Book 4

Wednesday 15^th March 1939

In evening I went to social, before that I had been looking for mum – I had her key and she had been to the hairdressers.  I left at 8 to listen to the final “Band Waggon”.  The BBC ‘best ever’ show.  Dicky and Arthur were repeating bits of the previous “Band Waggon” and they brought in all ‘Bigs’ famous sayings, “light the blue paper and retire immediately” “I don’t suppose it’ll matter” etc, and at the end they all said good bye and the finale was Dicky and Big trudging off with Basil Lucy and Lewis.

Thursday 16^th March 1939

In afternoon, while I was at school mum and dad went to Rainham to see one of dad’s customers –  I had been asked but didn’t go.  In evening Ern and I had tea.  Dad enlarged table for tennis while I went on errand.  Ern fixed up a net and then Bruce came.  Ern went to a dance at 7.30 and we played a lot of table tennis and a game of dice.

Friday 17^th March 1939

In evening I went to the ‘Greengate’ and saw “Dracula’s Daughter” and “Bride of Frankenstein” “H” films.^I

Dad brought home my new suit.  Mum said Smith had been.  In afternoon I showed my school round Lister and saw Mr Mackinnon.

Saturday 18^th March

Stopped in except for an errand and in evening I went up Queens Road with mum.

Sunday 19^th March 1939

Stopped in all day.  In evening I played cards and other games.  Dad gave me 1 of the new British stamps that had come out a couple of weeks ago.

Monday 20^th March 1939

Dad got me the other new stamp.  Stopped in and did home work.

Tuesday 21^st March 1939

Mum went out in evening and I went to music.  Came home and did homework.

Wednesday 22^nd March 1939

Jack came with his girl.

Thursday 23^rd March 1939

In evening Dad went up City and mum and I went up the Premier.  Saw Will Hay “Old Bones of the River” and a murder film.

Friday 24^th March 1939

In evening went to Social.

Saturday 25^th March 1939

Stayed in except for some errands.  Mum went to cemetery.  At library I got “Boodle” L. Charteris (The Saint Stories) and “More William” R. Crompton.

Sunday 26^th March 1939

Went to Cemetery and for walk with Smith, in evening went to his house.

Monday 27^th March 1939

Stopped in in evening except for errands.

Tuesday 28^th March 1939

Went to music in evening.

Wednesday 29^th March 1939

Mr Jewry came back to school.  In evening I went to social.  I only got a couple of games because ½ a dozen of the big ones pinched the table and we couldn’t get to it.  About 8 there was some fuss about a man that was hanging about outside, but some of us (about 4) went out and there was no one there.  Before I went to the social I went to the Post Office and they gave me 7d too much in my change.  While I was in there some kids slung a stink bomb in.

Thursday 30^th March 1939

In evening went to Premier with mum and dad.  Pretty good show up there.

Friday 31^st March 1939

Broke up.

In morning didn’t do any work had drill, watched Commerce beat Tech 10-4 at rugby.  Also Cambridge beat Oxford 12-7 at netball.

Saturday 1^st April 1939

Cambridge won boat race.  Helped mum.

Sunday 2^nd April 1939

Went to cemetery.

Monday to Thursday

Helped mum, read books, didn’t go out much.  Had these books,

By  W W Jacobs

 “Sailors’ Knots”

“Sea Urchins”

“Odd Craft” 

“A gentleman of Leisure” Wodehouse

Friday 7^th April 1939

In evening went to Central Hall to hear concert.

Saturday

Helped mum

Sunday

Stopped in

Monday 10^th April 1939

Went up City in afternoon, went for walk round then at 6 went to Hippodrome Leicester Square to see Vic Oliver^II in “Black and Blue”.  Fairly good show.

Tuesday 11^th April 1939

Went up library got “At the Earths Core” E.R. Burroughs and “The mystery of Dr Fu Manchu”  Sax  Rohmer.

Wednesday 12^th April 1939

Put up fence and creosoted it.

Thursday 13^th April 1939

Smith came in evening.

Friday 14^th April 1939 to Saturday 22^nd April 1939

Not much except that Ern was out from Monday 17^th To Saturday 22^nd with laryngitis.  On 22^nd went to cemetery with mum and Ern. 

Library  Books –

”The 4^th Plague” E Wallace

“Boodle and Return of the Saint” by L. Charteris

“Dr Sally” and “Something Fresh” PG Wodehouse and another book.

At music got a new piece.  Very good too.  Waltz medley.

Sunday 23^rd April 1939

Went for walk, met some of the boys.  In evening played games.

Monday 24^th April 1939

Went to library in evening got “Luck of the Bodkins” PG Wodehouse

“Once more the Saint” L Charteris.

Tuesday 25^th April 1939

Music in evening.  She said I am getting on very well. Walter came with Chris in evening about 9.  He said he had been listening to the budget.  Tobacco and car tax and sugar up: cinema down and other changes.  Wal said he was going to flog his car and get as much out of it as he can. 

Mr Jewry is much better than Ronkovitch for Gym.  He has the equipment out.

Wednesday 26^th April 1939

Conscription 18-21 years old 4-6 months service a year.  Semi-official but almost sure to be passed in all papers.  Bought packet of tenner’s.^III

Thursday 27^th April 1939

Went for walk in evening with dad.  Bought some sweets.  Mum has got Erns illness and has lost her voice.

Friday 28^th April 1939

Stayed in in evening.

Saturday 29^th April 1939

In afternoon I went over Prince Regent Lane grounds to play cricket with school.

Saturday 30^th April 1939

Went for walk in afternoon, it rained.  Read in evening.

Monday May 1^st 1939

Tuesday May 2^nd 1939

Lost 1 ½ d at school.  Went to music.  Miss Elson said I would probably start a new piece next week.  Went to library got “General Besserley’s Puzzle Box “ E P Oppenheim 

“The Invisible Man” H G Wells.

Ern went to Stratford Empire with some pals and got us 3 seats.

Wednesday 3^rd May 1939 

Thursday 4^th May 1939

In evening went Stratford Empire to see Arthur Askey in Band Waggon.  There were about 4 or 5 acts in first half (Arthur was one).  Then Band Waggon was on in second half.  It is a very good show.  Stinker was in it.

Friday 5^th May 1939

Stopped in in evening.

Saturday 6^th May 1939

Went to library got “Saint Overboard” Charteris

“Lord Emsworth and others“ Wodehouse

In morning went to Coates for Dad.

Sunday May 7^th 1939

Went to Mr Ody’s in afternoon with dad.

Monday May 8^th 1939

Tuesday May 9^th 1939

Music had new piece crossing hands called Melody D’Amour

Wednesday 10^th May 1939

Thursday 11^th May 1939

Went to Granada saw Music Hall top liners Kate Carney etc and “the Lady Objects” and another film.

Friday 12^th May 1939

Saturday 13^th May 1939

Played against Grafton the champions.  Beat us 78 -19.  I made 3 runs, 3^rd best score on our side.

Sunday 14^th May 1939

In morning Ern went to phone Bob.  I went with him but phone box had been jammed by a penny, so we went to the other one but there was a skirt in there fiddling about but when she had gone Ern told the operator about the jammed phone and then got on to Bobs house but he had gone, when we got home Bob had been and gone back again but he came back.  Ern gave me 3d.  in afternoon went for a walk met Tunnage smoked 2 fags each.

Monday 15^th May 1939

Tuesday 16^th May 1939

Music.  Library books for past week- 

“Odd Craft “  by Will Jacobs

“Theatre Organ” by Reginald Foort 

“The Lost World” “The Maracot Deep” both by A.C Doyle.

Wednesday 17^th May 1939

Thursday 18^th May 1939

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Got sent home for nothing.  Parkinson a twerp in afternoon.  I took my book back.  Parkinson said he wanted to see mum so she went up and I’ve got to go there tomorrow about a job.

Wrote after 2 jobs

Thursday 25^th May 1939

Dad gave me 1/- . The job was at Silvertown.  Job was no good 10/- a week.  In evening went to Granada by myself.

Friday

Saturday 27^th May 1939

In afternoon went to library with Jack.  Got “The Night Watches” by W W Jacobs and an omnibus by W W Jacobs and “A century of Humour” by  P.G. Wodehouse.

Sunday 28^th May 1939

Went to cemetery in afternoon.

Monday 29^th May 1939

Bank Holiday

In morning went to Wanstead fair with dad.  In afternoon went to West Ham park to hear band with dad. In evening went for walk with dad. Got some ices and put out a fire two little kids had started in an empty shop – they were pushing lighted paper under the door.  Later dad wrote up to Banks for one of their Gem series “Musical Medley” and their catalogue.

Tuesday 30^th May 1939

Helped mum do the spring cleaning

Wednesday 31^st May 1939

Got letter to say I am to go to 10 Drapers Gardens, Throgmorton Avenue, for an interview with Mr Barnier of May Elder & Co Solicitors tomorrow.  Helped mum spring clean.

Thursday 1^st June 1939

Postman brought my music, jolly good too but a bit hard.  Went for interview.  If I get a letter tomorrow I’ve got the job so I hope to get the letter. While I was in Throgmorton Street I only saw two top hats – worn by doormen.   In evening went to West Ham park with mum and dad to hear band – same as last Monday’s band.

Friday 2^nd June 1939

Saturday 3^rd June 1939

Sunday 4^th June 1939

Monday 5^th June 1939

Tuesday 6^th June 1939

Went up library and got a job that said applicants were to be at a place tomorrow.

Started reading folio music.

Wednesday 7^th June 1939

At 10 am got 2 more addresses. Saw mum. Went to Ibex house in the Minories first and at 10 to 11 I was ringing dad up to tell him I got the job.  There are 2 boys.  The other one started at Xmas with 13/6d p.w. in a month he was getting 15/- and now £1.  I am getting 15/- now.  Not very hard work think I’ll take it.  It’s a new firm started last September next September they are extending to the next floor.

Thursday 8^th June

Working a bit harder at work.  There are Mr White Miss Keen, Miss Bakley Mr Philo Mr Clare Mr Faddi Mr Raz Mr Gross Mr Kalman Mr Evans.  Kalman is a Hungarian.  Mr Evans is The boss and a rotter as well. Everyone else is alright. I have to go on many errands.

Dad saw Mr Tarr and got my season ticket ready.  Ern brought Bob home.

Friday 9^th June 1939

Got my season ticket.  In evening dad gave me a wallet.  Wages were 8/3d

Saturday 10^th June 1939

Had to be in at 8.30 but away at 12.30 but didn’t get away till 25 past 1.  Had bath in afternoon.  In evening Walter came then went to Dads shop for a raincoat (17/11).  then went to Odeon saw ”Topper takes a Trip” and “Strange Faces”.  Smoked 2 fags.

Sunday 11^th June 1939

Up late, in afternoon helped to clear out cupboard on landing. Library books I got on 3^rd June “A Century of Creepy Stories” “The Man Upstairs“ Wodehouse.  In evening went for a walk with Dad.

Monday 12^th June 1939

Work again, why is it we have to work? Think how nice it would be to be in the Stone age just roaming around hunting your food.  The nearest we can get to is in the jungles of other lands.  Well if I get a lot of money I will got for a trip round the world.  Work wasn’t too bad.  Had to go to the Polish Consulate.  When I got there I was told it had moved to Portland Place near the BBC.  I found it at last and are they slow? I was kept hanging about for a hell of a while but at least I saw the Consul.  He was as bad though hanging about talking.

Tuesday 13^th June 1939

Went to music.  Miss Elson had been told by mum about me starting work and she said 8 would do but could I come early next week.  I started a new piece she said I read some too easily.

Wednesday 14^th June 1939 

Thursday 15^th June 1939

Dad gave me key Ern had made for me.

Friday 16^th June 1939

Mum gave me a key ring she had got me

Saturday 17^th June 1939

I had decided to get some music at Ebblewhites but they were shut so I went to a shop in Green Street.  Got 4 Gem books @ 5d each and the man said he could get me some more by next Saturday.  Later I met Tuck and went round to his house in Western Road.

Went to library, got “Lady of the Barge” and “Short Cruises” both by WW Jacobs. Also got form to fill in for new tickets.

Sunday 18^th June 1939

Up late. Decided not to keep my 3 sixpences that are souvenirs.  Wore new suit.

Monday to Friday 30^th

Have had no time to write anything but have bought lot of music, learnt a bit at work.  Dad started his holiday.

25^th June

Went to a lot of places with mum. On 25^th we went to Southend and Ern went to Caster holiday camp and took my camera.  Had a good time at Southend.

Sat 1^st July – Friday 7^th July.

During week Mr Evans went to Budapest.  Whilst he was away got home earlier of a night. On Friday I got a new season ticket form for dad to fill in.

Saturday 8^th July 1939

White said he was going to get a loose leaf album with a lot of stamps in it for 4/- off a friend. Asked him to show it to me and if he could to get an album for me like it (they’re only 2/6), he said he would. When I got home I sorted out my stamps.

