla Lane & Ronald Regan (Reagan) & somebody
else (Jeffrey Lynn) were in it. It wasn't too bad but nothing outstanding
and I suppose I could have been doing with coming home and writing to my wee
girl & getting to bed earlier - but I'm not doing too badly, am I dearest? I
don't think I could ever enjoy a picture half as well when you aren't with
me as when you are with me. You have no idea how much of a difference it
makes. We both paid for ourselves and I had 1/6½ after I had bought the
paper & this pad. Now I have a halfpenny & I am quite happy about it because
if I had change I would spend it. That reminds me that I think I left the
2/6 you put in my bag on the dressing table. Did you get it? I pulled it out
with my face cloth and I quite forgot about it afterwards. I think I left it
there and I hope you found it O.K. You can keep it towards a little
celebration when you get back darling. And dear, when you are writing on
Wed. let me know what leave if any you intend taking at Christmas as I would
like to see about mine darling. I am sure there are other things I ought to
have told you but I will be writing again tomorrow and I am getting sleepier
& sleepier. Kiss me goodnight darling with a big hug & I give you all my
love & kisses. Yours, Robin x x x x x x x P.S. 'Scuse scribble x x x
R. P.P.S. x x x
       
16/12/42 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn Wednesday 16th - My dear Robin,
Thank you very much for the nice long letter which arrived this morning just
as soon as I had finished my breakfast. It was very good of you to write
such a long letter when you got back after the Home Guard and then the
pictures with Arthur. By the way, I hope you didn't make any mistake and try
to tuck Arthur's hand inside your arm. I still can't quite believe that Miss
Howe is going to leave us. The typing room will soon be quite dead. It is
bad enough as it is, but I don't know what it will be like without Miss Howe
to give us a laugh. And tell me, dear, how are we going to keep up to date
with all the gossip of the Ministry? Yes, dear, I got the half-crown all
right although Percy was inclined to think that it had dropped out of his
pockets. But I am rather worried about your financial position, dear. You
might find yourself in some very awkward spots with just a halfpenny in your
pocket. Now if it were a penny I wouldn't worry nearly as much - think of all the things you could do with a penny! As usual, I spent a very lazy
morning not coming downstairs until just before dinner. After dinner I lit
the fire in the sitting room, washed up the dinner dishes and then proceeded
to scrub my waterproof. It was quite a job and I'm afraid it isn't very much
better. I see it is wearing thin in one or two places so I'm afraid I'll
have to buy a new one for next winter, or should I have said summer? I
simply can't imagine anyone spending winter or summer in Portrush without a
good heavy mac. I'm sitting in the kitchen writing this and the time is
about 4.30. Mrs. Jones is here to-day doing the cleaning and Mummy is
entertaining a Mrs. Barker whom I have never met, so I thought this was an
excellent opportunity to write to me wee Robin. Perhaps it wasn't such a
grand chance to wrote to you dear for though it was 4.30 when I wrote the
last (previous) paragraph, it is now 7.5. I had to stop writing and start in
to make a few tomato sandwiches and generally make myself useful. When the
afternoon tea was ready I thought I could continue with my letter but Mummy
evidently thought differently. I ended up sitting with a cup of tea balanced
in one hand and a sandwich held daintily (!) in the other, making polite
conversation. I'm afraid I'm sadly out of practice especially the "polite"
part of it - you know the company I have been keeping for the past year or
so. Actually I thought the woman would never go. I certainly threw a few
hints around such as clearing away the tea things and putting on the
wireless to hear the news. I got scared in case she would stay for tea
because I couldn't think of anything we could give her and even the bread
seemed scarce - Mummy hasn't baked this week. Mummy and I have decided to go
to Belfast tomorrow, at least Mummy did all the deciding - you know how I
loathe wandering about for hours and buying nothing. By the way, how is your
Christmas Shopping coming on? Have you seen any books (not too expensive) in
Louers(?) that would suit Daddy. I'm sure I'll be dead to the world tomorrow
night as I have to go up to Lisburn in the morning to collect my boots,
which were being heeled, and to see about the Pyrex Ware. I think maybe I'll
get a couple of dishes for Percy & Kathleen, but perhaps Pattersons won't
give us very much and you have a prior claim. I had my coat cleaned.
Certainly the cleaners didn't waste any time about it. I would rather they
had taken another day or two at it and done it properly. Of course the
stains may not come out anyway. On the whole it looks quite well but it
absolutely stinks of something like paraffin or petrol or something! Daddy
has just asked me what I find to write about every day. Well I just couldn't
answer him. I said it was just like talking to you telling you all the
little things that I have been doing all day. When I come to think of it I
don't really know how I do it and it is an absolute mystery to me how you
manage to cover twelve pages, dear. I have finished my little duck and
started to stuff it with cotton wool, unfortunately I hadn't enough to
finish it and it looks as if it had just had it appendix removed. Mummy
wants me to do the rabbit for Rosemary (the little girl next door). I expect
I'll be in the middle of it by the weekend, so be prepared, dear. Well dear,
I think I have about exhausted my thoughts so will bring this to an end. But
just think, dear, more than half the week has gone and there are just two
more whole days till Saturday. Well dear, cheerio till Saturday & don't
forget I'm still crazy about you, Lots of love. from Dora x x x x x
         
(I think this goes here?)
Good old Portrush, Tuesday. Darling, The
days are going in believe it or not but I do wish they would hurry more and
I do wish you were back here because it is awful to miss a fortnight's fun
and crack. It would be lovely walking these nights in the lovely moonlight
but darling I just couldn't take myself out in it alone because I would miss
you even more than I do normally and that's saying something. I got your
letter today dear and I think I just couldn't have waited until 5-30 if you
hadn't sent it to the office. I was terribly glad you did. Don't forget to
tell me how Elsie's visit went off and how you got round all the awkward
questions. I do hope you weren't stuck for an answer. I had a letter from
mum today, and she was sorry that you had to be off work for so long. She
hopes that you will be on top of your form soon and sends her best love. She
is quite well according to all reports and was asking me (for about the
third time) what leave I am getting at Christmas. Don't forget to let me
know what you are taking darling because I want to do the same. The office
will be closed on Friday and Saturday. If you can't make up your mind
perhaps you would like to leave it till the weekend. Well dear today in the
office was like every other day, things seem terribly routine sometimes
especially when you are not here yet. Somehow even a mild argument (although
I just loathe fighting with you even not seriously, honestly darling I do)
gives one an interest, and then there is always some crack from some one of
us. I do hate even going to the office without your company dear. I miss you
in more small ways than I can remember. I was pretty busy today though,
helping Jimmie with the confidential exam papers and doing my
correspondence. I am also preparing a circular for the Entrance Scholarships
& J.P.T. Examination which I will probably complete tomorrow night in
overtime. It shouldn't take much change from last years' but I have to give
Jimmie an insight into the workings of the exam, which may take a longish
minute. (But I'm sure I am boring you with all this talk of work! Remember
the word 'work' (Sorry darling X f There's a
wee kiss to make it up. What another one? O.K. it's a pleasure g X). I meant
to have a very early night tonight but I was a little later than expected.
After tea, which by the way was a fry of sausages & bacon and a piece of
bread (I feel grand really, dear, & just couldn't resist it) - Well as I was
saying after tea I sat down by the fire with a book but all those women
draped themselves round the fire also and I decided about 7 that I would
take myself off to the office and do a bit of work in the comparative
comfort of our good light and our electric fire. I washed before going out
an left about 7-10 as I thought in good time. Well my watch must have run
down and slowed up considerably because when I got to the office the front
door was shut as it was after 7-30. There was nothing for me to do except to
retrace my weary steps - all my good intentions being frustrated. As I was
coming along by the Methodist Church I remembered about the Badminton match
and decided I would drop in for half an hour anyway to see how the game
should be played. I just got up to the gate when Arthur Howard came up
behind me and gave me a Hello. He was just killing time until the second
half of the pictures he said & had been thinking of going in to see the
Badminton himself. So we both went in. The matches didn't start until about
ten minutes after we arrived and then we only saw one match - the chemist &
the lad with glasses out of the White House were made to look like two
novices and the score was something like 15-5, 15-7 for Ballymoney, I think
those two must have been playing number one & two - I don't know what was
wrong with the Moore chap but I didn't see him about. I got a few tips from
Ballymoney but I decided Portrush wouldn't give them much of a match.
Arthur, who doesn't play himself, didn't know much about it but he agreed
with me. He asked me to come along to the pictures and I am glad I didn't
miss it. It was the young Mr. Pitt" and you would have enjoyed it darling. I
do wish we could have seen it together as it was a very good historical
film. Robert Doval? was very good in it. I think this will do me for
pictures this week but I think if you were here dear. I would be tempted to
see "the foreman went to France" as I believe it should be good. Next week
please, goodness, Popsy and I will go together. It is funny though that I
should be with Arthur two nights running. He is quite a decent lad really
and don't you worry your little head about me being influenced in any way on
the beer question which Arthur is supposed to be fond of, because I
definitely won't. The picture was out about a quarter to eleven & I was
round in the digs before 11 and since then I have been having a wee wash, my
supper and writing to my little dirl.? There were no baths tonight darling
so far as I am aware because Josie reported that the weather being
unfavourable & we chimney wouldn't draw and therefore it was deeply
regretted by her mistress that the young ladies officially & the young
gentleman unofficially could not perform their ablutions as was their wont
on Tuesday night. In other words Josie said "Mrs. Russell says you can't
have baths because there was a blow down" Before I forget, darling, did your
mummy have any luck over the Pyrex dishes? I don't see any in the White
House but haven't asked as I was hoping to here something from you. It
doesn't matter if your mum is unsuccessful & I think I will make enquiries
in 'the White House' on Thursday anyway (unless they are open tomorrow) I
think I should kiss you goodnight sweetheart (or should I say good morning
to you) and get a wee bit of shut eye myself. I love you every bit as much
as ever and am missing you more than ever darling & hope you are missing me
too because it is a nice thought. So all my love, Robin P.S. You are
still saving all those big hugs for Saty? x x x x x x x x x P.P.S. Take care
of yourself darling & don't do too much rushing about. Take it easy when you
can. Love R. x x x
          
