Family Celebrations
A further theme that appears consistently throughout the diaries is that of domestic celebrations. Charles seemed to have viewed these moments as fine subjects for his sketches.
Winifred has made Charles a birthday cake, the recipe coming from her copy of Mrs Beeton. Charles seems to enjoy the cake more when the recipe is read out while he is eating it.
On 17 March 1877 it was Paddy’s birthday. As part of the celebrations he was allowed to eat in the dining room with his parents, and to choose his own pudding.
Winifred and Charles’ wedding anniversary is celebrated with some of Charles’ special Madeira.
13 December 1871
Charley “going in” for a birthday spree!
Winnie – Well Charley! How do you like it?
Charley – (with his mouth full) Awfully!
Winnie – That’s right! I’m so glad! I got the receipt out of “Mrs Beeton”!
Charley – Then just give me another slice, & read me out the receipt slowly!
17 March 1877
Paddy has his dinner in the dining room and chooses his own pudding – a Plum Duff of course – thoroughly stodgy.
30 August 1877
Winnie Charley George and Donald mustered heifer paddock & put them all on camp. W & C walked up to the Nyth in aftern. & Ned and Decima came down to dinner at the Hollow to celebrate Winnie and Charley’s 7th wedding day!
‘8 Bells! Miles’s Madeira today!’
Last updated: 10th January 2008
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