Sunday 9^th July 1939

Uncle Albert came in morning.  In afternoon finished sorting stamps.  Evening went to Odeon saw “Fire Fighters” – “Tip-off Girls”.

Mum and dad went on coach trip.

Monday 10^th July 1939

A little trouble @ work but fairly good day.  Went to library got “Money for Nothing “Wodehouse.  “Book of horrors” Wallace.  Mr Coleman came in for a while to see his dad.  Saw Whites album but I don’t think I’ll ask him to get me one.

Tuesday 11^th July 1939

Went to Chambers of Commerce & Romanian Consulate.  In evening dad brought home a box for me which I turned into a filing cabinet for my stamps.  While I was going to C of C I saw in Lime Street a stamp dealers and found they sold S.G. 5/-,  loose leaf albums for 4/- , refills 2/6 per 100 when I got home and told dad he gave me 10/- to buy one.  I’ll get it tomorrow and White said he’ll come with me.

Wednesday 12^th July 1939

Went to C of C.

From then until 23^rd July 1939 I have abandoned my Diary.  A summary is this.  I have learned some more, visited a good few places from work.  Last Sunday went to Odeon saw “Alf’s Button Afloat” with the Crazy Gang and “Rio Grande Ranger.

On Saturday 22^nd July White came and we exchanged stamps and at 8 we went to Odeon saw “Les Misérables” Fredric March, Charles Laughton and another film.  On Sunday (today) finished sorting stamps again.

23^rd July – 9^th Aug.

Not much doing .  Started new book of music.  1 Aug.  6 Aug (Sunday) went to Odeon with M&D saw Will Hay in “Hey Hey USA” and “Main Event”.  7^th Aug (Monday) went to Ally Pally with M&D.

10^th Aug – 24^th Sept 

Saw Will Hay in “Ask a Policeman”.

One day had to go to Cricklewood with a clock.

Germany started on Poland on 1 Sept.  On 3^rd we declared war on Germany at 11 am, France at 6 pm.  As war started we had a warning and after one or two more we had no more raids for about 2 or 3 weeks.

I finished with Evans on the 28^th Sept and wrote after about 7 jobs.  Went up library about 12 times got some good books including “Legion of the lost” “With the Secret Service in Morocco” “The Truth about Poison Gas” “Air Attacks on Cities” “The Truth about the Legion” “Sam the Sudden” “the Man Upstairs” and a lot of others.  Went to pictures over a dozen times up to date films seen include “Do it now” “ 4 Feathers” “ Idiots Delight” “Woman against Woman “ “Ladies in Distress” “Heritage of the Desert” “Chasing Danger” “I was a Captive of Nazi Germany” “The face at the window” “Murder in Studio X” 

Wals^IV birthday 16 Oct Ern’s birthday 4 Oct.  on Saturday got new rabbit.  On Monday got 5 more songs.

Thursday 19 October 1939

In morning I got a letter from A Dolland & Co Solicitors of 158 Bishopsgate to go for interview at 11.30.  while I was up there I got dad some port.  It’s now 3/6d per bottle.  If I get a letter on Monday it means I’ve got the job.

In evening I went to Odeon saw “Lambeth Walk” “The Flying Irishman” “Goonland”.

Friday 20^th October

Went up library in morning got “Hangman’s Holiday” “Sayers and “Sing Sing Nights” Keeler.

In evening went up Queens Road with mum.

Saturday 21^st October 1939

Went up library with Den in morning. Got “How Dare You Sir” by Noel Godber – an excellent book and I must try to get some more of his works, they are very funny and rather daring, and “Thieves Nights” by H. Keeler.  In the afternoon I went to the Carlton with Den saw “Jamaica Inn” and “Blondie Meets the Boss”. 

I’ve just thought of a couple more films I saw – they are:

“Battle of Broadway”

“Swiss Miss”

“Stagecoach”

“Woman Doctor”

“3 smart girls grow up”

“A Gentleman’s Gentleman”

“The fatal glass of beer”

“Streets of New York”

Sunday 22^nd October 1939

Got up late, dressed. About 4pm had tea then went to Odeon saw “The Hollywood Stadium Mystery” and “The Call of the Yukon”.  When I got home I got one of dads books “Valentine Vox”^V and read bits of it.

I wonder whether I’m going to get a letter from Dolland tomorrow, if I don’t I shall be broke for I don’t know how long I’ve only got about 2d left now and I want to see “The Mikado” at the Odeon this week and I want to keep up my record of going to the Odeon twice a week.  It was quite light as I walked home tonight.  The moon was out.  Coming home I was thinking of something that’s been running in my head for a long while the idea of writing a “Blackout Mystery” with a Marine murder and plenty of murders but I’m afraid I wouldn’t have the patience to write a story  – at least a long story – and a small one wouldn’t be worthwhile on a subject that worth a good strong plot. Why, if it was good enough I recon some people would be too scared to go out at night, once when I was talking to Lenny about it one night and it scarred him alright.  

There’ll probably be a revolution in Germany soon because of the way things are happening.  There’s been a lot of raids lately but all up north and along the coast and I reckon that they’ve lost a good few planes and I think the Siegfried line will be flooded if there’s much more rain in France.  “The French have retreated and left the Germans in possession of several miles of mud” said the news bulletin.  It seems funny to me that they haven’t mentioned any British soldiers fighting yet – Doris told me that the British are behind Belgium and Switzerland in case the Germans try to break through.

I’m going to make a list of authors whose books I like so far I’ve got

H. Keeler

N. Godber

A.C. Doyle

R. Crompton

E.R. Burroughs

L. Charteris

P.G. Wodehouse

H.G. Wells

E. Wallace

D. Sayers

S. Rohmer

H. Cockton

That’s a start anyway.  I think I make a list on a special piece of paper when I’ve got them all and then if I can’t find 2 books I like in the library out of them – well.

In the book “How dare You, Sir!” by Noel Godber a lot of trouble is caused by a diary of a girl in which she writes several intimate things about herself and other people and when her Aunt the Villainess gets the diary there’s trouble in store for her – but still it ends all right.  So I think I’d better keep this book and my others very carefully.

It isn’t often I write as much as this – only when I feel like it, so I don’t suppose I’ll always have such interesting episodes to read when I’m older.  But still a few good parts make up for a lot of that.  Reminds me of a joke I saw in a book up the library.

There was a farmer who had a sick cat so his wife rang up the vet who told her to “Boil up ½ a pound of Epsom salts and give her” so she did.  That evening the vet saw the farmer and said “how’s the cow” so the farmer said “That weren’t no cow but a cat, but it’s alright. She is in yonder field with 10 of her cronies 4’s digging holes, 4 ‘s filling holes and 2’s looking out for new ground.  – not a bad joke and that reminds me of a joke told last Christmas that I’ve remembered all this time because it’s so good.  There was a man who went to a dance hall and had never been to this particular dance hall before.

Book 5

And when he wanted to go to the lavatory, he went to the M.C. who told him “Upstairs on yuor left”.  So went upstairs, turned left – and found himself on the roof and he found a hole after a while he did it down that.  When he got down stairs he found the Hall empty and the M.C. walking about flicking himself so went up to him and said “Where are the dancers” so the M.C. said “never mind the dancers but wait till I get hold of the sod who shit down the fan shaft.”

Mum has been writing to Harold and she going to finish it tomorrow so that she can tell him whether I got the letter or not.  Now I’m going to read my old diaries and find the best parts.

Monday 23^rd October 1939

Up about ¼ to 9. Read papers then went on a couple of errands and brought my “Everybody’s”^VI with my last 2d.  Then went up library, got one address. Then I read again.

Further list of authors

H. Keeler Rohmer

N Godber H.Cockton

A.C. Doyle B. Perowne

R. Compton

ER Burroughs

L Chartreus

PG Wodehouse

H.G. Wells

E. Wallace

D Sayers

After dinner I wrote to this firm.  I went up library got “The Spectacles of Mr Cagliostro” and “Tiger” both by H. Keller

Tuesday 24^th October 1939

Went up J.E.B. in morning, walked there and back because I haven’t any money.  When I got back Mrs Ryder had had a load of sand and as she couldn’t get rid of it all we had some of it then I helped her – and worked up a lovely blister.  In the afternoon I went to music – Miss Elson asked me if I had any other music so I told her about my “Gem” books – but not the “new” tunes.  I had bought and she asked me to take some next time I go.

When I was coming out, she said “if ever you are home of a day come round but I suppose it’s only a lucky day now and again” so I told her about my being out of work.  When I got back I picked 9 “Gem” books to take next time.  In the evening I went to the Odeon with mum to see “The Mikado” and “Society Smugglers” intending to meet dad in there, but we didn’t see him until it was over, when it transpired he was probably sitting in the same row as us.  “The Mikado” is a wonderful film and it has got “encores” if a song has been clapped enough.  The film is shown again.  “The Mikado” was the first Gilbert and Sullivan Opera to be screened and I think it is one of the best films I have ever seen.  The Odeon has been getting some of the best films going for a long while now and there are a lot more to come.

Wednesday 25^th October 1939

Stopped in all day except for a couple of errands.  In the evening heard that butter or marg ration together would be 3ozs per week per person.

Thursday 26^th October 1939

Up late.  Mum went to meet dad and see “The Little Dog Laughed” at the Palladium. At 20 to 1 when Ern came in, I gave him his dinner then he went to sleep. In the evening we went to the Carlton and saw “Beau Geste” and “The Adventures of Jane Arden”.

When we got home mum and dad were in.

Friday 27^th October 1939

Wrote to two firms. Went up library. Got “The Mikado” Gilbert & Sullivan & “English Review Books of Short Stories” Shipp.

Saturday 28^th October 1939

Got 4 addresses to write to. Must get back this book from library “English Review book of short stories” by Shipp, I’m taking it back so that I can get a book of Schubert’s Music.

They didn’t have any of Schubert’s music thought so I got Mirth & Melody Piano Albums 1 & 2

Sunday 29^th October 1939

Got up late, stayed in all day, in evening Ern & I played cards.

Monday 30^th October 1939

Wrote to one firm went up library got “Book of Indoor Games Phillips & Westall”  “Hoyle’s Games Modernised  Dawson”.

Tuesday 31^st October 1939

Wrote to one firm.  In evening I went to music and took 9 of my Gem books.  Miss Elson gave me a manuscript book and an exercise book.  She said 3 of the books were alright.

Wednesday 1^st November 1939

In morning I went up library and got a firm in Cheapside to go to.  When I got up there the job was filled so I walked back to Ibex House and the porter took all my particulars and said he would see what could be done.  In evening played cards.

Thursday 2^nd November 1939

Went up library in morning.  In evening went to Premier with mum & dad.  Saw “Shipyard Sally” “Double Daring” “The Painter”.

List of Patience games:

Sir Tommy trans of cards

Aces get all aces at bottom of 4 columns by taking the lowest card of each suit and leaving only the highest.

Pairs lay out 4 cards if there is a pair touching lay two more and so on till you either finish the pack or get 4 rows of 4 cards take out any pair of cards touching in any way and shifting up cards.

Chinese Puzzle lay out all cards in 4 rows and put aces at the left and then shifting cards into the spaces get 4 complete laid out.  If you are stuck, you can shuffle the cards twice

Tower of Hanoi 3 columns of 5 cards make them into one column with 10 at top and 1 at bottom

Clock Patience and The Travellers both the same except in that one is laid out like a clock and in the other a square is made of the 12 packets of 4 cards each.  Then one of the 4 over is turned up and put at the bottom of the pack of the same number and the top car of this is turned up and so on.  The patient is won when all cards are in their right place and the King together.

Block Eleven 3 rows of 3 cards laid out adding to 11 covered by two more cards also if K.Q.J. turn up they are covered.  Try to get all pack on board.  If blocked on card can be dealt on packet.

Baccarat patience

As you deal out 3 rows of 3 cards if a 9 or 2 cards adding to 9 are laid, they are covered likewise if K.Q.J.10 all turn up if 3 rows of 3 cards are dealt the patience is lost.  If all cards are dealt, then they must be picked up again in 9s or K.Q.J. 10.s.

Golf Patience 7 rows of 5 cards turned up and top of next turned up and any card of next suit whether higher or lower is played on it and so on.  Nothing goes on top of a king, when stack is used up count up cards on board this is score for the hole (there are 9 holes) if stack is used up count 0 if board is used before stack count stack and subtract them from total score.

Friday 3^rd November 1939

Went to the library and got “William the Rebel” and “The luck of the Bodkins”.  In the evening mum fell over and hurt her knee coming home from Queens Road. 

Saturday 4^th November 1939

Went to Library got “William Again” R Compton and “Just William”.  Went to Odeon saw “Spy in Black” “Tomorrow at Midnight” “Point of View” “The Pointer”

Sunday 5^th November 1939

Ern got some stuff and refilled several dud batteries.  In the evening we played cards.