17th December 1942 Postmark Portrush to Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn, Co. Antrim - You know where, Wednesday - My dear Dora, It's now
Wednesday and I suppose you will hardly get this until Friday. Still looking
forward to seeing me on Saturday dear? I am certainly counting the hours as
I get terribly lonely sometimes - more than sometimes. I got your Tuesday
letter this afternoon but darling it was only four pages! and you had a lot
of time on your hands in which to tell me what you were thinking about and
all the little things you did. Then Elsie was in for four hours and you
didn't tell me whether there were any awkward moments or how my own wee Dora
got round them. I am not really amazed as I know it is hard to write when
one is not out & about. This morning was terribly wild with heavy rain and a
very strong wind. I seemed to notice the cold etc. & was generally miserable
on the way round to the office. I thought to myself at the N. Counties
corner that when you are with me I don't seem to notice the wind so much as
I am kind of struggling on for you and I forget myself, my trouser legs were
soaking when I made the office. I gave my hat an outing for once in its
life. I got the fountain pens by this mornings post. Your broad nib writes
very well - nice and smoothly - but my fine one is a little bit too fine and
needs to be run in for a little while. I started this letter with it but am
continuing with the pen a nice little dirl gave me as a present. On the
whole it might have been better if I had got a medium nib in mine. However
the fine one is really satisfactory enough. I will of course bring them for
you to see on Saturday. About leave dear, I think it would be better if I
didn't take any ??ther at Christmas because old Roper is going off for a
week and I wouldn't like to leave Jimmy all on his own on the secondary end.
So I will tell Ena tomorrow that you will not be taking any leave - O.K.?
You remember you have to come home with me after Christmas and we could
possibly take a day. But we will see about that later. You needn't worry
about your bicycle too much darling because I hurried back today after lunch
and cleaned it all over with oil. There were a few spots of rust here and
there but nothing to worry about. I will probably find time tomorrow to put
a little vaseline on the chromium and it should be O.K. I will give mine a
bit of a rub later as it is not so important and is not really very dirty.
That will cost you a least half a dozen hugs (big ones) You missed 'the
usual' messengers & cleaners Christmas gifts appeal, which came round today,
it is really nothing but money in here these days - Burns collected 4/= for
the Civil Service Benevolent Fund. I got a bit of a crack from the Colonel
today. Billy Apperson has got a bad cold and when he was up in the branch
today the Colonel shouted down to Jimmie and me that he knew what gave it to
him. It appears that Mrs. Apperson is staying in Bangor and Billy is living
alone. Billy of course came back with the crack that I wouldn't know
anything about it and the Colonel replied that it couldn't be long now. So
what do you think of that? I had a very poor tea this evening - a slice of
spam without even any fancy lettuce trimming and two sorts of bread -
wheaten soda and loaf and you know I am all alone at the table as Colburn is
at another Engineering Cadet Ships (Medical) Board. So there isn't much
noise these days at 'our' table - except for the soup etc. I am practicing
my table manners however and I am getting quite good at passing myself
things. I was working late tonight and was in the room myself so I got quite
well cleared up. I was in from 6-45 until 9-30. Miss Howe, Miss Coard & Miss
Morris were in and Miss Coard ran into me going out and of course enquired
how you were, Miss Howe who was with her and said she supposed you would be
back on Monday simply to be with me. You will darling, won't you? I hope so.
I called into the Badminton on my way round but I didn't play as it was
getting late & there were very few there. I didn't see Ena but she may have
been there and away again. I had some games of table tennis with Nat Moore.
He is very good & beat me but I was in quite good form and I gave him a bit
of a run for his money. That is if he was trying. Darling it is a wonderful
night for a walk and I do wish you were here because I just couldn't resist
the White Rocks. The moon is glorious and the air is quite mild. It is quite
a change from the morning. But why dear have you to be so far away? The time
really seems to be going in very slowly - it is like that in the first half
of the week but I suppose after tomorrow it will begin to brighten up a bit
and go places. I am looking forward to seeing you at the weekend dear and
what's better to bringing you back with me (Tell me you don't really mind
leaving home comforts too much when I'm down here, darling) I was just
thinking that Mrs. Ellis' rations will be becoming sadly depleted with all
my weekends but I will try not to eat too much. I expect to be on the 12-40
again on Saturday so that I should see you about the same time - I must
remember not to kiss you when the doors open. Darling please thank your
mother for her trouble over the Pyrex. I hope she was able to get me
something though and it is really very good of her to go to so much trouble.
I don't suppose I will get an answer to this one but please keep on missing
me darling - and it won't be long until the weekend. I was thinking that it
would be hardly worth while you coming up to Belfast to go to a show on
Saturday (unless of course you would like to that would be o.k.) because by
the time I would get in and have a bite to eat, it would be getting on
latish. We could do our celebrating better down here and I could take you
for a nice long walk in Lisburn if you felt like it. If there is anything
you would like to see or do in town you could of course meet the train.
Darling I think I should close now, I want to drop mum a note and it is
getting late. You will excuse sweetheart. I will write again (a big long
one) tomorrow night and in the meantime give you all my love & hugs &
kisses. Yours Robin x x x x x x
I don't suppose there is anything you want out of your room. If so write me.
R. x x x x
     
17/12/42 At Home, Thursday - My dear Robin, Surely you broke a record
to-day. I received two letters, each ten pages long, both in the same day.
You must have posted Wednesday's letter earlier than usual for it came by
this afternoon's post. You gave me quite a lecture in your last letter dear,
for only writing four pages, but really dear I had a very quiet life at home
and nothing ever seems to happen. This morning Mummy went up to do some
shopping in Lisburn leaving me in charge at home. I had quite a busy
morning, but I was glad Mummy didn't suggest my doing the shopping. I got up
as soon as I had my breakfast and had finished reading my wee Robin's
letter. As soon as I came downstairs (about 10.15 a.m.) I started in and
washed the breakfast dishes, tidied the sitting room & dusted it, made the
beds, got the dinner ready, and then washed & changed. Believe me, dear, I
hadn't much time to waste. Mummy had quite a successful morning as she was
able to get three Pyrex dishes. One was a plain little pie dish (4/3) which
was very nice. I thought, another was a covered dish, slightly larger than
the one you already have (7/3) and the other was a chicken casserole dish
the same as Mummy has (9/7½) so you can take your choice. You will be able
to see them on Saturday so you can decide then. The prices are just from
memory and you know what my memory is like! This afternoon Mummy and I went
to Belfast to do some shopping. I think Mummy bought a little collar and two
face cloths. I didn't buy anything at all. There was a terrific crowd in
town and I wasn't sorry to get out of it. I called with the dentist and he
was good enough to give me half an hour of his time. He put a temporary
filling in the back tooth that was so badly broken, but I have to see him
again in January sometime. When we were sitting in the bus at the technical
waiting for it to leave little Elsie came along. She had taken the half day
off to shop. She didn't tell me if she had got your present but I'm sure she
wouldn't leave an important thing like that to the last minute. I told her
we were going to church on Sunday evening & if she liked she could join us.
She didn't give me a definite answer. I hope you don't mind her coming,
dear. I'm so glad the pens have arrived. I suppose yours would have been
better with a medium nib but I'm sure it will be all right when it has been
used for a while. Don't drop mine dear until I have had a chance to try it.
I don't think I want anything out of my room dear, but how about the
Christmas cards? You should have sent one off to Jeff, I don't know how long
it would take to reach him. You needn't bother about my cards as my address
book is in Portrush. I can send them off on Monday evening. I'm glad you
don't want to take any leave at Christmas. I think it would be better if we
both waited until the new year. Thank you very, very much for fixing up my
bicycle, I was actually getting worried about it. I do hope you weren't very
rushed at dinner time. About the leave dear, (sorry to hop about so much)
would you mind reminding Ena or Eva (or Miss Howe) that I won't be back
after Christmas until 12 (noon) on Monday, that is, of course, if you don't
want to dash back on Sunday night. Really, dear, I can't think on another
thing to tell you but don't forget that I'm still missing you as much as
ever. Just imagine, dear just one more whole day until Saturday. Hurry as
much as you can. This is all for now. Lots of love indeed all of it,
darling, from Dora x x x x x x
1942, no month
  
1942 to Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim - The
Office, Monday. My dear Dora, I don't suppose you were expecting a
note from me until Wednesday. I just thought I would drop you a wee line or
two just to keep you from thinking long. You will forgive me for it won't
you? I suppose you will get it tomorrow afternoon so that in any case
your breakfast won't be getting cold. I will of course drop you a few more
lines tonight dear although I will have to do a bit of thinking about what
to tell you as nothing really has happened today since you waved me goodbye.
Darling, I do want to thank you for getting up this morning to see me off
and for the weekend generally. I can't remember whether I thanked you this
morning or not but I meant to. I am afraid my manners seem to slip both when
I'm leaving you and when I'm meeting you. You will forgive them though won't
you? I just get a wee bit flustered (do you know why?) and forget. It was
good of you to see me out so early and also to let me have my breakfast in
bed. I would just love to have been able to spend the week keeping in
company. I will try very hard to be content until Saturday & I will write
every day. Eva has just brought me up a note to enclose when I am writing so
here it is. What do you think of Miss Howe? All her cracks about getting
married seem to be turning out to be a case of "Wolf! Wolf!" I will post
this on the way home. Eva told me to read her note. I don't think I like the
crack (or the general tone) However, all I said was that you were feeling
better but still got the tired feeling slightly. I didn't anticipate any
crack! Well dear I will be talking to you again tonight. All my love, Robin
x x x x
1943
    
   
1
2
1)
23/5/43 Sunday 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Sunday - My dear Robin,
here I am no Sunday afternoon with most of my work done for the day. I have
just washed my face, etc., etc., and thought I would like to send you a
letter. I'm afraid it will be just as short as ever as I never seem to hear
any news except on the radio. I have been learning to do things about the
house that I have never attempted to do before. For instance, on Friday
evening I ironed two shirts, among other things, of course. They didn't look
exactly as if they had been done by a professional, but I expect I shall
improve with practice. Then yesterday afternoon I made plain bread - a cake
of soda (currant) and a cake of wheaten. They look all right from the
outside but of course the real test will come at tea time. Of course I did
both the shirts and the bread under Mummy's supervision, but it is a step in
the right direction, what say you? Mummy has been leading the life of a lady
and it seems to agree with her. Sometimes she gets up before dinner, but
usually she waits until all the fuss is over. She is still very shaky, but I
expect that is due to the effects of the flu. Personally I think she looks a
little better. She has just a little colour in her cheeks and she doesn't
look quite so strained. I must tell you this dear - Auntie Lizzie (Daddy's
Sister) was over for a few minutes yesterday afternoon, and when she saw me
she thought I had resigned from the office to get married!! What have you
been doing all weekend, darling? Are you giving your mother a good time and
is she getting good weather. At home here, it is quite stormy and showery so
I expect it is the same, and perhaps worse at Portrush. Did you turn out for
the Home Guard Parade this morning? I hope you remembered enough drill to
do, dear, I wish I could have been there to see you. I have been missing you
very much dear, but I keep telling myself that I'll be seeing you at the end
of the week. Darling, do you think you will be able to get this Saturday
off. I know you are terribly busy at the Office, but I would like you to
come. Don't even mention it to Jimmy if you think it might spoil your chance
of getting the following Saturday. Percy is very anxious for you to be at
the wedding. Before you commit yourself about this Saturday perhaps I should
warn you that Percy is taking his furniture away at about nine o'clock on
Saturday morning so you won't have much chance of lying in bed. In fact I
wouldn't be surprised if you got a job. Now don't say I didn't warn you,
dear. I almost forgot to thank you for sending the parcel. It was very nice
of you to enclose a letter. But you will write soon again, won't you. The
family send their kind regards and I send all my love, Just a little for
your Mother, Dora x x x xx x x
2) 31/5?/43 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Friday 31st - Robin dear, I
thought I had better let you know that I arrived home safely and it didn't
take me long to get my sleeves rolled up. Mummy is much the same, and I'm
glad to say seems to have the worst of the flu over. We both went up to see
the doctor this afternoon - Mummy to get her injection and me to see about
the certificate. The doctor was very nice about it and made no fuss at all.
He just said when he handed it to me "May the Lord have mercy on my Soul"
The certificate is made out until the 31st May and states that I am
suffering from an influenza cold. He suggested that Mummy should come back
with me to Portrush, but as the wedding is on the 5th I hardly think she
will be able to manage it. Robin, do you think you should explain the
circumstances to Jimmy in case he should mention anything to anyone about
Mummy being ill. Did your Mother arrive this evening? It looks as if she is
going to have good weather. It has been a wonderful day here. I hope you
explained to your Mummy how sorry I am to miss seeing her. Be sure you give
her a good time and don't spend every evening at the office. Give her my
love, won't you. My time is getting short if I am to catch the post. Anyhow
I really haven't any news for you at all. I hope you aren't missing me too
much. I miss you dear but up till the present I have hardly had time to
think. Darling about the wedding present - if you do get it don't spend much
money on it. Just buy a little thing like an ornament or an ashtray. But if
you don't buy anything it really doesn't matter. Have you been giving any
more lessons on the bicycle. Remember I have to approve of all your pupils.
I don't like the way your hand slips around her waist. This is really all
darling, write soon, lots & lots of love from Dora. I sent the med. cert. on
to the a/cs Branch. x x x x
      
23/5/43 (wrong date because this date fell on a Sunday, see letter above)
8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Tuesday - Robin darling, It was nice to hear
from you to-day and it was good of you to write such a long letter when you
were so sleepy. Were you in bed when you wrote it dear? Write soon again and
let me know when you are coming up to see me - make it Friday evening if you
can, dear. I hope you weren't disappointed because I didn't write yesterday,
but really I hadn't a minute to spare until well after post time. All
morning I was busy washing clothes, making meals and generally tidying up.
Then in the afternoon I had to wash up the dishes, go to the doctor with
Mummy, and when we were up town at the doctor's of course Mummy had to look
around the shops a little with the result that she was very tired all
evening. (Believe me, she wasn't the only one, for you know how I hate going
round the shops.) When we arrived home about five o'clock there was Cousin
Millie being entertained by Percy who had just come in. So I started in &
made a spot of tea (bacon & "fadge"). I was nearly to tired to make it but
Percy came and gave me a hand, so that helped a little. After tea I washed
up the dishes and sat and made polite conversation until Millie caught a
bus. And so, dear, poor Robin didn't get his letter, forgive me dear. Millie
brought Percy a wedding present. It was a cut glass marmalade pot with
silver lid and spoon - very nice. You certainly take advantage of your poor
Mother when you get her to yourself. Imagine a new shower-proof and a new
pair of flannels. It is certainly a blessing I got my new coat as I'm sure
you would have absolutely nothing to do with me if I had only my old "duds".
I had a letter from Ena yesterday enclosing the £1 I had lent Carmel. Will
you thank her for me, please. Ena told me about the changes at the office
and also about Miss Forsyth's wedding. I was very much surprised at Scott
(the Snoop?) getting the principal-ship of Secondary Branch. Sure he never
did any of that work. You will have to be on your best behaviour now,
remember he wears rubber soles. You always thought you wouldn't come into
contact with him, but you can't be sure of anything these days!! I'm glad
you enjoyed the parade on Sunday, I wish I could have been there and seen
for myself who all were there. Did I actually write in my letter that I had
an "influential" cold? If I did I'll forgive you for mentioning it, but if
it is your won unaided effort, I'll settle up with you when I see you. Here
I am, I have written over four pages, and I haven't told you how Mummy is
keeping. She is still very pale and weak, in fact I don't really see any
improvement. The doctor said something about her having a blood transfusion
so if she doesn't improve soon we will have to see what can be done. Do you
think I could spare a pint or so, but I expect Percy would be the best one.
We really haven't discussed it as the doctor didn't stress the point, but I
think it would be a good idea. I washed my hair this afternoon and I have
just set it, turning the ends out instead of in, but I expect it will be
such a mess that I will put my head into a bucket of water and set it the
old way again. I'm going to have a bath very shortly and then I will be
clean "all over". Mummy and Daddy I have both seen me writing to you. Mummy
sends her love and Daddy wishes to be remembered to you. I have started this
page and I really haven't anything to tell you. I could go on telling you
how much I love you and how much I miss you, but you must know all that
already. Darling, do you remember when you left in your sports jacket to be
cleaned I'm sure it should be ready soon now. Well I really think this is
all, so I'll close and go & have my bath. Do you think I'll be able to
manage all alone with no one to "hold" the bathroom, no one to run the
water, no one to ------- !!! Give my love (just a little) to your Mother and
keep all the rest for yourself. Still missing you, still loving you Dora
     
29th December 1943 Postmark Portrush to Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn, Co. Antrim - The Office, Wed. - My dear wee Dora, Just a short note
from the office to let you know that the big puffer engine for my safely
back to the land of the frozen north - and all alone too, dear help me!
Nobody loves me. I rang up the office of the fair band of key pushers to let
them know that you wouldn't be in & why. So far as I could gather darling -
it wasn't very clear - Carmel is in charge today as Emily is out with a
cold. Carmel seemed to be in a bit of a hurry to get off the phone so I
didn't get any details. She said she was sorry to hear about you & that she
would probably see me at dinner time and get the dope. But I didn't see her.
Perhaps she or Ena will write to you soon. I may see them sometime & will
pass on any news they have for you dear. I am sure you want to know more
about Emily's indisposition etc. but I am afraid I'm at a loss; and anyway
don't you dare bother about being out or I'll etc. etc. Well sweetheart, I
do hope you are keeping lots & lots better & that you will be perfectly all
right by the weekend. Write and let me know what the doctor said about you.
I suppose I will just potter around tonight & get my room shipshape.
Everything seems to be in order (Yours too!) but I asked for two more
blankets and mark you practically ordered clean sheets. (Mrs. R.
consulted all in good part) Well darling it is getting near to 5-30 and I'll
kiss you cheerio in the meantime, with best love & all of it. R. x x x x
      