Monday 6^th November 1939

Went to library got “Stories for Speeches” SJ Wicks “William in Trouble. 

Tuesday 7^th November 1939

Went on errand.  When I got back Rose was there then I went to music.  When I got back, I sorted my stamps.

Wednesday 8^th November 1939

Got out my pintable.   Didn’t do much.

Thursday 9^th November 1939

In the afternoon went to the Odeon with M &D saw “Goodbye Mr Chips” which is a wonderful film and I would like to see it again.  “Clockwise” “Swing Vacation” “Donald’s Penguins”.  In the evening played dominoes.

Friday 10^th November 1939

In the evening I went to the library.  They’ve got “Goodbye Mr Chips” and “To you Mr Chips”.  I must get them.  got “William the Gangster” “More William”.

Saturday 11^th November 1939

Mum bought me a poppy but as there were no sirens very few people observed the 2 minutes silence.  Mum and I did.

In the morning a letter came from Campbell’s Soup 3 Lombard St. to go up for an interview between 9.30 – 10 o/clock on Monday.

Went up to the library got “Williams Happy Days” “William the Conqueror”.

In the evening when Ern came home, he said he was going to a party.  Just before he went, he gave me 1/- Dad gave me 3/- got my hair cut in the afternoon.  U. Albert came in evening.

Sunday 12^th November 1939

Up late read paper.  In the afternoon I pressed my trousers for the first time.  It’s easier than I thought.  Then I went for a walk. Came back had tea. Read in evening and did stamps.

Monday 13^th November 1939

Up early, when I got up to Lombard St, I saw another boy and I thought he was after the job – he got it.  There were 5 of us.  One of us came from Bromley Kent and I took home to Blackfriars S. Electric station.  Home just after 1.

In afternoon went up library.  She was up there by herself and there were some kids who wouldn’t go home when she told them too and when I was coming out, they said they were waiting for me – a crowd of dirty kids – cheeky devils.  I asked her to reserve “Goodbye Mr Chips” and “To You Mr Chips”.  She said “Goodbye Mr Chips” was in now but someone had taken it.  In evening read “The Romantic Life of Maurice Chevalier” W. Boyer and “Hitler as Frankenstein” Steel.  U Bob and Aunt Liz came to say that as John had been called up Queen and he would be getting married in about a fortnight.  Sorted stamps.

Tuesday 14^th November 1939

Went to J.E.B. in morning.  About 11 a card came to say “To You Mr Chips” was in so I took back “The Romantic Life of Maurice Chevalier” to get it.  In afternoon went to music.  & Albert came in evening.

Wednesday 15^th November 1939

Didn’t do much all day.  Sorted stamps, read.

Thursday 16^th November 1939

In the afternoon dad brought home a Directory and we made a list of about 100 Chartered Accountants that I’m going to see Monday.

Friday 17^th November 1939

Not much doing all day

Saturday 18^th November 1939

Found out that Queen is going to be married tomorrow as John has got a leave of 48 hours.  I found it out at 1 o’clock when I went round.  Went to library got “Voice of the 7 Sparrows” H.S. Keeler and “Inorganic Chemistry” TM Lowry.

Sunday 19^th November 1939

Jolly fine time at Queenies wedding.  There were about 30 of us.  Ern went in the afternoon but came back later.  Phyllis (one of the bridesmaids is jolly good but she’s 17 now).  We had a lot of tricks and games.  It was arranged that Hilda, Florrie, and some others were coming round to try our piano and hear me play because Hilda thought I was a good player.

Monday 20^th November 1939

When I went up city, I thought I was going to get a job right away but I didn’t.  I got a job anyway at a shipping office “Thurley & co”.  I have been there for Evans before. They are the best firm I’ve been with – but they’ve got a switch board that’s the drawback.

Bought a packet of U.S.A. stamps (100 for 2/-) 72 of them (about) I want.

Tuesday 21^st November 1939

Went again still alright.  In evening I went to music and she lent me a book about music to read.  I wish I could have gone up the J.E.B. this morning and told them I’ve got a job.

I suppose they’ll put down that they got me my job – still if they didn’t, I don’t suppose they’d have a job.  Last night on the train we didn’t have any lights but tonight from Mark Lane we had lights all the way to West Ham.  

Wednesday 22^nd November 1939

Work again, I got up late and had to rush but I got there before 9 and Mr Buttle – the next came in about 9.20-25.  Yesterday I asked if I could have the stamps – I can.  So I took them all. Between 12 and 1 I made a lot of calls and I am getting used to the board now.  

Mustn’t forget to find times of trains at lunchtime.

First train to stop at Plaistow after 5 is the 6.36 so that I’ll have to go and come by underground because the only train that stops at Plaistow is about 8.15-20 in the morning.  Walter came just after I got in for our ration books.  When dad got in mum brought out my present – a lovely piano stool with a roll-back so that I can keep my music in it.  And dad said he was going to give me a £1 so that with the £1 he already has and 5/- I will give him I will get 3 of the new 15/- savings certificates which are worth 17/0 in 5 years and 20/6 in 10 years.

Thursday 23^rd November 1939

Left work early (about 5) when I got in Ern was in playing the gramophone.  My nose bled 3 times in the evening at home.  Mum and dad were in about 15 minutes after me.  Ern went out later. Just after he went mum decided to lay some lino in the scullery and found the switch broken.  Still we managed to lay it with 3 candles alight.  Mum & dad went round Odeon.  I think I’ll go on Saturday afternoon.  I think I’ll go to Dr Kyndt about my nose Sunday morning.  My cards came to the office.  I bought a knife from dad for 1d.

Friday 24^th November 1939

Pay day.  19/8

Went to library got “The kidnapped Scientists” M.B Dix “Tarzan the Invincible” E R Burroughs.

Saturday 25^th November 1939

My Birthday.  Mum gave me 2/6.  I bought “William the Bad” with it, first of my library I want to get.  Went to Odeon in afternoon.  Saw “Nurse Edith Cavell” “Little Moths Big Flame” “Bulldog Drummond’s Bride”.

Sunday 26^th November 1939

In morning dad saw U.Bob.  He asked us round for the evening but I didn’t want to go, but I was glad I did in the end.  In evening Fred & Bob, 2 of Erns pals came to tea talked & played piano.  About 7 they went out, so we did too.  Round to U.Bob’s.  There were U. Bob A Liz, Queenie, Queenie and John & Phyllis Ed and Bert came in later. Phyllis is coming next Sunday to our party.

Monday 27^th November 1939

During dinner Mr Buttle and Cureton were talking about torches and when I told them about some batteries Ern got they asked me to get one for Mr B and 2 for Mr C so I rang up Ern but he was at lunch but Ern got them for me. 

Tuesday 28^th November 1939

Miss Purser wants a couple of batteries.  Ern was at lunch when I rang, and Mr Simonds forgot the message so she’ll have to wait till Thursday for her batteries.  Went to music in evening when I got back U.Bob was there to say that Hilda had gone to the piano tuner but he was ill so I went back to Miss Elson’s and she said either Evans or a place at Princess Alice so mum is going to Evans tomorrow as we got the piano there.  Miss Elson said she would get me “In a Monastery Garden” for next time.  She gave me “Christmas Eve at Dingley Dell” a piece like the one I got last Christmas.

Wednesday 29^th November 1939

Mum went to Evans about the tuner.  In evening went to Odeon saw “The Lion has Wings” “Second Fiddle”.

Thursday 30^th November 1939

Went to library got “Party Games”. Tuner came.

Friday 1^st December 1939

Saturday 2^nd December 1939

Bought a notebook in Woolworths for the party.

Sunday 3^rd December 1939

Wore new suit & overcoat.  Practised in afternoon.  Got some winkles for U. Bob.  Dad got them ready.  Doris got here first.  Suddenly there was a knock at the door and – Harold came he.  He had got a leave, so he visited us, he stopped to tea but had to go early about 6.30 because of getting back.  Ern went with him.  Next came the women then the men then Wal and Chris.  Walter brought his banjo.  As there were 4 pianists here, I didn’t play all evening.  They were Hilda, Doris, Phyllis and Queen.  Eddie and Chris have to sign up Saturday week.  Up to 6.30 it was all singing and I didn’t think much of it but then Walter had to go to the police station so Ed, Chris and I went with him.  When I got back, we had some games and the party finished about 1.  Went to bed 2.15 sleep. 

Monday 4^th December 1939

Very tired in morning.  Bought a packet of stamps.

Tuesday 5^th December 1939

When I got home a card from the library to say “Goodbye Mr Chips” was in so I got it.  Also “The Holy Terror” Charteris.  When I got back, I read and forgot music till nearly 8.  Still I went she had Monastery Garden for me.

Wednesday 6^th December 1939

In the morning a letter came for me from ‘Spicer & Pegler asking me to call for an interview about a job.  So I called there at dinnertime to thank them.  In evening I had a haircut.  Miss Purser came in early brought her little sister. Took morning off – to go shopping I suppose.  Mum got worried as I didn’t get in until 7.  Think I’ll go to Odeon tomorrow.  On train we had every light on till Bow Road.

Thursday 7^th December 1939

Foggy.  Took Titbits to work with me.  While Buttle & Purser were out Mr Cureton asked me about Evans and I told that although I didn’t remember him coming to us, I remembered him also once when he took me to Freight Express Ltd, while I was with Evans.  He told me about another Donald they had.  He didn’t post letters, nearly killed himself with an electric shock, played about with the telephone, smashed cylinders and did everything wrong that he could.  I told Mr Cureton about my letter from Spicer & Pegler and he said if they offered more money, I should have took it but I said I liked this place best.  

20 to 6 left.  When I got home, I went to the Odeon saw George Formby in “Keep your Seats Please” and “Double Crime in the Maginot Line”.  Had full lights again coming home.

Friday 8^th December 1939

Pay Day.  The only days’ work I get paid for.  I earned it as well, I was busy all day and in the afternoon I had to do some typing and so there were 3 typewriters going at once – the noise was terrible and when I answered the phone I could hardly hear what people said.  Coming home in the train I saw one of the best girls I have seen for a long time – and I see a lot now – but although we got pressed together by the crush, we didn’t get acquainted.  She was the type I like brunette – no makeup good features and form.  When I got home I went to the library got “Regent Encyclopedia of Empire Postage Stamps” & “Carry on Jeeves”.  That girl up the library seems to be taking more notice of me now.  I always go up there well dressed – still I may be imagining this – I seem to be always thinking of girls now.  Jack came later on and cleared up his debt.  Although I like him, I always have a suspicion that under dad’s instructions he took Nobby to be murdered 2 year ago last June.  That Wednesday we got the letter I shall never forget.  I was feeling happy and we were going to the caves. “Dad said I’ve got some news for you, can you stand it” I said “it will depend what kind of news it is I don’t mind good news” – then he gave me the letter and the only farewell I gave Nobby was an ordinary one before I went to school.  After losing poor Nobby I don’t think I would want another dog although U. Bob and Walter have offered us some, and that Jack’s wife is going to have a baby.

Saturday 9^th December 1939

Walter came last night for his music and banjo so I got it for him then he asked me for a lend of my new music & had a lot of fuss getting that.  Then he said it wouldn’t take them till tomorrow.  When I got in – first as usual, I did some work then went to wash and while I was out Mr Buttle came in, when I got back he was just putting on his glasses and he called me over and showed me a pair of wings.  It appears that at his home they put so much away every week and he drew £2.10/- & bought cigs, tobacco, cig papers, chocs, and chewing gum and sent them to his sons squadron (no. 11 fighter) and by return came a letter with these wings saying they were from his sons uniform and they could fly and nearly speak French, so he knew they were on his sons uniform when he was convoying troops to France. Mr Buttle also said that when his son Eric first got his wings he came home at 4 in the morning and the first thing he did was to pin his wings on his mother’s nightgown saying “When I joined up I made a vow to give my mother my wings”,   she wears them like a broach now.  Miss Purser brought up 2lbs of butter for Messrs Buttle and Cureton. 

 A few nights ago I met Chipp and Ruck coming home on the train and as I was coming up the steps of Plaistow station today I met Ruggles he works for Caters but he said that when he is 16 his brother will get him a job as a lighterman.  Talked to him for about an hour.  How many chaps can I think of: Morland, Ruggles, Chipp, Ruck, Tourzel (he got killed) Freeman (he died) Robinson & Robinson, Tuck, Smith, Philpin, Deaning, Stanton, Tunnage, Blackie, Rowley, Bashford, Burrage.

When I got home Walter had been and taken my music. Next week I’m going to ask him for it. I practised Monastery Garden ever so many times ‘couse I want to learn it for Xmas.  Went on a couple of errands, went to library got “Samuel Pepys” and “Lost Horizon” James Hilton.  Had my Bath.  Then read a bit. 