31st December 1943 Postmark Portrush to Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn, Co. Antrim -
P.S. I have had no ill effects whatever touching wood! Pl excuse scribble
especially at end. Love R. x x - The Office, Thursday eveg. - Dora Darling,
Tonight is working later night and I didn't have any wee girl to leave up to
Castle Erin. Believe it or not but I do miss you up here, dear, more than
sometimes. I saw Carmel & Ena at dinner time today and they were asking me
about you. Carmel was saying that if she has a minute she will drop you a
note. She says she is feeling o.k. now but I didn't think she was looking
too well. However she never does look too robust. Emily will be in tomorrow
but I gathered that there was no rush and nobody is killed, Ena was saying
that you would be wise to take your time coming back and get completely
better. They were asking me was I bearing up. Of course I had to say 'yes'
but you know how things are!! They had really no office news - or maybe none
they could tell me, but as I said Carmel might be dropping you a note. I
believe we missed a battle royal with Miss Heather and an Xmas visitor. You
may remember, darling, Mary told us about a man & woman (awfully nice
gentleman etc.) with a wonderful dog who were up here when we were on leave
& who were coming down again at Xmas. Well it appears that they did come &
had some words with the dear Lilian about her usual remarks re war, Irish,
Americans etc. (which are usually ignored) on a few occasions but the big
non? came when Lilian endeavoured to assist the wonderful dog down the
stairs with a 'free' kick and was caught out. I think the gentleman was
rather annoyed to say the least & gave her her pedigree. I'm sure if he had
consulted any of us he might have got a few points. However he did a thing
we have always hoped would happen; he got hold of Mrs. Russell & pointed out
that he would never be back in the house while they were there, nor would he
recommend anyone else to come, going on to say that such people were bound
to do her business harm. So both Leathems are supposed to be on either a
weeks or a fortnights' notice. I said 'supposed', darling, for reasons well
known to you. Christmas Cheer at the Alexandra, what? Just think of the fun
we'll miss later on by not being in digs! I am all alone at the table these
days. No cracks darling! Miss D. I believe has left. Miss Leathem was
supposed to be very inquisitive and ask Mrs. Russell why she left; Mrs.
Russell replying 'because of them' (again the informant is Mary). Another
good crack is going around about Miss L. She is supposed to have gone around
to the American Canteen looking for a job. The officer she saw the first
time said things weren't altogether organised but would she come back. She
trotted round later & saw him again. He said yes I have just the thing - we
are looking for a kitchen maid. Pity he hadn't said 'servant' eh! Darling
you had better put this on the coals & make sure it burns! and how is my
little darlin? I am expecting to hear from you tomorrow (Friday) & good news
that you are o.k. except that you miss me very much & a wee kissy too.
Darling I am looking forward to the weekend. Sometimes I just stop at
the office & get a lovely feeling of anticipation, shall we say. I do miss
you darling for lots & lots of things, big & small. I had your hot water
bottle with me in bed last night & Mary or somebody had my pyjamas warming
round it. I was thrilled no end, dear, honest & I didn't sleep a wink (not
so honest!). Darling it's about time to go now and I might drop in to see
Abbot & Costello in the Majestick (Money for Jam) you don't mind sweetheart.
I'll be as good as gold. I will post this tonight & you will likely get it
tomorrow afternoon. So in the meantime lots & lots of love & kisses & don't
forget to write & let me know how you are progressing. R. x x x x x
maybe late 1943
     
The Digs, Tuesday evening. I
am putting 3d in stamps I hope this will by o.k. dear R. x x x - My dear
wee Topsy, Please don't expect a big long letter dear as I really
haven't much news. I got this Strand Mag. this morning when I was in for
the paper so I am sending it on. I can read it later, dear, you can keep
it for me. You will be very interested to know that even the Secretary
was enquiring about you. Carmel was telling me this evening when I
bumped into her & Ena. Carmel told him that you weren't too well yet and
that you had 'so & so'. He caught on without consulting his medical
dictionary and he said that tummy trouble was a hard enough thing to get
rid of and that you might be troubled on and off with it for a month. So
what do you know! That surely will mean a special increment when you
come back. I thought Carmel was pulling my leg about it - all due
respect to you of course - but she crossed her heart & hoped to die etc.
saying 'he takes an interest in us one and all, you know.' Carmel
herself is not too well I think. Ena says so anyway and Carmel puts it
off with a joke. Tonight as you may remember, used to be bath night. I
say 'used to be' as baths seem to be a thing of the past. Actually I
have no defence tonight as I forgot to mention it to Mary at dinner
time. The girls, however, have had to forego their baths and there is
not a semblance of heat in the water these days. I am afraid dear I may
have to trouble your mum at the weekend for a wee plunge if she doesn't
mind. I would be scared down here even of a luke warm one dear, as I
might get a chill. By the way I noticed today about the elder Miss
Leathem's speech. It certainly does seem very thick, hesitant &
indistinct. She may have got a mild stroke and she must be a very old
woman. Scott was talking to Jimmy on the phone today and we may not be
going up to Belfast until the exams are over. There is nothing definite
but evidently Glen had been talking to Scott and was of that opinion. It
is sense enough because you know well dear the kind of mess we would be
in if we moved any time from May till September. There is however the
possibility that none of us will be up before Sept. Jimmie as you know
is keen to hold on as long as possible as he simply loves it here. And
how is my wee darling keeping? I hope your tummy is now settled again
and that it will soon be perfectly well again. You could let me know
later sweetheart whether you would be well enough to go up to town on
Monday and we could possibly do some shopping and maybe pay a visit to
the Jewellers. If there is any doubt about your being well enough, we
can postpone it. But I am just mentioning it. You understand what I mean
dear. I do fairly miss you darling especially in the evenings when I
think of going to the Pictures or getting out for some fresh air. It is
not the same by any means doing either by myself. I may go to see Melvyn
Douglas & Ann Sothern in "Three loves (hearts) for Julia' in the old
picture house tonight. Jimmy says it is quite good. He saw it last
night. But I do wish you could come and I suppose I don't wish it as
much as you do. It is a long long time since we have done a show but
we'll make up for it. I don't think I have any more news at present
darling. I find myself writing in the evenings. When I said at the
weekends it would probably be from the office. But I don't suppose you
really mind where I write from so long as I write. Don't forget to write
& let me know how you are progressing. Remember the Secretary may ring
up anytime and ask me and I'd better be forearmed! Sorry darling!!
Remember me to the family and tell your mum that the little lunch she
gave me was very acceptable. Cheerio & big hugs & kisses for the
meantime. All my love, Your own Hargie x x x x
1944
  
 
   