Sunday 10^th December 1939

Up about 11.30.  had breakfast, washed, dressed, practised, had dinner.  Then dad and I went for a walk round Boleyn up Green Street to Carlton then down Grosvenor Road to West Ham Lane and through park along to Pelly Bridge then dad went on home and I went to U. Bobs to see how Mrs Dobinson was.  She was expecting to be out of hospital Christmas.  Queen, Phyllis, U Bob, A Liz & Eddie were there. After a while I went out back to see Eddie & practise on his air gun. He said I’m quite good about 75% of my shots were on target.  A. Liz said she would be coming round and the others were going to see Stan Dumper off (France maybe).  Then I went on to Greengate to see what “Boy Slaves” is like (cert H) but I couldn’t get near to the box where they put the pictures as a ‘preview’. I’m going to try to find out about it.  Home. Had tea. Ern went out, read, then A Liz & U Bob came.  Stayed till about 9.30 then went. Bed about 11.30. Ern sad he saw a good jazz trumpet at £12.10/-.

I put my batteries in the oven and it exploded when U. Bob & A. Liz were here and it didn’t half explode too, it was completely emptied of its insides which were all over the oven.

Monday 11^th December 1939

I think I’ll write all dates in red so as to tell where it begins.

Everybody’s busy at work.

In evening got a train that passed Bow Road.  That meant we stayed there ½ hour and then all change.  The next train that came in filled to capacity, so everyone got in it from Bow Road to Plaistow was absolute murder and before I got out two people had one of my arms between them and 2 others my other arm then to cap the lot I put my hand on a poster that had just been put up and got my hand covered in slime.  Practised, when I got home and listened to Monday night at 8.  Bed about 10.

Tuesday 12^th December 1939

I think it would be a good idea if I got another fountain pen for red ink.  Up early (workmen are going to do my ceiling today).  Took “Lost Horizon” to work with me.  In evening went to music paid for “Monastery Garden” listened to wireless.

Wednesday 13^th December 1939

Took Lost Horizon to work with me.  While Mr Buttle and Mr Purser were at lunch Mr Cureton asked me if Ern could get more batteries for him so I rang Ern up and he got 2 while I waited “special” 7d each Mr Cureton said that would be ok. They’ve got a good phone there & could even hear the coster^VII in the street yelling. In evening I went to Odeon saw “Winter Carnival” & “What Would You Do Chums?”.  Bed about 11.

Thursday 14^th December 1939

Took Titbits to work.  Presents I’ll get, Ern, Wil 50 Cigs, 2 10d each. Dad 5 cigars 2.11d. Doris 6 hankies 3/- mum –

In evening listened to wireless. 

The Navy has got her hand on the Admiral Graf Spee (Battle ship) – she’s been driven into Montevideo Harbour.^VIII

Stopped in in evening.

Friday 15^th December 

Yesterday evening, I took home a catalogue from Barham & Marriages and dad and I made a list of the things to get. E.g. cocktail cherries, ginger, tea etc.  so dinnertime I got them.  17/3d altogether.  I got chipped a bit at the office.  Mum bought me a book like these but the fool gave her 2 cash books, so dad had them.  Also a bottle of hair cream.  In evening Ern dad and I made a list of cigs and chocs to get at Progers on Sunday.  Ern asked me to get 2 tins of tea for his pal’s mothers. Ern and I played rummy after supper I was winning wholesale and started to play so that Ern would catch up and he beat me.

My Xmas box was £2

Everyone was amazed.   I’m going to put in the bank after xmas with my other £2 and dad will give me £1.

Book 6

Saturday 16^th December 1939

Yesterday I had to go to the Coal Exchange near Billingsgate.  Phew! What a stink, but anyway while I was coming back I saw in a stationers some little cards 10 for 6d, with Xmas wishes on them and the word from_____ to enclose in gifts so when I told them they said I was to get some.  Ern also asked me to get him 2 tins of tea for his pals’ mother (he’s getting a proper Romeo he’s trying to get 5 puffs for his girls like mum got for Queenie, Phyllis, Hilda & Florrie).  And I was getting some wine for Dad so I said I would get some.  So I went round – and I couldn’t find the place – I found it eventually – closed.  I got the other things and came home.  I suppose I’ll get them Monday.  When I got home mum went out and while she was out Walter came (when I asked for my music he said “Alright you’ll get it.)  He wanted to see mum but she was out.  So he said well will you ask her ring us up and say if Doris could come over next Sunday and also what we can buy dad “We’ve got all the other gifts”.  Anyway when mum came in I told her and we went up to the telephone outside the library and rang them up.  It was arranged that Doris is to come for Dinner next Sunday and they will bring dad some cigars.  Afterwards bathed and listened to Garrison Theatre.

Sunday 17^th December 1939

Up 10am. Ern & I were supposed to be going to Prager’s this morning but he simply wouldn’t get up until about 12.30 and we got there about 1.15.  After we got home we found we had bought 400 cigarettes (app). 7 boxes of sweets & packets of razor blades.  I had bought 150 cigarettes, 50 dad, 50 Ern) Walter and 1 box chocs Doris.  (I’ve decided to buy mum her tea).  But coming home Ern said he couldn’t think of anything for mum so we decided to buy the tea between us.  After dinner we sorted things out & it was decided I should go back for 4 boxes of Chocs 1 rose bowl (filled with Chocs) & 1 box of cigars we were shown.  In the evening I sorted my stamps. Went for a walk with dad in afternoon. Met Bruce from Lister.  He is working at a printing firm in Fleet Street.   He thinks Eddie got a job. Stavely was evacuated.

Monday 18^th December 1939

Up late work 9.10.

GRAF SPEE BLEW HERSELF UP TO AVOID CAPTURE. ONE RAIDER LESS.

In my dinnertime I got 3 packets of cards.  Coming back I saw a man with a pet monkey and it chased some girls.  Did they run.  He made it jump onto a car and it played about for a long while.

In the evening I went to the Odeon saw “Cheer boys Cheer” & “Soldiers of the King”.

When I got back Ern was doing up his parcels – he got his puffs.  Also some boxes to put them in.  so I did up my parcels.  The underground was 41 years old today – and the first station is being made into an A.R.P. shelter.

Tuesday 19^th December 1939

About 7 I woke up and heard voices – it was Ern fully dressed.  He said he had woken up and as he couldn’t sleep he got dressed.  So I got up and he lit the fire and I made tea.  Yesterday I saw a Cyclists Diary in a shop window so I asked Ern if he would like one, he said yes so I got him one when I got out of the train.  1/6d. but I’m going to give it to him.  I still haven’t got a couple cheap diaries for Dad & I – there’s plenty of dear ones but if I got these it wouldn’t seem as if it were for dad.  

Big air battle over N. Sea we lost 7 they lost 12.  After lunch I went on to Tower Hill and listened to the orators, there was one disclaiming the “conchies”^IX  another preaching the S.A.  2 peanut merchants and a chap who was selling trick machines to print 10/- notes.  The machines cost 1/- each. I’ll see if dad thinks they’re worth getting.

Memo: I’m never going to get up so early again as I did this morning – everything’s going wrong after 3.

Finished about 5.30, when I got home I went to music, she said I needn’t come next week except for a piece of music she has. Then U. Bob came round. It was decided they would come round Xmas day we would go there Boxing day.  Afterwards we did the remaining parcels up. At work I met one of the chaps from Lister but it was only while we were in the lift we could talk.  Went to bed about 12 as I had waited for Ern so as to give him his diary – but I didn’t see him.  Dad said “don’t get one of those mint machines”.  Read my old diaries.

Wednesday 20^th December 1939

Up 8.10 gave Ern his diary, he was very pleased with it.  Had to go to Westminster Bank Old St for Mr Thurley to get a parcel from Mr Cole.  When I got back I saw that chap from Lister again (I wish I knew his name) and while we were talking Mr Gross walked in, I followed him to see if he came to Thurley’s but he didn’t.  Afterwards Mr Buttle asked me to go to the bank and get 2/6 of new copper. Mr Thurley got two parcels and he did them up into Xmas boxes for different people he gave Miss Purser a box of chocs. Dad had asked Mr White if he had a 10d stamp in his collection (I only want that for myself) and he says that he will probably look for one over the Xmas holidays.

Thursday 21^st December 1939

At 4.30 this afternoon I can say that I left school over a year ago.  Plenty of things have happened since then, I’ve have 3 jobs and spent 2 terms at a day continuation school.  I’ve grown about 5 inches.  This morning I took Titbits to work.

Captain Innes came in.  I had to go to Taylor & Becketts for some brown paper and string. While at lunch I saw a man on Tower Hill selling patent tie adjusters and collar stiffener, as they seemed quite good I got one of each – they only knocked me back 9d.  when I got back I put on the tie adjuster and its jolly good.  (I wonder what dad will say).  

Went to library in evening, got “Mr Deeds Goes to Town” and “Thank You Jeeves” PG Wodehouse.  When I showed the things to Dad he said they were alright.  Ern asked me to get him a tie adjuster.  If I’m off Saturday I will go there in the morning.  Ern also asked me to go to his shop in the afternoon.

Friday 22^nd December 1939

I forgot that Everybody and The Leader were coming out today and I didn’t see them till I got to the City.  I had to go to the bank and the clerk said he had already paid out as much as he usually does all day Friday.  That was at 11.45am.  I said I thought this was because of the Xmas bonuses.  He said it was quite probable.  In my dinner hour I got 6 mince pies and 1 chocolate Kup Kake (for Mr Cureton) that we could have to make it seem Xmassy.  

We decided to have tea early so that Mr Cureton who is going to Newport at 3 could have something to eat.  But Simpson and Shirley didn’t get back till 3.20 so Mr Cureton caught the 5.55 train.  Before I went home I asked if I would have to come in tomorrow and it was decided that Miss Purser, myself, and Mr Simpson would be in.  I forgot that Everybody was coming out today so I got it in the evening.

Saturday 23^rd December 1939

Up there at 9.  Miss Purser 20 to 10 Mr Simpson 10.20.  finished 12.20.  When I got home I wasted an hour out but the shop was crowded so I left it.  Got to Ern’s shop at about 2.15.  The kid they’ve got there is a decent chap, he wanted a city job but when the war started he got this job.  Got 5/- and a handful of balloons.  Home at about 10.30. on the tram coming home a drunk got on and started saying “he’d done his bit in the last war and he’d do it again if they’d give him his sergeants stripes back “and ”he always packed up drinking when he had had enough”. When he got off he shook hands with us all. 

After mum and dad had gone to bed I had my bath.  Bed about 12.

Sunday 24^th December 1939

Up about 10.  Ern wouldn’t get up to help me with the decorations so I did them myself.  Doris came about 1. Ern still wasn’t up so she went and dragged him out (she was the one who finally made him wash). When dad came in after going to the ‘Vic’ he said that the Turners would be coming in the evening.  Walter came about 4 and had tea.  The Turners came about 5.30.  There was A Liz, Queenie, Phyllis, Hilda, U Bob and Eddie.  Doris & Wal went about 7.  We packed up about 1am.

Xmas Day – Monday 25 December 1939

Up about 11, Ern was even later.  Hilda can’t come today.  The Turners came about 4.30.  there were A Liz, Phyllis, Queenie and U bob and Eddie.  We had a jolly good time, once when I had been teasing Phyl she fell over while chasing me and at last everything I did she was watching me.  About 1 in the morning Queenie and she were having a fight with the boxing gloves on we finished about 3.

Boxing Day – Tuesday 26^th December 1939

Up about 12.  Harold came about 12.30.  Ern came down just before dinner.  (Harold stayed to dinner and it was decided he should come round to Turners in the evening.  We got there at 4.35 but Hilda wasn’t there so mum and Mrs Dumper (who was also there) went round to her house and was told she was ill.  Altogether there were U Bob, A Liz, Phyl, Queenie, Eddie, Ern Mum, Dad, me and Mrs Dumper & Harold.  We had some decent games and Phyllis was made the mug every time – the same as Sunday & yesterday.  We packed up about 11.30.

Wal had left his music at home since Monday so I borrowed the case for my music.

Mrs Dumper said that one of her relatives was the verger at St Olave’s Hart Street and could tell me (if I saw him) why they have 5 skulls over one gate.  She described him to me.

Wednesday 27^th December 1939 

Work again.  In the morning I had to go to L G Sloan’s in Kingsway to get a new fountain pen nib for Mr Collins.  While at lunch I bought 2 comm. labels & a packet of stamps.  While walking along I saw a chap selling 1940 Mazawattee diaries 3p each so I got 2.  

In the evening I went to the pictures, saw “Big Town Czar”  & “The Under-pup” in which 11 year old Gloria Jean has her first part.  She is a wonderful singer – nearly as good as Deanna Durbin.

Thursday 28^th December 1939

Snowed in the morning – just like winter now – but I’d rather not have snow.  When I got home I sorted my stamps.

Friday 29^th December 1939

I took up my £5 and in dinner time I went to Fenchurch Street P.O. and joined the bank.