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1) 3/1/44 At Home, Monday - Robin Darling, At about 4-30 this
afternoon I managed to overcome my laziness and come downstairs. Do you
know, dear, I actually washed my face & neck with soap - the first time for
a week. I feel much better to-day although I still feel a bit shaky when I
walk about. I have just finished my tea which I enjoyed very much. I had
"6d" worth so if I keep it up I should get my strength back in no time.
Mummy is going up to see the doctor to-morrow evening. Perhaps he will say
that I can go back on Wednesday morning, but I hardly think so. If Mummy has
any say in the matter I won't be back for at least another week. I myself
think I'll be quite all right again by the end of this week. Darling, I
wonder if you would mind asking Mrs. Russell about my Ration Book. The only
things I really want are butter and meat. Do you think you could call at the
Food Office and get me an Emergency Card. I don't know if you can get the
"butter & meat" separately but if not you could get me a card for
everything. You needn't bother sending my Ration Book as I won't need any
points, tea or soap. The card is just for one week - the present one. I'm
afraid this letter is all about myself but I have absolutely no news and I'm
afraid there is no prospect of any. You will have to supply both the news
and the gossip. You will write, dear, won't you, even if you haven't
anything much to tell me. I do so look forward to getting your letter. I
think I will finish now & try & do a spot of knitting - I feel as if I'm
wasting an awful lot of time just sitting around & doing nothing. Darling,
be sure you go to see that picture with Melvyn Douglas and ---- in it. They
always make such a good partnership!! I really will close now, dear. All my
love, Dora. Are you at the H.G. to-night?
2) 4/1/44 At Home, Tuesday - Darling would you mind ringing Ena (or
Emily) telling her about the med. cert. I'll write to Ena later. D. - My
dear Robin, You are definitely out of favour to-day as I didn't get a
letter. But I'll forgive you this time if there is one for me tomorrow.
Mummy went up to see the doctor this afternoon. It was Dr. MacHugh this
time. He gave me a certificate for another seven days as I am still
suffering from enteritis. He is coming down in the morning to see me. I had
a letter from Ena this morning. She seems to be in quite good form, although
I am afraid she hadn't a very enjoyable Christmas. It is the first Christmas
after her father's death so I expect they all found it very lonely. Ena says
that Carmel hasn't been so well - I'm afraid she has gone back to work too
soon. As usual I have no news for you, dear. How are the digs doing? Any
further developments in the Leathem position? If Mrs. Russell gave them a
fortnights notice it is time they were making a move. I'm sure dear Lilian
has been anxiously enquiring after my health!!! Darling, I really must close
as I really have no news - no fresh news, that is. You know of course that I
am crazy about you even though you don't think it worth while to drop me a
line. Lots of love darling, Dora x x x x x x This is Tuesday - only 3 whole
days till Saturday !!!!
3) (no date I believe this goes here) The Office, Thursday
even. I've run out of initial note paper so am using official. Love R.
x. x f just an excuse for - Darling, I
am 'working' late this evening as you have probably guessed. I got your
Tuesday letter today and was disgusted to learn that you hadn't got a
letter from me on Tuesday. I must have missed the post darling. I am
sorry but I have written every night. Am I forgiven? I'm sorry I have
bad news for you, I just heard to-night that the Leathem's aren't
leaving after all. It is a strange thing, isn't it darling? and they do
threaten to go, so often! (Ginger's Story). Betty Mitchell asked Mary
point blank tonight if they were going and she said no. Mrs. Russell was
supposed to give them a telling off. You can imagine it. Yes Miss
Leathem! No Miss Leathem! We'll do our best about the baths in the
morning but you know . . . . . etc. etc. It makes me ill! or it would do
it it mattered two hoots. I don't suppose you really believed that they
would actually go but it did look as if they had over-stepped themselves
badly over the visitor (+ his dog!) at Christmas. I see that the doctor
has given you another seven days, Darling I'll never be able to hold out
all that time but I suppose I'll have to try. Darling how could you?
Still if it does the trick this time, I'll be as glad as you are and you
would be silly to come back any sooner. You will probably take the rest
of next week. If you do I will come down again & pick you up. Of however
you would be coming down in the middle of the week dear, I will come up
take a half day. I have a spare half day to come. I have no news at all,
dear. I forgot this afternoon to ring up Emily about your med. cert. but
I will do it first thing tomorrow morning sure. I got my washing from
home this afternoon & a little note. I told my mother to ask Bee about a
pattern for the gloves we were to make. Well Bee hasn't got a pattern at
the moment but she will try to get one. The teacher in the Technical
School cut Bee's out but she thinks she might have a pattern in a book,
I had nearly forgotten about those gloves!! Mother was showing Aunt
Belle & Bee the little pictures. They thought they were lovely! (quoted)
Aunt Belle said I was to keep it up & added that Humbert Cray (Craig?)
was self taught. Encouragement, eh? Don't make me laugh, did you say?
Darling, again how could you? There is really no crack that I hear in
the office or digs these days dear. In fact life is very dull without
you. The weather (that old standby) is terrible. I kept Billy Apperson
waiting tonight but only for about five minutes. I'm sure he wasn't too
comfortable as there was a drizzle falling. He didn't say anything
though. (section missing, I messed up the scan, sorry) . . .
have got it over dry. Anyway tomorrow's Friday & the next day's -; well
Saturday at least! Billy Apperson was saying that I was getting as bad
as him with going home weekends and looking forward to them. He's just
about right too. Darling you can expect me about the usual time on
Saturday. I don't think I will write tomorrow night as I have lots to
do. I want to get my hair cut if I can get in and do a wee bit of
tidying up in my room. I don't suppose you will mind for one night
especially as you will be seeing me Saturday. I do hope you are still
feeling not too bad and are tucking into the sixpence-worths - they
really are worth it. I am finishing the 'Adexolin' tabs I got some time
ago. Then I may have a go at the Metatone. Boy will I be getting tough.
You'd better be careful. Lots of love darling, Robin x x x x
    
    
  
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1) 6th January 1944 Postmark Portrush to Miss Dora Ellis, 8 Llewellyn
Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim - Wednesday, Guess where - Dora darling, I got
your letter today and I am very glad sweetheart you are feeling better. I
personally didn't expect you back today; no matter how much I would like you
to be back darling. I got you an emergency card for all the various items
which is enclosed herewith as they say in the worst of circles. I see that
it covers bacon & sugar in addition to what you wanted and I don't think
anyone could object to that eh? Darling I have left this note rather late
tonight. I was making a calendar (?) out of the little cottage picture. I
put it on a piece of cardboard (of course I forgot you saw it started) I
have just got the mount round it up to the present & maybe you could help me
finish it at the weekend, it doesn't look too bad but of course I haven't
got the expert opinion on it yet! As I was about to say; I didn't notice the
time go in and about eleven I just popped into bed, having just had my
supper, and it is now later for poor little Topsy's note - but I wouldn't
disappoint her for world's by not writing no sir! I'm sure though I don't
know what I do write about because I really have no news. I went to the
pictures last night. It was Melvyn Douglas and Ann Sothern, yes Ann Sothern,
so don't say I didn't know. It wasn't half bad but I have seen Mervyn
Douglas in better. When are we going to go together darling? Soon? Yes! No!
Darling I hope you are getting my scribbles the day after I write them - I
mean I'm not always sure that I'm getting the right posting time. Did you
get the Strand mag or map O.K.? I had a note from mum yesterday. She seemed
to be in good form and she had her chicken on Sunday & I expect every other
day this week. She said she thought maybe she wouldn't have to have her Yank
friend in after all to help her eat it! She was asking for you of course and
hopes you will soon be completely better. Well darling there isn't much
doing and I have really no news. It's no news that I'm still crazy about
you, is it? Darling don't forget a wee note letting me know how you
are getting on. You will excuse me if I am getting a wee bit sleepy & draw
the line. Your hot water bottle is still keeping me company and I'm not too
sure whether he will want to leave me even when you come back. Can you think
of a remedy - apart from your bringing another one back!! I think I'd better
say Goodnight darling with all my love, Robin x x x x x
2) 13th January 1944 Postmark Portrush to Miss D. Ellis, 8 Llewellyn
Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim - The office, Thursday - Darling, I was unable
to get any 'mags' this week but may get some before Saty. R x x - Topsy
Darling, Do you just see what day it is! Isn't it just grand; only tomorrow
and then Saturday. I'm just a bad now as Billy Apperson. He gets into great
form by the end of the week and is a bit seedy at the beginning. It was my
turn today to get two letters. I am sorry you didn't get mine until
Wednesday but apparently posting in the morning doesn't reach you that same
day. You remember we used to think it would dear, but I am afraid not. It is
good to read that you are feeling better - a good deal better and that your
'rheumatism' is improving. Darling not 'rheumatism' or I'll be mentioning
anno domini and you might bite my ear!! or worse. I see you are still
worrying about bringing a lunch into the office in town. Well there is
really no immediate danger and you never know what conditions will be by the
time the place is ready. There was a government contract notice in the paper
yesterday inviting tenders for the erection of a building for the 'Govt.' at
Stranmillis. Ten to one it is our place so you can see that the whole
project is not very far advanced. Then again I heard our friend Ginger
mentioning in the digs that Mrs. Winn was retiring from the W.V.S. as she
will be returning to town, and the College too. But you know how Ginger
turns round things to suit some purpose and I would put no store by it at
all. This was a red letter day in the digs darling as I had an egg this
morning. I knew it was an egg because Mary said so - otherwise I wouldn't
have believed my eyes. It was quite a good one too although my tummy mustn't
be used to them especially from the Alexandra, I don't seem to have had any
ill effects - yet - but as it is now after dinner time I think I am o.k.
Incidentally I was the only one who had an egg. The girls must now be struck
off the strength. There must be something wrong as we had chips last night
for tea. I see you underestimated Mrs. Magees powers of ejection. The girls
certainly are going so far as I can see without any regrets. Ginger was
asking again for you the other morning. I replied politely. She was telling
me that her sister got a chill and she was also troubled with blood
pressure. She also said that her sister doesn't listen to her (she's only
one of many) as she still regards her as if she hadn't grown up. I assure
you I refrained from any cracks but with difficulty. Mrs. Russell is now
having the time of her life with Miss L. running out and in to tell her how
many times the Yanks have blattered or let something fall on the ceiling up
above. She is terribly scared of being smothered in debris or decapitated by
the magnificent chandelier. I was telling you we had a bit of trouble with
the stoves. Well we have finally got them made right after weeks of smoking.
The blooming things needed a good cleaning. The sweep incidentally in
cleaning the stove beside me was scared of knocking off the cowl at the top
of the pipe as he had done in the case of one of the other stoves with the
result that he left a big blob of soot at the top and my fire couldn't be
lit yesterday. We had it removed today so that your own little Hargie is no
longer being frozen stiff. We are beginning to get into our busy period now
and the post has increased very considerably this last two days and I'm
afraid I'll soon have to work for my living again darling. I told you in the
letter I wrote last night that I haven't been at the pictures this week.
There wasn't much on really but I may go to see Betty Grable, John Payne,
Caesar Romero, etc. in Springtime in the Rockies, which to quote "eclipses
all past entertainment in musicals and presents the most beautiful & most
expressive Technicolor ever screened. "How do they think up these
write-up? How about slipping down and seeing it with me darling? I do wish
you could!! But I will be patient & we will have some burst out when you
come back! You betcha! I may go to the flicks tonight after 'working late;
or tomorrow night. I will see that my wee honey gets her pay this week o.k.
It would just be too bad if the A/Cs Branch stopped paying owing to apparent
over-opulence on your part by not collecting your dues. Darling, I may drop
you a little note tomorrow but if I don't you will know to expect me on
Saturday about the usual time dear. I will arrange with Jimmy that if I am
not off the train on Monday he will see to my leave docket. I think that is
the most satisfactory arrangement & I don't think Jimmy will have any
objection. You don't know how much I look forward to the weekend sweetheart
and I do hope that you will continue with the good work of getting better
quickly. Yours with love & kisses Robin x x x x x
3) 17th January 1944 Postmark Portrush to Miss D. Ellis, 8 Llewellyn
Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim - Monday Afternoon in the office after coming
back another Monday without my little girl - Topsy Darling, Just a little
note before post time to let you know that I didn't get into the Larne Train
by mistake or anything like that although it will have to be an idea some of
these weeks. Emily, Miss Keenan & Mr. Apperson were in the carriage this
morning and there were also a few strangers so there wasn't much crack.
Emily was asking for you of course and I told her about the good time you
were having. Not really dear! I didn't want to get you sacked altogether!!
As you know I expected to be alone at the table today. Well it appears that
Lenore is not going into Esdales after all as she wasn't supposed to be
included in the row.? At least so she told me. Mrs. Russell told her so and
she considered the facts that she had such a nice room and had her fire etc.
as compared with a dingy room & no fire is Esdales and she decided to stay
on. So I still have somebody to hold my hand. I just knew that they couldn't
all desert me at once. Could they darling? We were sitting at the window
table and I would prefer the other one but when you get back we'll have two
to one, either way, if you prefer our own table we can make representation
to get there. My tummy is still a bit queer and I am inclined to have to
keep my eye on the door but please don't worry about me because I expect it
will settle down in a little while. I wouldn't trouble you about it really
only I promised to let you know dear. As you are aware darling, I have no
news. I always get the Monday morning feeling now when there is a big long
week in front of me. But the time won't seem so long after Monday & Tuesday
are over. I must keep my eyes open and see if I can get any decent chocolate
or sweets. There doesn't seem to be any 'blended' going around Portrush at
all but there are Frys Cream Bars in plenty. Would you like me to get some
for my little Topsy? Just let me know when you write. I can't remember
anything you told me to do for you in the digs, but if there is anything
just let me know. I hope you are feeling o.k. today and that you got out a
bit. It is certainly nice & mild down here for a change - this is scarcely
an air. This is all for now darling. You will keep me informed how you are
getting on. I expect you will get this on Tuesday all right - so that you
won't tell me off for not writing. Yours with very best love (& kisses)
Robin x x x
P.S. I haven't heard anything about the Secretary-ship? I didn't get but am
keeping my ears open. R x x
      