Saturday 30^th and Sunday 31^st December 1939

Yesterday I went to dad’s shop bought a hat.  Went to library got “Whit Kings 1940 Catalogue” & “Flying Palatine”.

Today I got up late.  In the afternoon I went to Mr Odys for dad, in the evening I sorted my stamps. bed about 11.15.

1940

1^st January 1940

I saw the New Year in in bed.  Up about 8.5.  fairly busy.^X  Home about 6.25.  Stratton was here when I got home.  Then I went to Odeon saw “What a Life” & George Formby in “Come on George”.

Tuesday 2^nd January 1940

Up 8.10 work about 9.  Started the new files today.  Yesterday I took down most of the old files but there were a few more to take down today.  In the evening I went to music.  Got a piece called Moonglow – another one like I usually get.  Next time she gives me one I’m going to ask for some of the more modern pieces.

Wednesday 3^rd January 1940

(I nearly put 1939)

Took up my library book to work.  Had lunch in Milk Bar. In the evening I sorted out my stamps.

Thursday 4^th January 1940

Took Tit-Bits to work.  We used up the last page of the Bank Book and I had to stamp our name on every page of the new one – some job.  When I got home mum and dad went to the Broadway to see “The Frozen Limits” & “Come on George”.  I sorted stamps, read and listened to wireless. Bed 11.30.  we decided to go to Coliseum on 25^th Dad will book seats tomorrow.

Friday 5^th January 1940

In the morning I bought some stamps – cost me 1.5.1/2 for 5 but I think it nearly completes a set I was lucky to get them – I had to get to the bank for Mr Simpson but the bank wasn’t open so I went to look at a stamp shop nearby and saw the stamps.  In the evening I sorted stamps.

Saturday 6^th January 1940

After I had finished work I went to Gordon Rhodes and got some mounts but he didn’t have a watermark detector but said that any shiny black surface would do.  I also got some benzine from a chemist.

When Walter came he brought me 4 lb of sugar for the office.  Stopped in all rest of the day.

Sunday 7^th January 1940

Up about 12.  In afternoon went for walk and outside the Odeon I met one of the chaps from Lister and 2 of his pals.  Went for a walk round and found that the night schools are opening on Wednesday so me and this chap are going to join tomorrow.  We arranged to meet at Greengate at 3.15 and go to Granada saw “Cipher Bureau”. I’ve seen it before, but it was jolly good and the Ritz Bros in “The 3 Musketeers “ jolly good.  I think I’ll get some of Dumas’, books from library.

There was also Boyd Oxford at the organ – he was excellent – he made up some parody verses on “How Ashamed I Was” – and were they good.  When we went out we walked to Greengate – hung about for about ½ hour.  When I was coming home down Stirling Road a young woman came up to me and asked me how to get to Northern Road, so I told her and left her at Southern Road. – I wonder if that was all she wanted.

Monday 8^th January 1940

Up 10 to 8

Before I went in I bought some stamps knocked me back 1/6d.  In at 10 to 9.  Before anyone else got in I had opened the post, cleared rollers, done filing and almost finished post book.  Mr Cureton who was in first had forgotten his handkerchief, so asked me to get one just as I was going Mr Buttle came in and his collar had broken so he got me to get him another.  When I got home I went to library took back “Flying Palatine” & “Mr Mulliner Speaking” Wodehouse.  Then I went to Balham Street School, met Williams and we went in and enrolled ourselves.  Met Blake and Burridge there.  

Mr Jeremy and Miss Langtree were there.  I’m doing shorthand Monday, typing Wednesday, and book keeping Friday.  I had to take my form to Mr Jeremy and he persuaded me to give him a half promise to turn up on Tuesday for P.T.

Then we went round to Williams house and he showed me his stamps.  So then he brought them round home and I gave him some stamps and it was arranged he should look through his other stamps before Thursday and on Thursday he would call for me about 6.30 and we shall go round the Odeon and arrange some time when we can see each other’s stamps again.  He left about ¼ to 9.  Bed about 11.  Ern came in about 12 so I went down to see hm.  He said that Dicky (who’s in the Air Force) might be coming for the night but he didn’t come.  Ern said he was thinking of joining up so I told him about Mr Shirley giving me a 3-colour pencil because he can’t get lead for it.  Ern said he would see if he could get any leads but anyway there is a bit of red in it and I have some black lead that fits it so I think it will be ok.

Tuesday 9^th January 1940

Took “Mr Mulliner” to work.  In the evening, I went to music and saw Blake and Robinson – with a girl as usual.  You’ll find them petting every night and Blake promised to call me at a quarter to 7 tomorrow night.  Paid for the piece of music I started last week.  Went I got back sorted stamps.

Wednesday 10^th January 1940

Up 5 to 8 before I went to work I finished “Mr Mulliner Speaking”.  Went up to wake Ern and asked him if he could get any leads but he hadn’t.  Still I might try to get some.

Today is a 100 years of 1d post – a great occasion. On the wireless in “The World Goes By” a man spoke about the inauguration in 1840. In the evening I went to Balaam Street and found typewriting was to be at Lister, so I went there, arrived about 7.5 but it didn’t start until 7.15.  there were 8 of us altogether & I knew 2 of them Randall who was at Cave with me & Joyce Carter who used to be at Lister.  She’s at work now.  I hope she is taking the same classes as me.  2 of us there had done some typing so the teacher asked us to make copies of some letter for him. 

When I got home Ern was in so I asked him if he knew anyone who would like to buy my 3 colour Pencil. He said he would but I told him I could get 4 colour ones for 2/6so he said he would take it with him tomorrow to work and try to sell it.

Thursday 11^th January 1940

Up 8.15.  woke up Ern left about 8.35.  work 9.5.  In dinnertime, I bought a 4-colour pencil.  Jolly good value – refills are 6d each and besides the leads already in I found I had 2 lots of refills.  Home about 6.  Dad had been to Coliseum but couldn’t get in.

Williams came about 6.25 and we went in the films at 6.45.  Saw “Young Man’s Fancy” and “Professor Mamlock”.^XI  When we came out I walked to Greengate with William and he said he would call for me on Saturday at 3.  So I want my bath as soon as I get home Saturday.

When I got home Ern was in, so I showed him my pencil and gave him the other. Bed about 12.

Friday 12^th January 1940

Went to Night School in evening I was supposed to be doing Book Keeping but the lessons have been changed round and I do it on Monday and tonight, shorthand.  Met another chap I knew there and Charlie Patterson.  Came home with Patterson.  Bed about 12.

Saturday 13^th January 1940

Took Ern’s pencil to work to get him some leads but I didn’t have time so I’ll get them Monday.  Williams came for me about 3, and we went round to Dads shop so that I could try on a suit, but it was crowded so I told Dad I would be coming back later on.  Then we went to library I got the catalogue out again and “A Century of Ghost Stories”. 

In the evening I went to dads shop with Wells & then we went to the Premier saw “Where’s that Fire” with Will Hay & Co. & “The Spellbinder “. Bed about 11.30.

Sunday 14^th January 1940

Up at about 12. Bathed in afternoon went to Wills’ house at about 5.  We left his house after 7 went for a long walk. We didn’t have any luck thought.  Home about 10 bed about 10.45.

Monday 15^th January 1940

During lunch I went to a stationers about those leads and he said if I left the pencil he might have them tomorrow.  When I got home I went to night school.  I’m starting Book Keeping again. Went with Wells.  Home about 10.45.  Ern said Walter had been to his shop & asked him to go to a party next Sunday at the shop. Ern suggested bringing his pals home for tea and going to the shop afterwards he asked the (older ones) for the week after.  I suppose they’d be mum and dad, Mr & Mrs Keyes & me – why wasn’t I asked with the younger ones, does he think I’m a kid still.  I don’t think I’ll go, but go out with Wills that night. 

When mum & dad had gone to bed Ern started to give me some advice on how to behave! “because I rather like one of the girls”.   I think I’ll go if that’s the way they think of me & be rid of the whole crowd of them.  Wells is worth more than the whole lot put together.

Tuesday 16^th January 1940

Went to music in evening. Got “For an 18^th Century Dining Room”.  Miss Elsom said it was very nice and said the original was by Mozart (which I already knew).  I bought it yesterday when Miss Purser saw it she wanted to copy the words and then we all got talking and I promised to let her copy the words of Lebensraum so I took it up today.  When I got home about 15 mins to 8 I decided not to go out & see Wells.

Jack Parker came, stayed till about 10, he’s got his teeth now.

Wednesday 17^th January 1940

In the morning, Mum & Dads teeth were frozen.

The train was very crowded both ways today.

There were 4 girls crowded next to me, one of them is very good looking – & she’s the one that doesn’t get out at Mark Lane, from what they were saying she gets out at the Angel.

In the evening, I went to night school there were a lot of us there tonight but we still couldn’t use the typewriting room as it had not been blacked out.  When  I came out Wells wasn’t there so I went to his house, his mother said he had gone to the Granada (I suppose he’s mad because I didn’t see him last night) so I made my excuses and said I would call round tomorrow abut 6.30.  Bed about 11.

Thursday 18^th January 1940

I saw that girl again today – we went down the steps almost side by side – and then she has to sit down some distance from me.

This morning I found a cascade of water coming down from the roof so I told the liftman and he said the tank had overflowed and spilled out – I recon I’ve saved the A.L.P. some money.

In the evening we had nearly finished except for about 3 letters to come out, when one of Mr Simpsons “friends” came – Mr Gibson – the little squirt – and wasted 20 minutes of our time. – then the first train in was a circle, so I got home at 6.30 – when I was supposed to be at Wells house.  I just rushed and had a wash while Ern got my dinner out – Mum & Dad had gone to the Granada – gave Ern his pencils & leads – I managed to get the last tube at Hughes in Fenchurch Street, 4 of each colour 1/- per tube. – ate my dinner & went to Wells house.  He was all ready and we went to the Odeon saw “Inspector Hornleigh on Holiday” “Quick Millions” “Father Thames” & “The Man with the Jaundiced Eye”.  Wells came home with me and we are going next Saturday evening.

Friday 19^th January 1940

So cold in the morning that Mum and Dad’s teeth were frozen in.

Pay day.

In evening went to night school & got my shorthand instructions & note book. 4/- the 2.  When to library got “Indiscretions of Archie” P.G. Wodehouse & “Mystery Stories“by Quiller Couch.

Saturday 20^th January 1940

Got a slight cold.  Took the empty bottle with me to get some port for Dad, but they shut at 1 now, I think I got there 5 past. 

Just after I got home Walter came and he mentioned there would be a party for the older ones and mum said she and dad would not be there and besides I was not an old one.  So Walter said Ern said I always went out with my friends – so if it is Ern who put the lid on me going after the way I rushed about getting leads for his pencil – well I don’t know what to say.  

Mum went out so I had my bath and at 5.30 I went to Wells’ house.  His aunt & uncle were there.  We went about 7.  Went all over the place – Beckton Road – Stratford – Wanstead Flats.  Home about 9.30.  Listened to “Ukridge” by P.G. Wodehouse on radio at 10.30 then went to bed.

Sunday 21^st January 1940

Up about 12.  After we had used up the water in the cistern there was no more until a water man came round and told us a pump had been fixed up the road.  So Ern & Mum went & filled up the copper and some pails and jerry’s.  He said he would be round again at 3.  We were all ready by 2.30 but Ern’s pals came at 4.45.  While we were waiting, once Ern started on me about behaving myself.  So I told him off about it.  There were 5 coming but one of the girls was ill so her boy stayed with her so there was Ted, Hilda & Violet.  Hilda is one of those artificial blondes and she’s common & cheap and I’m surprised at Ern getting with her, but Violet she’s a very nice girl – brunette as well, I hope she’s the one Ern likes and I think she is and she’s the kind of girl I’d like for a sister-in-law.  

Wells came about 6.30 so we went in the front room.  With the rest and Violet and Hilda got me to play and then wouldn’t go till I’d finished as Dad said there aren’t many girls like that and one of them might say something about me and show Ern where he gets off.  In fact Dad called me the hero of the evening.  They left about 7.30.  Wells had to be home at 9.30 so he left early.

Monday 22^nd January 1940

My cold was worse when I got up and of course at work they all asked me if I had a cold.  Bought my “Everybody’s”.  In the evening I went to night school for bookkeeping.  Wells called for me.  I got my journal and ledger tonight @ 3d each.  I got my new season ticket.

Tuesday 23^rd January 1940

My cold seemed a bit better when I got up.  Got Dad his port in dinnertime.  In the evening I went to music. Got “Musical Switch” it’s about the best piece I’ve so far had. There’s a bit of the tune I like “Down South” in it and the tune I heard on the wireless, Sunday that had it in was “American Suite”.  I think I’ll try and get it.  When I went to work I posted the letter to the Coliseum.  So, we ought to get the tickets soon.  When I got home I did some homework but I gave it up after a while as I didn’t feel well.  On Mark Lane Station I met Eric Kemfry (or was it Cyril – I never know the 2 of them apart).

Wednesday 24^th January 1940

On Plaistow station I met Peter Emanuel.  His going to come round on Saturday to change stamps.  As I passed the Post Office coming home I saw in the window “Platinum pen nibs 3d each” so I bought one.  They are easy to fit in and I’m using the new nib now.  Mum is going to get me 2 more & 1 for Dad.  I went to typewriting at Lister at 7.  We’ve got the typing room now – it’s been blacked out properly. 

Thursday 25^th January 1940

Took Titbits to work.  Simpson & Thurley went to Philpot’s office in the afternoon and we didn’t get away till 6.5.  When I got home mum was in but dad was at Ridbells.  About 7.15 I was looking out for Wells – he was nearly ½ hour late when dad came in and behind and through him I saw Wells.  So I called out, but it was Smith – he’s still with the Daily Mirror but in another part and he wants to learn photography so he’s going to night school so he is coming for me tomorrow and we are going to night school.  Just before he left Wells came. We went to the Odeon and saw “The Man in the Iron Mask” “Wanders of the Desert” and “Full speed ahead”.  I really must read Dumas books now.

Book 7

Friday 26^th January 1940

Mr Simpson caught this Spanish Flu that’s going around and didn’t come in, that made Miss Purser become a proper little squirt – going round with the Sanitor and spraying all the phones.  In the evening I did a very brave thing – I went and bought her one of those rain hats because she didn’t want to get her hair wet.  I rushed in the shop got it and rushed out again.  In the evening Smith called for me and we went to night school.  He’s doing science Monday Typing Wednesday and shorthand Friday.

Saturday 27^th January 1940

Mr Thurley was already in when I got in.  Mr Buttle was out as well – Mrs Buttle rang up and told us so there was only Mr Thurley, Mr Cureton, Miss Purser and myself in.  First thing in the morning Mr Thurley dictated a cylinder and he didn’t have the needle down so there was nothing on it.

When I got home I sorted my stamps and Emanuel didn’t come.  After tea I had my hair cut and went to the library, I got “Love & Laughter” and “A Hundred Years of Postage Stamps.”  Just as I was getting in the bath Wells came round so I am going round his house tomorrow.

Sunday 28^th January 1940

Up about 11.  Snow was about 6 inches to a foot thick and higher where it had drifted.  In the afternoon I went to Wells house but he and his sister had gone to their aunts and had not come back so I waited for about 3 minutes and they came in after he had had his dinner we went right to Woolwich and over the ferry.  In the evening we went to Barking but we didn’t have any luck so we came back. When I got in my trousers were wet so when Mum and dad were in bed I hung them over a chair to dry.  When Ern saw them he said they were in a worse state that his and he had been further and done more walking than we had.  So I asked him where he had been to, he said Stepney.  I didn’t enlighten him as to how far I had been.

Monday 29^th January 1940

When I got up I saw more snow than I have ever seen before.  It was a foot think in the shallowest part and it was about 3 feet or more where it had drifted.  I borrowed Ern’s galoshes’ as he would be wearing his wellingtons.  When I got out of the gate I had to walk to Southern Road before I could cross, and it took me an hour to get to work.  I got in at 20 to 10.  Everyone except Mr Willis came in, but he was frozen in and was staying at Amersham.   Home before 6.  Wells came about 7.5 and we went to night school.  I’ve got a nice little lot of shorthand and book-keeping waiting for me now.  As I was coming away I met Miss Purser.  

When I got home I sorted my stamps.

Tuesday 30^th January 1940

Up about 8.15.  Work 9.15.  in the afternoon Miss Purser said she had dropped her gas mask so Mr Buttle (he’s an expert with masks) told her to put it on.  When she had it on Mr Cureton made fun of her so she went for him.  Mr Buttle said her mask was alright and then Mr Cureton requested she went into Mr Collins and said “Boo!”  So she crept in and all of a sudden there was a loud ‘Ooh’ and she came out with Mr Collins both of them roaring with laughter.  Mr Collins had been sitting by the corner of his table so Miss Purser sat down next to him and waited for him to see her.  Mr Coverton was trying his mask on and the phone went and he was going to answer it.  Mr Buttle got back early from his dinner and him, Mr Coverton and I were all talking.  Mr Buttle had his back to the window and all of a sudden a fall of snow came from the roof, Mr Coverton and I both pointed and said “look!” and Mr Butler dropped to his knees and I believed he thought someone was after him.  Then it just happened again, everybody has looked up and Mr Buttle said he will be all nerves if it happens much more.

In the evening I went to music.  Miss Elson’s going to try and get me that American suite that was on the wireless last Sunday.  When I got home I did some homework.  At 9.30 till 10.15 there was a programme about George Gershwin 1898-1937.  He was a wonderful composer his rhapsody in Blue and piano concerto are marvellous pieces of music and he even wrote an opera – a man who wrote some of the best jazz ever.  I don’t think there has ever been another person who can combine Jazz and classical music as he did in “Rhapsody in Blue”.  I think I’ll try to get it.  It’s a great pity he died so young – 39 he was.  Schubert was another genius who died young 28 he was.

Gershwin died on July 11^th 1937 at Hollywood and I think I’ll get a book about him from the library if they have one there.

Wednesday 31^st January 1940

In the tram coming to work my nose started bleeding and it was misery until about 11 when it finally stopped dripping.  In the evening I went to typing at Lister.  Just before I finished I saw in the book I was working from some figures showing how sums of money double themselves in S.1 and C.1 so I copied them because I wanted to find them for a long time.

Thursday 1^st February 1940

I do get some nice jobs, this morning I had to mend Simpson Oil Stove and did I get my hand mucked up.  In the evening I went to the Odeon with Wells and saw “Husbands or Lovers” and “An Englishman’s Home”.  2 very good films and in an Englishman’s Home it shows what would really happen – having to bomb and kill your own friends and relatives so as to kill your enemies – very realistic.  When I got in mum was in bed and dad went up soon after so I had my supper and went to bed about ¼ to ten.

Friday 2^nd February 1940

This morning I had to get to Bow Lane with a fur coat for Mrs Simpsons.  It had to be repaired.  I wish someone would pass a law against the importing of furs.  They say England is a country of animal lovers, but while people skin animals while they are alive so that a few daft, mad, silly woman can swank about “their fur coats 250 guinea you know”  to their friends.  You can never say England is a country of animal lovers.  

When I got back I went to the P.O. and paid 2/- into my account.

During dinner time I went to Ebblewhites and bought “Scatter-brain”.  As soon as Miss Purser saw it she wanted to copy the words.  Mr Buttle thought it a very nice piece.  In the evening I went to Night School.

Saturday 3^rd February 1940

Got to work late.  Home just after 1.

Had my bath in the afternoon and in the evening I called for Wells and we went to Dr Kyndt.  I have to get some medicine, lotion and cotton wool.  I got them at Pattern.  Then we went to Walters, we got there just after 8 and he gave me Ern’s gloves and the ration books.  Doris was not in, seems that Rose was ill with pleurisy (whosever Rose is) and Doris was with her and he was waiting for her to phone up. While we were waiting, he got his banjo and we played some tunes.  He’s got Scatterbrain as well.  But Doris didn’t ring so we all left together about 20 past 9. 

Diana’s one puppy that is left – Peter they call it- is a lovely little thing, just like a tiny black bear. 

My medicine hasn’t got a bad taste when you first drink it but it makes all your mouth go dry and then you get an horrible taste in your mouth.  Bed about 11.

Sunday 4^th February 1940.

Up about 12.  In the afternoon, I went round to U Bobs with some boot-boxes for Queen to pack John’s parcels in, but she was in bed ill.  Ed passed his examination A.1. Bert A.2. U. Bob gave me some paint for the kerbs he said he had promised it to dad.  Fred called for me at 4.30 and we went round to his house.  After tea, we went out. We went right over Woolwich Ferry and then we went back to his house, then out again.  Then we went back until his mum, and dad came in about 10.  Then I went home.  I’m, going to book up from, work tomorrow for the 23^rd of March for the Victory Palace.  I shall take some paper and stuff with me. 

Monday 5^th February 1940.

In the morning dad said that “Me and My Girl” is ending on the 17^th Feb. So I didn’t bother to take up any paper, but Fred rang me up & we decided to go to any performance, Saturday or Thursday.  So when I went to the post office I rang up dad and he will book up dinnertime. When I got home I went to night school & called for Wells on my way.  I lent Miss Purser my torch and she said she would give it me at night school but I didn’t bother to wait for it.  While we were going home Wells said he wanted to see Haw Haw at the Holborn Empire and Black Velvet at the Hippodrome.  When we got home I showed him,  the letter and then he left.  This morning I was so interested in Everybody’s that I went on to Monument, and it was funny because in Everybody’s they had reviewed an old poster of 2 or 3 years ago which said “Oh Mr Porter,. What can I do, I was reading Everybody’s & got taken on to Crewe” a parody on the once famous song.

Tuesday 6^th February 1940.

Aren’t I a mug. When I went to music this evening we were talking about some music I wanted, and I wondered why Miss Elson, was hanging about but I didn’t realise till sometime after I had got home —————-I hadn’t paid her so mum, is going round there tomorrow.  I could have got home before 6 this evening if Simpson hadn’t made Mr Cureton & I wait for a call from, Philpot so he could add a p.s. to one letter.  I had what I wanted when I got home, 4 pancakes.  I would have had some at the milk bar if they had had them, but they didn’t.  When I got home from, work the tickets were there BN20 & 21 and dad looked it up and they were exactly the same as the ones I had before when I booked up with White.

There still are some polite people about.  This morning at Gibson’s on the other side of the corridor. A Breton sailor called and before going in he took off his boots.  It’s a custom, over there.

Wednesday 7^th February 1940.

This morning I went to work in my raincoat as dad is taking my overcoat to work to be altered.  When Mr Buttle came in I asked if I could use the phone.  I rang up Wells & he is coming to see me tonight at 9.30.  went to night schools in the evening.  Dad brought my coat,. Its lovely now.  When I got home from school Doris was there.  Ern was in and he was making some batteries.  So when Fred came we made our arrangements.  He’s going to meet me at Mark Lane about 7 tomorrow and then we started talking about electricity.  Doris went about 9.  I think we’re going to make batteries to sell if Fred can get some more chemicals for us.  Bed about 11.30.

Thursday 8^th February 1940.

In the morning I went to Moorgate.  I had to go to Taylor & Becketts so I asked about those envelopes we want, they are 12/6d per 1000.  Because I didn’t want to finish this Thursday till about 6, old Simpson went out to a meeting & we could have all gone home about 5.  But as Mr Buttle was staying in case a phone call came through I waited as well.  We got away about 5.30.  I suppose next Thursday when I’m going to the pictures I shan’t finish till about 6.  While we were waiting we were talking about days when he was about 18.  He had 5 dogs and one of them, helped to catch a burglar – it was like this – he and his mother had been out & coming back a tramp accosted them, & when he used bad language & began to threaten them, he whistled his dog – a bull terrier he called it Crab.  So this dog chased him, into an old stable and kept guard until they were a long way away.  When they got home they told his father who said “I think that’s the man they want for burglary”.  So the cops came round with a cart and the senior Mr Buttle, a plain clothes cop and the dog went after them, and this dog captured him.  He got a free dinner from the police for it.  Another time he brought a Boar Hound in Hamburg and when he got home he tied it to a leg of the kitchen table and this dog went for a walk round the kitchen and broke nearly everything up with the table he was dragging, So I told him, about Nobby.^XII

When we left I went to the milk bar and then I went on the station .  He arrived at 6.30.  His dad said he had better leave early or he wouldn’t get there in time, so we walked around for nearly an hour before we could get in.  We went in about 10 minutes before the show opened.  It’s a marvellous show and even now when its 2300 performances old all the cast still laugh at the jokes,. But it’s one of the funniest shows I’ve ever seen but nearly all the unbooked seats behind us were empty, I suppose people are scared of an air raid.  We got home just after 11.  He wants to see Haw-Haw and Black Velvet now.  Bed about 15 to 12.

Friday 9^th February 1940.

Up late.  I went past Mark Lane for the second time this week.  I was so interested in my reading & Mr Buttle was waiting for the lift when I got in. Mr Buttle left at 4 as he was going out but he doesn’t know where he is going,. His son is arranging it.

I went to night school for shorthand but as they had no coal we left early. It was as cold at school as in the street. In the afternoon I spoke on the phone to Mr Clare of Arthur E. Evans. They’ve moved to Bishop’s Stortford but I don’t think we will do business with them, as they want a lot for Latvia and its controlled by Russia and Germany now.

Saturday 10^th February 1940.

Mr Buttle had been to see “The Impossible She” at the Richmond Theatre.  We got away early.  I went round to Wells house & we went to Maribor Park the other side of the river.  Home about 7.  I didn’t go out again.

Sunday 11^th February 1940.