19th January 1944 Postmark Portrush to Miss D. Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn, Co. Antrim - Please 'scuse horrible scribble. x x x x R. Tuesday
even. - Darling, With Tuesday as good as some things are beginning to look
up again. It is an awful thing wishing ones life away but the weekend does
seem far off on Monday. I hope darling that you are still making good
progress and that you are getting out a wee bit every day. My tummy has
settled a bit. Lenore gave me a bottle which she got from the doctor for
indigestion etc. It just seems to be milk of magnesia and I must say either
it has done me good or I would have felt better anyway. I do feel better &
that is the main thing. I haven't been eating much on purpose & I suppose
that has helped too. Darling you would think I was the invalid to hear this
account! Life is certainly dull enough without you darling. I have however
been keeping busy doing one thing or another. I finished the wee picture
last night - well I might have a few finishing touches to put onto it yet!!
It isn't too bad although by no means perfect. I also went to see Monty
Woolley & Gracie Fields in 'Holy Matrimony' at the old house. It wasn't half
bad really and you would have enjoyed it dear & I would have enjoyed it more
if you had been there. Don't forget about the Ritz on Saturday if you feel
up to it dear. This evening I brought the bicycle wheel to the digs & have
cleaned it (without making the slightest mess) I took out the ball bearings
etc. and have got them all back!! Colburn is lending me two tyre levers
tomorrow which will make the job of taking off the old tyre & putting on the
new one comparatively easy. By the way Colburn offered me £6-10-0 for my
'Hercules' if I can get the three gears going. If not £5-10-0 as it stands.
I didn't say yes or no but if I got £6 for it as it is now I would probably
take it. I wouldn't have the trouble of advertising & bargaining with some
hard case. So I think I will approach him on the subject next time I see
him. What do you think sweetheart? I was also doing a little job for Lenore
tonight. Her fire fused and burned out the wires inside. It wasn't a very
hard job to fix. There was also a bit knocked out of the porcelain part of
the fire during the Christmas holidays. Nobody knew anything about it she
says, I blame Ginger & her bad temper. However I fixed it up with some of
the 'Tiluma' fire clay stuff and it seems to be a good job. I'm sure you're
not too interested in my make do & mend class but I haven't much news
darling otherwise. I had a letter from mum to-day. She is keeping O.K. and
was asking for you of course. She said she was going up to Belfast today &
would keep her eyes open for the pattern for the gloves. I forgot to mention
to you that some time ago I saw Nella White making a pair of gloves & she
had a pattern, so maybe they are back in stock in Coleraine. The digs are
certainly very very quiet without the girls - and without Topsykins as well!
The fire in the dining room has gone out tonight so I am writing this
reclining on the top of the bed with a certain little girls hot water bottle
underneath my you know where! Tut! Tut! I think I will have an early night
after I go round to the P.O. and post this for my little girl, so that she
will get it tomorrow. I am getting into 'The Three Musketeers' and bed is
the warmest place - as you know! I suppose tonight you are gossiping with
little Elsie. I hope you didn't tell her all darling! Not all!! It is quite
a while since you saw her I suppose. Well dear this is the last page of this
writing pad. It was nearly a full one before you went away. Not bad going
seeing that I have also used some G.P. (note paper!) I will expect a letter
tomorrow with a Lisburn post mark & with big hugs and kisses. I do hope
sweetheart that you are feeling stronger & that you will soon be eating me
off the table as heretofore. (Don't throw it!) With all my love, Robin x x x
        
20th January 1944 Postmark Portrush to Miss D. Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn, Co. Antrim - The Digs, Wednesday even. - My dear wee darling,
Wednesday again nearly over and the weekend in sight. A pleasant thought,
dear! a very pleasant thought. You will excuse me if I do not write to any
great length tonight because really I haven't any news and I would like an
early night dear. I'm afraid I didn't have that early night I promised
myself either Monday or last night. I still have the pain in my tummy - not
continuously of course but I am tummy conscious. It is not so bad though
dear and nothing to worry about. I had to forgo steak and onions at dinner
time much to my disgust. In fact I had a little of the steak - couldn't
resist it! I had toast for tea. It was a fry ordinarily, of you know that
minced steak & fried bread, Lenore had no mercy & tucked away into it. I
think I was much better without it. I have still got a touch of that word I
can't spell but which is rather a nasty thing. However some castor oil is
supposed to take care of that. Emily's tummy is supposed to be similarly
upset. I assure you my information is second hand darling via Lenore. I
don't know whether she is off work or not but I suppose Lenore would have
said so if she had been. I haven't been out at all tonight dear. There is
quite a good red fire and I am delving into 'The Three Musketeers' Mrs.
Magee came in a few moments ago to ask me how I was keeping. She is to
arrange not to give me any greasy things for a few days. She was asking for
you dear & remarked that I must be lonely without you. She doesn't know the
half of it sweetheart. I see you approached your mummy on 'the' point. I
think it is really the last way because neither of us really knows anything
worth talking about the subject. You can let me know when you decide to go
up to town if it is before the weekend, otherwise you can tell me all at the
weekend. How did little Elsie & you get on with the gossip? Did you go to
her house or did she come to you? I will forgive you this time if you have
to curtail your Tuesday letter to me by reason of the visit. But I said
'this time' darling. I am not in very good writing form to-night dear, & you
will forgive me for closing soon. I haven't heard anything more about the
job. I must ask Jimmy & maybe he would ask Scott or Spence if he ran into
them. You know he could say "Did you get someone for the secretary-ship
etc." But the reply might be just "Yes" or "No, not yet" However if I hear
anything I will let you know. I remember that Kathleen & Percy will be up
this Friday. Give them my best regards please dear. If they have finished
with the 'Ideal Homes' perhaps they could bring them up to our house
sometime & I could let them have the more recent editions if they would like
to see them. I think this is about all for now dear. Don't worry about me in
the slightest as I am perfectly o.k. I do hope you are looking after
yourself & not over doing anything as now is the time you have to be most
careful sweetheart. I will go round & post this in the P.O. now as it will
give me a mouthful of fresh air & also see that my little girl, whom I love
very much, gets it tomorrow. Best love darling & don't forget to keep up the
writing. You did very well on Monday & it means a lot to me to get it. Yours
Robin x x x x
    
   
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1) 20th January 1944 Postmark Portrush to Miss D. Ellis, 8 Llewellyn
Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim - Thursday, The Office - My dear Dora, I got
your Tuesday letter today and I hope your tired feeling which you mentioned
didn't last too long. I have still got a touch of diarrhoea and an not
eating too much yet but the pains in my tummy have subsided to a certain
extent. Tonight is working late night but I don't know whether I'll bother
seeing I have the excuse that I am not feeling too well. Perhaps I will just
? the book as I am sure later on I will be giving enough free overtime. What
do you think dear! I am of the opinion that I would be much better staying
in & keeping warm than coming in & sitting in the office. Emily rang me up
today asking me to go round & play cards tonight with her & Ena & Carmel but
I told her I couldn't really promise in view of the doubtfulness of my
tummy. I am not too keen anyway but if I had been feeling perfectly o.k. I
would have gone, no doubt, as it is god of them to ask me. This is really a
wild day. There is a terrific shower on at the moment, the sort of shower
you like to listen too when snugly curled up in your wee bed. We are quite
busy in the office these days, although we are not swamped out. I have a
fine time keeping B. L. on the right lines and he doesn't seem to mind my
amendments really. Maybe he just doesn't care or maybe it is my diplomacy.
There hasn't been a decent picture on here in Portrush this week. They are
all one day things which are as old as the hills, compare - San Francisco
which was here at least twice before. There is a talk on 'Planning' in
Bamfords Cafe under the auspices of the Junior Unionist Discussion Group -
you know the thing price 3d. It is on tomorrow night & I may be driven to it
if I feel up to it. I am writing this in the office darling & will post it
on the way home so that I won't have to come out later if I don't feel like
it. There was a good fire last night & I just sat & read. I had to ask for
breakfast this morning, potatoes & real butter & a glass of milk & ground
rice for dinner as I was hungry. I will just likely have toast for tea.
Dear! Dear and not I know how you felt darling, missing the boiled beef &
carrots. I will hardly drop you a note tomorrow (Friday) dear, so that you
can take it that you will be seeing me on Saty usual time. If by any chance
I feel like a few days at home to get over this tummy trouble I will come
down & see you first anyway. But that will hardly be necessary I think -
going home I mean! I do fairly miss you these days dear but the weekend is
not far off now & it is something to look forward to. I do hope you are
keeping o.k. and eating plenty. Any more ? worths? or did your Mum's man let
her down? I think this is about all for now. Please don't worry about me - I
am looking after myself and all that. Don't you forget to do the same dear.
With all my love. Robin x x x x x
2) 2/2/44 At Home, Wednesday - Robin Darling, This is going to be a
lovely short week. This is Wednesday already and I am going away to Larne on
Saturday! I am looking forward to the weekend very much dear, although it
will be a very short one I am afraid. Mummy and I went up to the doctor's
last night and he showed us the x-ray photographs - all five of them. Well,
dear, as I expected, the result is nil. You won't be going through life
"tied" to a delicate woman. There is no sign of T.B. glands, cancer, or
duodenum ulcers (the things I might have had!!) Doctor MacHugh told me that
the only thing about me was that my appendix didn't fill and also that my
larger intestine empties too quickly (he's telling me!!!) As regards my
appendix not filling, it seems that although most people's do fill yet it is
not always the case and doesn't really mean anything. The photographs look
quite impressive, each done up in a folder. Darling, a woman's work is never
done. This afternoon I turned the collar of your shirt and although I say it
myself it doesn't look too bad. All the same I think I could do it better
with some practice. Robin, perhaps your mother will thing I have "Taken"
over already. Do you think she will be annoyed - I'm sure she could have
done it much better herself. It was nice to get your letter to-day. Thank
you dear for writing when you were kept so late. It was very decent of Mrs.
Campbell to make you some supper. Kathleen and Percy are coming up to-morrow
evening just for the night. Do you mind, dear, if I show them my ring, they
might not get a chance to see it for a good while. This time next week I
will probably be back in Portrush. I told the doctor I intended going back
next week. He didn't say much but just asked me to call in and see him on
Monday or Tuesday before I left. I can't think of anything else to tell you.
I'm still waiting in fear and trembling for a notice to attend the board. Do
you think there will be a board or will they just appoint someone - hardly.
Anyhow, I hope they don't pick on me. I am enclosing my sweet coupons. So
you know Robin, I tied a knot in my handkerchief on Monday night to remind
me to give them to you in the morning, but for once in my life I mustn't
have used my hanky that morning. Well, dear, this is really all for now.
Best love & kisses from Dora. P.S. I'll keep the x-ray photographs for you
to see on Sunday evening. D.
not sure where this goes, maybe early 44 or late 43
 
     
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1) The Digs, Friday, Dinner
Time - My dear wee Dora, Just a short note at dinner time with your
parcel. I hope you arrived safe & sound & that the journey was not too
bad. Even when you had gone I thought perhaps I should have travelled up
with you but I suppose you had enough on your hands when you got home. I
hope you found your Mummy not too badly when you arrived, dear, and that
with the rest and your attention (much coveted here) she will be A1 very
soon. I went to the 'flicks' last night but I am afraid I missed you
very much. The picture wasn't at all bad and I think you would have
enjoyed it. There was also a 'Wild Western' during which you could have
held my hand (or vice versa) ever so tightly. Darling, I will be looking
for a better (or a note if you are very very busy) very soon, letting me
know how things are and how much you miss me (I don't really flatter
myself, do you think?) So, in the meantime, give my love to all (a
little) and all the rest of it is for your own little self. Pl. excuse
scribble as dinner calls. Best love (& kisses) Robin x x x x x x
2) The Digs, Tuesday - My dear Dora, I got your Sunday letter
yesterday afternoon but my eyes were very tired last night and I was
also physically tired as Mother & I seemed to meander about doing
nothing much. I did try to write you a few lines last night but I was
too sleepy. So you will forgive me, dear, won't you? I am very much
afraid I could not get off Thurs to Saturday with a clear conscience,
much as I would like to since when I mentioned going to Jimmie he was
not his usual enthusiastic self. We are in the middle of appointing the
superintendents, dear, & very busy and although I say it myself I am
doing most of the work. Jimmie still has his runs to Castle Erin and his
conversations - today with Scott who seems to think he ought to see how
we are doing & later with Claude about the possible D.P.'s Jimmie said
something about it being an awkward time to get a day off when I
mentioned Saturday so although I was a bit annoyed for the above reasons
I said nothing because I knew you would want it that way darling. There
is no doubt whatsoever but that I will get the following Saturday -
that's definite or as definite as it can be. So I am afraid, dear, I
will have to wait until Saturday to see you, I am looking forward to it.
Absence makes the heart etc. etc. as if mine could be any fonder, dear.
Darling, I was thinking maybe I should bring my new suit this weekend
and have the trousers pressed, maybe I could leave it in your wardrobe
or Percy's until the next weekend and it would not be crushed to the
same extent as if I brought it with me next Friday. What do you think?
Also if there is anything I could bring for you I might have a little
room in my case & fit it in. Mother is not going away until tomorrow and
she has enjoyed the good weather having got quite a tan. She told me to
tell you she missed your company & hopes your mummy is still improving.
I was very glad to see that you think she is looking better, dear. I
knew you could do it. Just think of how well I look with your care. I am
afraid I neglected Mother a bit tonight but I simply had to work late
dear and anyway I had arranged with Jimmie to come back before Mother
decided to stay over. I was in until about 8-45. I am afraid I exhausted
all my news in my last letter. I haven't heard anything more about the
D.P.ship except that Claude was talking to Jimmie about it & Gilchrist
thinks he shouldn't be passed over again. Mr. Scott has been very decent
really so far and Jimmie was lightly amused at his remark that if there
was anything he could do he would only be too glad. Mother was saying
that she heard Mrs. Elliott was coming back into her room but she may
have picked it up wrongly. It doesn't really matter. I was talking to
Arthur Howard for about ten minutes tonight. He is going to town too, in
about a month or six weeks time he thinks. They will probably get
accommodation in Tyrone House but Arthur couldn't be sure. Arthur
doesn't mind where he goes he says. Mr. Smythe is looking for a house in
town, already, but I think he intends keeping his Portrush one for the
summer anyway. Well, darling, it is getting rather dark and I am just a
wee bit tired, so if you'll give me ten minutes perhaps you could come
along again and tuck me in. Yes? no? I wish you could! I suppose I will
get your next letter soon & will drop you a note before the end of the
week. I do wish it were Saturday and I really was disappointed about
being so busy & not getting Saty. I suppose I could really, but you know
how it is. Tell Percy I would have enjoyed helping him to furniture
remove & if he can hold it over until I get there I would only be too
glad. (No dear, I am not just being polite). Well sweetheart this
is really all - I think I will slip out & post this even though it's
after eleven - I feel like a mouthful of fresh air before I get to bed.
So dear, all my love, & I do hope your mummy is still improving.
Remember me to everyone & I am looking forward to the weekend & you are
coming back with me aren't you? Yours, Robin x x x x x
P.S. Maybe you shouldn't keep all the references to D.P.'s, P.O.'s, S.O.
etc. or rather maybe I shouldn't make them. Love R. x x
from Dora to Robin
(I think unsent)
    
8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Sunday - My dear Robin, This is just a note to
let you know how utterly disgusted I am with you. All afternoon I expected
you would call. Every time I heard a bus stop I rushed to the window to see
if you were coming, but no, with about three hours to fill up you wouldn't
step on a bus & come & see me. At last I got tired waiting & went over to
see Elsie. I stayed about an hour & all the time I was wondering if you had
arrived (needless to say I kept my thoughts to myself). I almost ran back
from Elsie's house, thinking I would find you here, but again I was
disappointed, so now I won't see you until Wednesday at dinner time. By the
way, you are not really meant to read this, but if by any chance I should be
silly enough to show it to you, please don't laugh too much, & be sure to
burn it immediately. I hope you caught your train all right. Were you able
to deliver your parcel safely, & did your mother like your choice? I told
mummy about it & she said it was a lovely present. It is just as well that I
didn't take it home with me. We had a terrific struggle to get on the bus
which came along about ten minutes after you went for your train. Wasn't it
strange that you should know Irene Dales' boy friend? Have you played Rugby
with him, or is he from Larne (pronounced "learn")? Elsie & I have arranged
to go to Belfast tomorrow afternoon, or rather I have arranged to meet her
in town. She didn't take a whole day off. I think she was more than a little
annoyed with me for not writing to her, but you know Robin, I was too
excited to even think of writing letters. Just imagine an increment of three
shillings a week!! (you are going to marry me for my money, weren't you?) By
this time (seven o'clock) I expect you are on your way back to Portrush,
good old Portrush!! Is it very dark in the train & are there any pretty
girls in the carriage with you? On second thought, I think I'll post this
scribble to you, but you must promise to burn it. Don't burn it until
Wednesday night & I will see for myself that you have really done it. I
think perhaps, I will take it with me to Belfast tomorrow & post it there so
that Josie will not be able to put two & two together & make six. She might
tease you about it if she saw Lisburn on the postmark & I think perhaps you
have enough to put up with. Do you think I should buy your christmas present
tomorrow so that I can have Elsie's advice, I am sure she would know just
what you would like best (puss puss!!) I had better stop now as mummy wants
me to help her bake a cake. She really is slipping - baking cakes on Sunday.
She has guessed who I am writing to & thinks I am absolutely crazy, am I?
After all "I miss you most of all when day is done" Twice as much from Dora
x x
1946
 