Up about 12.  Ern went out about 1.15.  I went to Wells about 3.  We went to Eastbury House Upney by bus and to a museum inside Eastbury House but we weren’t in their long as it shut at 4.30.  We came back by train from Upney.  In the evening we stayed at his house I hope I go to the bungalow with him because he knows two nice girls down there. He was telling me some of the things he did.  His sister came in after a while and we were all playing about till his mum & dad came in about 10.15.

Monday 12^th February 1940

For some reason or other when I got in I didn’t clean the cylinders & Miss Purser happened to look at her machine about 11. And the cylinder holder was out of place.  When she had a closer look she found 2 cylinders broken.  In the afternoon Mr Clarke came up and he said she would have told him if the cleaners had broken them.  In the evening I went to night school , did bookkeeping – the books we work from are all wrong and although I had worked the exercise correctly it was wrong by the answer book.  So he worked it out, found I was right and blamed my “mistakes” on printing errors.  

Wills came home with me and we were talking till about 20 to 11.  Mr Smith called in his car for some blankets that had come from Dorking.  After he had been gone for some time he rang us to be summonsed for leaving his car 35 minutes in Lloyds Avenue.  Why!  He was only in our office 15 minutes at the very outside.  I suppose the copper was one of those officious blighters who has only just joined the force.  But whenever they do pick on someone they pick on the wrong one.  He was doing someone a good turn and besides I’ve seen cars in Lloyds Avenue for an hour or more.  

Captain Innes came in.  I sorted out a lot of old books today and in one of them that was going to be thrown away there was a lot of maps, so I took them home.  Mrs Simpson came in  in the evening.  Queenie has been taken to hospital.

Tuesday 13^th February 1940

In the morning the cleaner who does out our office stopped me and asked about the cylinders and said she didn’t do it.  I think she cleaned out the room on Saturday and she said they were alright then.  It looks as if is going to be one of those great unsolved cases. 

Captain Innes came in & while he was talking he said that his 1^st or 2^nd mate (I forget which) was leaning on a lamppost reading his paper waiting for a crowd of traffic to go by when a lorry skidded and knocked down the post he was leaning against and —————didn’t even scratch him.  It’s quite light now when I get home. It seems that summer will soon be here & not too soon for me.  When I got home I went to music .  Miss Elson had “American Suite” for me.  When I got home again I changed and went round to Wells house.  He said he would have his chemistry set out, but he didn’t so we played cards.  I went home about 10 to 10. 

Wednesday 14^th February 1940

These last 3 days I have done up a parcel of firewood for Mr Cureton and Mr Buttle to take home as they can’t get any wood.  The wood was in the basement and today while I was down there I found:

1. A pencil
2. A propelling pencil
3. A tube of refill leads.  

I found out something else about my typewriter today, besides having red, blue and stencil it’s got a fourth position and when it’s on then it types blue and then red and the blue and then red ad infinitum.  In the evening I went to night school, did typing.  Afterwards I went for a walk with Wells bed about 11.15.

Thursday 15^th February 1940

This evening, when I got home Vic was there but Ern and he soon went .  Then mum and dad went out.   Mum had been to A Liz’s again this afternoon.  She went to see Queenie yesterday and said that she is very ill.  About 20 to 7 Wells came & we went to the Odeon, saw “Mr Chedworth Steps Out “ & “The Light That Failed”.  I’ve been collecting silver paper for Mr Buttle for some days now (he gives it to the Canine Defence League) & I asked Ern to get out that bagful from his shed – but he forgot it – as per usual.

Friday 16^th February 1940

In the evening I went to the library, its lovely inside now they’ve painted it.  I got “If I were You” P.G. Wodehouse & “William, the Rebel” Richard Crompton.  Went to shorthand after.

Saturday 17^th February 1940

This afternoon I went to the music shop and bought “Bella Bambina” “Give me my Road“ “Music from the Movies” & “10 Noel Gay Hits”.

Walter came about 20 to 3.

I went round to Wells’ house & we went for a walk in the evening we went out again.

Ern will have to register 9^th March.

Sunday 18^th February 1940

I was up before 10.  The morning ——- it happened like this:  at 9.30 M&D were woken up by a crowd of people coming down Tweedmouth Road. They gave a 3-hour A.R.P. demonstration.^XIII  First of all the fire Engines & trailer pumps got their hose out and put out the flames (Edinburgh Road was razed to the ground & Glasgow Road was in flames).  But they didn’t use the hose and there wasn’t any incendiary bomb demonstration although they got the equipment out.  When the fire engines were going home one of them went down Tweedmouth Road and was stopped by an highly indignant officer who said, “you can’t go by here the roads blocked” then he yelled out “Stop any vehicle that comes this way”. When they had finished demolition squads came round & all they did was stop a while and then drive off.  After all this the S.B’s^XIV started work so they are evidently going to let casualties be bombed, burnt, drenched with water & then taken to hospital. There were 400 casualties & they all had labels on saying what they had wrong.  Although some other people were making tea & one man who was supposed to have a cut artery said he had bled to death & then he went home.  The Stretcher Bearers were the only hot ones there and Boy! were they hot, but of all the daft things one man had a broken Patella of the left leg & they were going to do up his right leg.  And the bandages weren’t marked so some of the station are going to be without bandages.  The ambulances were quite good on the whole but one or two of them were sloping backwards & it’s a wonder the stretchers didn’t slid out especially when they went over the bump in the road outside Browns.  One of the Drivers was showing off and as he went over the bump I thought the back was coming off the chassis, it jumped so much, I don’t know what the “casualties“ thought who were in it.

Wells came round while I was watching & I said I would meet him about 3.20.  after “Garrison Theatre” (BBC Forces Radio Program).  So I went round & we went to Barking Broadway & then walked about a mile or so & then we caught a bus back to the Greengate.  Vic was there when I got back but Ern & he soon went.  Mum went round to U.Bobs & I had my bath.  Afterwards I worked my stamps.  When mum got back she said Queenie was very ill indeed.  I went to bed about 10.30.

Monday 19^th February 1940

Bought “Everybody’s” and “If I were You”.  I forgot to take the silver paper I promised Mr Buttle.  In the evening I went to night-school.  Afterwards I went home with Ronnie Cook – a chap I met at night-school.  Wells was with us, he lives at 61 Libra Road near the railway.  I’m going to meet him with Wells on Saturday & we are going to the Odeon.  When I got home Doris was there she had brought some sugar for us.  Bed about 10.30.  John is being brought home, he will be here in 2 or 3 days.

Tuesday 20^th February 1940

Took the silver paper to work this morning.  Mr Buttle was very pleased with it.  Went to music in the evening and to library.  Got “Something Fresh” “P Smith in the City” both by Wodehouse.  When I got home I listened to George Formby .  Mum went to U. Bobs.  Wells came and was upstairs with me for some time.  Queenie is a little better.  Went to bed 11.30.

Wednesday 21^st February 1940

Simpson didn’t come in, he went to Newport.  Thurley was with him.  It seemed very restful today.  In the morning I finished my library book and in the afternoon I was reading Picture Post.^XV  Home just before 6.  I went to Night-school – typing.  I met Joyce Carter there – she was in the same class at Lister as me.  And I walked round to the Broadway with her after we had finished typing.  

When I got home Hilda was there so I walked back to the Broadway with her.  After M&D had gone to bed I washed & was talking to Ern and I told him what had happened today.  When I got back from lunch Mr Buttle & Miss Purser called me over & said we’re going to let you into a secret but you must not tell anyone.  Yesterday while you were out someone rang up and asked to speak to “Wan Ling”.  Mr Buttle answered and he thought it was Mr Thurley so he asked what number he wanted and he said ROYAL 6155 so after a bit they rang off.  They then said to me that when Mr Cureton came in he kept on looking and asking them what they were laughing at but they wouldn’t tell him.  So they wanted me to get on to Mr Thurley as soon as Mr Cureton came in and went upstairs.  So I got on to Mr Thurley and gave the line to Miss Purser & Mr Buttle & listened in.  Miss Purser wanted to speak to Mr Wan’s laundry and Mr Thurley guessing it was a reprisal made a joke of it .  Miss Purser said she wanted ROYAL 6155 the number they wanted yesterday.  Anyhow after a while they rang off & when Mr Thurley has come down again someone comes on the phone & asks to speak to Mr Cureton without being announced.  I’m sure it was Mr Thurley and he said to Mr Cureton “Hello! Is that smelly, if so this is carbolic” and rang off soon after.  Sitting thinking a while Mr Cureton rings up Mr Thurley & says “Hello Carbolic why did you ring me up just now”.  But Mr Thurley said he didn’t & Mr Cureton explained what had happened & then Mr Thurley said I thought it was you who rang me up just now, Mr Cureton said he hadn’t (which of course is true) then Mr Thurley said, “well it must have been John”.  I think Mr Cureton is still puzzling it out.  Perhaps we will get a call tomorrow.  Oh I’ve just remember I went out once when I got back Miss Purser said, “Tell Mr Cureton if I’ve had any calls while he was out so I said “No”.

Poor Mr Cureton.  I bet he’s still thinking it over.  I’m going to meet mum & dad on Mark Lane Station tomorrow night.

Book 8

Thursday 22^nd February 1940

Up late.  Finished “Something Fresh” at work.  I was on Mark Lane platform 10 to 6.  M&D came along at 5 past 6 and they came on an Inner Circle Train.  Dad had got on a Metropolitan train and gone to Liverpool Street.  We went into the Coliseum at 6.30.  “Cinderella” is a jolly good show but I’ve seen better.  The 2 Leslie’s ran away with the show I think & Leslie Sarony – Buttons was the best.  Leslie Holmes was the Baron.  The 3 brokers men – played by the 3 Loose Screws were quite good and one of them who called himself Bear Brummell was very good looking.  There were only 8 men in the show. In the interval, I went with Dad & had a drink.  Home about 12. Ern & Vic came in & we were all talk about Haw-Haw & other things when Ern brought out a card with French & English words and their pronunciation and asked me if I could do a few copies for him so that’s a job I’ve got tomorrow.

Friday 23^rd February 1940

Dinnertime I copied out that list of French words, 4 copies in all.  Went to the library in the evening got “More William” R Crompton and “Piccadilly Jim” Wodehouse & I asked them to reserve “William & A.R.P.” for me. When I got to night school Mr Shearing asked me what books I had.  Cook came home with me.

Saturday 24^th February 1940

Simpson didn’t come in today so I was home early for a change but it didn’t really matter because Wells was ¾ of an hour late.  We got round the Odeon at about 3 and saw “Over the Moon” – in technicolour.  A very good film.  “Meet Maxwell Archer” – after the style of the Saint Books & “Donald’s cousin Gus”. Home about 6.15.  

My eyes ached terribly so I bathed them & that helped a bit.  After Garrison Theatre I went upstairs to lay down but I had to come down because I felt sick.  After I had been sick I had some lemon & bicarb of soda and went to bed.  

Sunday 25^th February 1940

I was up at 10.30 & considering that summertime began so that it is really only 9.30 I was up very early for a Sunday morning especially after last night.  I wanted to go round and help Wells build his laboratory but Dad said I had better not.  Wells came round about 3.30 while I was bathing & I’m going round to see him tonight.  I was round his house about 6.15 and we went for a walk he came home with me & I lent him my William book and he is coming round tomorrow evening.  

Ern going to have his ears syringed & I put some olive oil in his ears & syringed them to soften the wax before he goes to Dr Kyndt’s.

Monday 26^th February 1940

Up 8.5.  Captains Fisher and Innes came in this morning.  I made out all the new files & at one time I was almost completely submerged in papers.  We got rid of the last of the parcels of torches, tin helmets, lifesaving waistcoats etc.  This evening I went to night school and I went for a walk with Wells after.  When I got back Ern was in.  He’s got stock-taking to do tomorrow so he wants to get up early – I can see him doing it.

Tuesday 27^th February 1940

Ern surprised us, after being called 2 or 3 times he was up by 8.20.  in the evening I went to the library but I couldn’t get a book I wanted so I went to music and went again afterwards and got “Just William” & “William the Conqueror” both by Crompton.  I read under the bedclothes with a torch when I was in bed.  Mr Butler’s brother Douglas came up from Goole to see him.

Wednesday 28^th February 1940

Captain Broughton came in.  I met mum in the butchers as I came home.  She had been to see Queenie.  She is much worse & John has applied for extended leave.  I went to night school and met Wells after and went for a walk.  Bed about 12.15.

The best thing the government has done in this war was to start summertime again.  I can practice every night now.

Thursday 29^th February 1949

What a day. I recon we’ve spent nearly 5 quid on ‘phone calls alone. I haven’t had a minute to call my own and because I was going out I didn’t get away till 20 to 6 & was home at 6.10.  Freddie came round about 6.30 & we went to the Odeon and saw “The Stars Look Down” – a very great picture “Night Work” & “Living Dangerously.  Home about 10.15 bed 11.20. 