26th November 1946 Ministry of Education, Stranmillis House, Belfast - Dear
Miss Ellis, I am in receipt of your letter of 16th November, 1946, and have
to state that your resignation from the Ministry's service with effect from
16th December, 1946, is accepted. Yours sincerely, D. Morton?
1947
   
   
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2
1) Travel Identity Card for
Great Britain, Eire and Northern Ireland - Name: Thomas R. Meharg;
Country of Residence: N. Ireland; Issued at: Belfast; Occupation: Civil
Servant; Place of Birth: Larne, Co. Antrim; Date of Birth: 18/6/1920;
Home Address: 19 St. Johns Place, Larne, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland; Date:
6/1/1947
2) Travel Identity Card for Great Britain, Eire and Northern
Ireland - Name: Miss Mary Dora Ellis; Country of Residence: N. Ireland;
Issued at: Belfast; Occupation: -; Place of Birth: Co. Antrim; Date of
Birth: 19.3.1917; Home Address: 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn, Co. Antrim;
Date: 1.1.1947
 
   
 
1
2
3
4
1) 16/1/47 - Mr. John Ellis
requests the pleasure of the Company of .... at the Marriage of
his daughter, Mary Dora, to Mr. Thomas Robinson Meharg, at Ballycairn
Presbyterian Church, Ballylesson, on Thursday, 16th January, 1947, at 2
o'clock, and afterwards at The Carlton, Belfast, 8 Llewellyn Avenue,
Lisburn. R.S.V.P.
2) Telegraph 6/2/47 - Marriage. Meharg - Ellis - January 16,
1947, at Ballycairn Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. David Hay, M.A.,
Thomas Robinson, son of the late Mr. T. Meharg and of Mrs. Meharg, 19
St. John's Place, Larne, to Mary Dora, youngest daughter of Mr. J. Ellis
and the late Mrs. Ellis, 8 Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn
3) 17th-26th January 1947 Cumberland Hotel, Marble Arch, London -
Mr. & Mrs. T. R. Meharg
4) National Registration Identity Card - Mary D. Meharg, 8
Llewellyn Avenue, Lisburn. C.O.A. Assanoe, 96 Killaughey Road,
Donaghadee. C.O.A. 369 Merville Garden Village, Belfast
    
Wedding Telegrams - Kathleen Ellis, Rob and Dinah
1949
1
1) 24th December 1949 Meharg at Mrs. Harper's Nursing Home, to Dora (nee
Ellis), wife of T. R. Meharg, 360 Merville Garden Village, Whitehouse, Co.
Antrim - a daughter (Jennifer Carol) - Dowds - December 17, 1949, at Royal
Maternity Hospital, to Betty (nee Francey), wife of Alexander Dowds, 20
Mount Street - a daughter (Carol Ann).
1952
  
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2
1) Births. Meharg - June 6th, 1952, to Dora and Robin Meharg, 369
Merville Garden Village, Whitehouse - a daughter (Christine K. S.)
2) Family Allowance 5/= 10-6-52 Jennifer C. & Christine K. S.
1955
  
Driver's Licence - Thomas R. Meharg, 369 Merville Garden Village, Whitehouse
1964
1
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1) 29th April 1964 Postmark
London to Mrs. Meharg, 19 St. Johns Place, Larne, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland
- Mount Pleasant Hotel, Calthorpe Street, Wednesday - Crossed over
yesterday evening and had a pleasant journey. Work starts today which is
nice and sunny at the moment. Love to all R.
2) 1st May 1964 Postmark London to Mrs. Meharg, 19 St. John's
Place, Larne, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland - Friday. The weather has
been very good with a fair amount of sunshine. The work finishes today
and we are returning on Sunday. Love R.
1966
Amateur Swimming Association March 1966 Christine Meharg, Bronze Award for
Proficiency in Personal Survival.
1967
1
2
3
4
5
1) 11th July 1967 Postmark
St. Andiol to Mrs. S. Meharg & Mr. & Mrs. Lilley, 90 Shanlea Drive,
Larne, Co. Antrim, Ireland Du Nord - Monday. Have had a very pleasant
trip so far and we are going on final stretch to Le Lavandou tomorrow.
Weather beautiful. The trees in the photo are laden with peaches. Hope
you are still keeping well - better than ever! Love from all R. & D.
J. & C.
2) 13th July 1967 Postmark Le Lavandou to Mrs. Meharg, c/o Mr. &
Mrs. Lilley, 90 Shanlea Drive, Larne, Co. Antrim, Irlande Du Nord -
Arrived safely up to time. The sun is really warm here and the only cool
place is the sea. The bathing is wonderful. Beach not overcrowded. We
are all well and thinking about you all. Hope you are keeping in best of
form. Love from all, R. & D. J. & C.
3) 17th July 1967 Postmark Le Lavandou to Mrs. S. Meharg, c/o
Mrs. Lilley, 90 Shanlea Drive, Larne, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland, G.B. -
Granny, Hope you are keeping better. I am finding the heat here too much
for me and I have to bathe a lot to keep cool. My face is getting
beautifully freckled but I am enjoying myself anyway. Christine
4) 19th July 1967 Postmark Le Lavandou to Mrs. Meharg, c/o Mr. &
Mrs. Lilley, 90 Shanlea Drive, Larne, Co. Antrim, Irelands Du Nord -
Tuesday. Had a nice drive to St. Tropez yesterday. This is a very
fashionable yachting centre with some very pleasant buildings and shops.
We are all well and hope that you are keeping A.1 yourself. The weather
is wonderful and we have all got nice tans. Regards to Hugh & Sal & all
the gang. Love from us all. R. & D. J. & C.
5) 23rd July 1967 Postmark Paris to Mrs. Meharg, c/o Mr. & Mrs.
Lilley, 90 Shanlea Drive, Larne, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland - Friday
22nd. We have now moved up near to Paris and will be staying for rest of
the time at Port Hardy Camp at Rambouillet near Versailles. Weather
still beautiful. We are all well & hope you are A.1. Love from all. R. &
D. J. & C.
Masonic
Services Held For Alderman Meharg - Funeral services were conducted
yesterday afternoon at the First Universalist Church for Alderman Joseph
I. Meharg, who died suddenly of a heart attack at his home, 495 Swains
Pond Avenue early Friday evening. The Rev. Leslie C. Nichols, pastor,
officiated, and the officers of the Wyoming Lodge of Masons conducted
the Masonic ritual following the services. Pall bearers included Stanley
G. Bunker, president of the Board of Aldermen, Lt. William T. Fahey,
Raymond H. Greenlaw, Chester Cummings, Fred E. Ellis, Frank E. Keniston,
George J. Robbins, Wesley H. Murray, Edward J. Wall and Joseph O'Gara.
Members of the Melrose Post, American Legion, acted as ushers and an
honor guard was present from the Legion. Representatives from the
various city departments, officers of the Melrose Lodge of Elks, friends
and associates filled the church and the beautiful floral tributes were
a mute testimony of the respect and affection in which he was held by a
large circle of friends. The officers of the American Legion, headed by
Commander George J. Robbins conducted the Legion committal services at
the Veteran's Memorial lot at Wyoming Cemetery. The services were to
have been held on Tuesday afternoon but were postponed until yesterday
when it was learned that Alderman Meharg's son, serving with the Navy,
would be able to attend. Alderman Meharg was born in Cambridge 50 years
ago, graduated from the Boston English High School and was engaged in
the heating supplies business. He was a veteran of the first World War,
having served as a lieutenant in the Army. He moved to this city 220
years ago and had served as a member of the Board of Alderman
representing Ward 7 for the past eight years. He was associated with the
Benson Coal Company as a salesman. Surviving are his parents, Joseph and
Ellen Meharg of Somerville, his wife, Mrs. Sara (Gillespie) Meharg;
three sons, all in the service, S/Sgt. Joseph in the Army in Florida;
twin sons, QPR 2/c Robert in the Navy and S/Sgt. Richard with the
Marines in California, and a daughter, Barbara, at home.
 
 
Jennifer Meharg drawings
photographs
Belfast Photographer
Larne Photographer
Boston Photographer
on back - Mary can tell you who the ones in this Bunch
1
2
3
1) To Uncle Tom & Aunt Sarah From Joe Larne Photographer
2) Belfast Photographer
3) -
1
2
3
4
5
all four photos were inside the frame
1) frame
2) Larne photographer
3) -
4) -
5) from Lilla & Hugh 10/11/1951
1
2
3
1) Bob the champ
2) I don't know if I ever sent you one of these. It is your Cousin
Frank, Uncle Franks boy
3) Joe
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