Friday 1^st March 1940

On Plaistow station this morning I met Edwards – he’s working in a stockbrokers office.  I went with him to Aldgate on a ‘Met’ train and then changed to a District.  He likes work better than Lister although he says now and again he would like to be back there.  

Ern will be called up to sign next Saturday – the 9^th March.  Home about 6.5. Practised & then went to Night School when I got back Jack Parker and his wife were there.  She is going to have a baby.  Before going to Night School I went to the Library & got “The Brighter Buccaneer” Charteris & “The Travelling Skull” H.S. Keeler. Bed about 11.45.

Saturday 2^nd March 1940

Nothing much doing at work, except a letter saying we’ve got to clear out of the Basement by the 8^th as they want it for ARP purposes.  So that means I’ve got to take up my warehouse coat on Monday.  In the afternoon I went to Wells house & helped him build his laboratory.  I had my bath in the evening.

Sunday 3^rd March 1940

Up late.  Went to Wells house in the afternoon & couldn’t get an answer so I called again in the evening & he and Willy (one of his pals) was in so we went to the Greengate & saw “You can’t cheat an Honest Man” & “Air Devils”. 

Monday 4^th March 1940

What a day.  I’ve got about 250 stamps & have I enjoyed myself.  Mr Buttle helped me in the basement & we did in less than a day what Mr Simpson said would nearly take me a week.  We were down there looking at files – 1931 over our shoulder onto the heap, 1933 ditto – 1938 keep that – 1934 over our shoulder.  By the time we had finished the basement looked a proper wreck, paper and files in a 5 foot pile up against the wall sloping gradually down to the floor.  We were filthy when we had finished – but boy of boy – was it fun or was it fun. 

Mr Buttle was trying out some new cigarettes with cork tips and he lit about 3 of them at the cork tipped end.  And then as we were finished, I turned to him and said casually – I’d like to make old Hitler sort all those out and Mr Buttle nearly exploded with laughing.  So what with one thing and another I had an enjoyable day.  Wells called for me about 6.30 & we went to the library.  I got a card this morning to that “William and ARP” was in so I got it & “Ten Hours” by H.S. Keeler.  Then we went to Night School.  I’m going to see Wells Thursday about 6.45.

Tuesday 5^th March 1940

At work we didn’t do much as Miss Purser is out – ill in bed.  So Mr Cureton did the typing and Mr Collins gave him the bind about it.  Went to music and started “The Skater Waltz”.

Wednesday 6^th March 1940

Miss Purser came back. We brought up the last of the files from the basement and the men brought up the cabinets and some shelves.  Went to night school did typing.

Thursday 7^th March 1940

I’ve nearly finished that blooming job at work, except for those 2 extra shelves we want for the stationary cupboard.  When I got home Ern and Vic were in, but Mum & Dad were out.  So I had my dinner.  Ern and Vic went and when Freddie came we went to the Odeon.  When we got there, we met MacDonald (from Lister) and we all went in together and boy oh boy did we have fun.  There was the 3 of us in the front row cracking jokes about the film we were seeing.  We saw “If I had a Million” and “The Great Victor Herbert”.  When I got home I started talking to Ern and I went to bed about 1.15.

Friday 8th March 1940

There’s one thing about a diary – you don’t have to bother about grammar, spelling, punctuation etc.  you can do it just as you like.  Went to night school – shorthand Bed 11

Saturday 9^th March 1940

Ern registers today – between 4 and 5. I hope they take a long while to call him up.  I hope the war ends before he is ready to go to the front.

Went round to Freddie’s in the afternoon and we went to the Kinema, West Ham Lane & saw “Heaven with a Barbed Wire Fence” and “Old Mother Riley Joins Up” a jolly good show.  Bed about 12.  Ern has put down for the Navy.  Uncle Albert came in the afternoon just before I went out.

Sunday 10^th March 1940

Up about 12.  Went round to Freddie’s about 3.  But he was not ready, I came home about 5.45 and he came round about 7.  Mum had been stripping the wall as we are having the sweep in and then the decorators after tomorrow.  Fred and I went to the Premier East Ham and saw “Torchy gets her Man” and “Going Places” – about racing – with the song Jeepers Creepers home 11.15. bed 12.15.

Monday 11^th March 1940

Captain Gibbons of the “New Lambton” came in this morning – he seems one of the best we’ve had in. I went to Night School in the evening and I found out the list stage of the R.S.P. exam is the end of next month so I am going to book-keeping on Monday & Tuesdays now, and I arranged to go to music at 6.30 on Fridays.  All those who are going in for the exam have to put their names down by tomorrow night and pay their subscription – 2/6d. Mr Simpson brought up the curtains for the shelves & cabinet.  The kitchen doesn’t look too bad now it finished.

Tuesday 12^th March 1940

We put up the curtains this morning at work.  As I was walking down London Street a platoon went by.  All the soldiers were whistling “In the Quartermasters stores”. In the evening I didn’t get away till 10 to 6 and then I got my hair cut, got a pair of shoes that are being mended and collected my battery from being charged – and I still managed to get to night school in time and put my name down for the exam & paid my 2/6d.

Wednesday 13^th March 1940

Went to night school in the evening.  Nothing else of interest.

Thursday 14^th March 1940

Met Edwards in Plaistow station. Simpson didn’t come in.  Just before we went home (5 0’clock) we were taking nails out of a lot of wood for Mr Buttle & Mr Cureton and by the time we had finished the place looked like a carpentry shop. I got home at 5.45 and took the clock from Simpsons room with me, they’ve got a new one and said I could have the old one.  Freddie came about 10 to 7 & we went to the Odeon and Saw “Backyard Front” “Return to Yesterday” and “Laugh it off” with Tommy Trinder and there was a film about saving wastepaper. Freddie wants me to go to their bungalow at Easter.  Home about 11.  Just before I went to bed I started the clock.  Read in bed.

Friday 15^th March 1940

It’s a good job today is pay day.  When I came down this morning the clock was still going.  Mr Buttle got me to take a pair of glasses to be mended this morning and asked me to go back for them at 4.30.  Got Mr Buttle’s glasses for him.

Saturday 16^th March 1940

Mr Buttle bought a new hat so he made a dent in the old one and said that on Monday he would take Mr Collins new one and put the dented on in its place – I wonder what will happen.  In the afternoon I went to Wells house and we mucked about in the garden.  In the evening we went to the library & I got “The Heart of a Goof” & “Summer Moonshine” both by Wodehouse. 

Sunday 17^th March 1940

Up at 1 pm.  Fred was coming round at 3.30 but he arrived at 6.30 & we went to the Premier and saw “Secret Service of the Air” & “They Made me a Criminal”.  Home about 10.45.  Just before tea Stanton came round and we gave him some books & things & he gave me a mechanical book he gets every month & he said he will bring one round every month.  Ern mended Mr Buttle’s torch.

Monday 17^th March 1940

I took Mr Buttle’s torch to work, he wanted to know how much it cost so I said nothing – which was the truth.  But in the end he made me take 20 cigarettes for Ern and 20 for me.  Home at 6.  After tea went to library got “Last Men in London” W. Olaf Stapleton & “William Again”.  Last man in London is very good. Then I went to Wells house and then to night school.  I got 2 new books – cash book & ledger and he gave us all a sheet of Instructions for the Exam.  I am going to Freddie’s house Thursday evening.  Read when I got home bed 12.  Read in bed.  Ern came in 1.15.  Went down and gave him his cigarettes.  He asked me to thank Mr Buttle.

Bed

Sleep.

Captain Le Louann of the Daphne came in this morning and were we busy.  For at least an hour I did nothing but attend to the telephone & whenever I had someone on, Simpson or Thurley would lift their receivers and I had to cut off to attend to them.  It nearly drove me crazy.  

Tuesday 19^th March 1940

When I got at work I saw Mr Buttle I conveyed Ern’s thanks to him.  Sometimes work seems so good that I wish I was always at it but just now for instance old Simpson wanted a number and gave me the number, extension and name, and then got mad a bit because I wasn’t quite sure of the extension and I had to ask him and then Collins comes and mutters something about stations social when he means the solicitors law society.  A Mr Parker has just called to see Mr Parker – I think he’s the Parker of Kumolo.  I’ll have to get a new nib for this pen the blue pencil thing.

Went to night school and met Peter Emanuel at bookkeeping.  So there was no work done by me or him and going home we were reminiscing of our schooldays.  He came home with me and I gave him some stamps.  Next Tuesday he is bringing his collection to school and we are going to exchange.

Bed 11. 

Wednesday 20^th March 1940

We get paid today because Mr Collins doesn’t come in Thursdays.  This evening I went to night school and went home with Joyce afterwards.  She lives somewhere up Prince Regents Lane, in a turning just past the fire station.  I said I didn’t think I would come any more but she asked me to so I will.  My exam is April 30^th – 7 to 9.30 pm.

Thursday 21^st March 1940

I have to go in Saturday with Mr Cureton and Mr Simpson but I can have a Saturday off in the near future whenever I want it.  During dinnertime, I got some buns and butter.  Mr Buttle said he would toss up as to whether he or the P.C. box would pay so I said “alright, heads the box pays tails you don’t pay” so it came down tails so he didn’t pay.  In the afternoon Mr Buttle said it had been arranged that he and Miss Purser are to have Saturday off and Mr Cureton and Mr Simpson will come in and I and Mr Cureton can have a Saturday off later.  But I would sooner have next Saturday. Home about 6. Went to Fred’s & we went to the Odeon and saw “Hollywood Cavalcade” “Too Busy to Work” & an advertising film.

Good Friday 22^nd March 1940

Up 9.30.  went to Fred’s about 10.40 and Fred and I went for a walk.  His sister is going to have a bike so Fred will be having one so I am going to try to get one too.  In the afternoon we went out and got as far as Woodford.  We went about 20 miles I should imagine and walked about 9.  Home 6.30.  after I had had tea I went to Fred’s and we went for a short walk.  Bed by 10.30

Saturday 23^rd March 1940

Work in morning.  Finished 12.0 home 12.40.  in afternoon went to Fred’s and mucked about in the street on bikes.  In evening I went round again.  Home 10.30.

Sunday 24^th March 1940

Up 9.30 went to Fred’s at 10.45.  Billy and Fred came round & helped Ern & I to clean up his bike.  After dinner Bill and Fred came round & we went on our bikes over to Wanstead. Home about 5.  Did about 10-12 miles. In the evening, we went to the Greengate & saw “Little tough Guys in Society” & “The Crime of Dr Hallet”.  Home 9.30.  No-one was in so I just sat down and read till mum & dad came in.

Monday 25^th March 1940

Bill, Fred & I went to Woolwich on our bikes this morning.  Did 20 miles.  Home 1.30.  Ern wanted his bike in the afternoon so went to the Fair at Wanstead.  Coming Home it began to rain but it stopped by the time the bus got to the Greengate.  Home 6.20.  In the evening, I stopped in and read.  Ern is getting a motor bike when he comes out of the army and I am having his bike.

Tuesday 26^th March 1940

It rained all day.  In my lunch hour I went to Barclays Bank Leadenhall Street, & when I was coming back that dame from Harrisons & Johnsons upstairs gave me shelter under her umbrella.  She spent the holiday the same way as I did.  I will have to cultivate this acquaintance. I went to night school in the evening. Peter had forgotten his stamps so I am going round to his club tomorrow night.  I went to Fred’s afterwards & he is going to come round Thursday evening.  Simpson said I could have Saturday off.

Wednesday 27^th March 1940

Mr Buttle was at work first that’s 3 times I’ve been 2^nd now.  I fitted up a plug in the far corner of the office so that I can boil the kettle or have a light there.  To do it I had to switch off all the electricity in the office.  Went to typing in the evening.  Took Joyce home afterwards.  Then I went to see Peter at his club & took my stamps with me.  We exchanged stamps & I’ve got some jolly good ones from him.  Home 10.45.  Bed 11.50.

Thursday 28^th March 1940

Got a letter from Night School saying that if there is less than 10 at shorthand tomorrow the class would close down.  We went to the Greengate saw “The Arsenal Stadium Mystery” “Arizona Legion” & “Arms” (A Call for Arms). Home 10.30.

Friday 29^th March 1940

At night school there was just 10.  Went to music.

Saturday 30^th March 1940

In morning I bought some music.  In afternoon I went to the Forest Gate Odeon & saw “The Housekeepers Daughter” & “Band Waggon” & went to get a new gas mask – mine is too small – but the offices were closed.  In evening I went to Fred’s.  He bought a bike £2.19.6 it cost him.

Sunday 31^st March 1940

Up 1.30 went out with Fred on our bikes.  We went to Purfleet and as soon as we turned round the wind did the same & we had it against us all the way.  Where we started the mile meter was at 2275.0 when we turned round it was at 2287.6 and when we got home it was at 2798.0.  In the afternoon we went to Woolwich and when we got home it was at 2812.2.  in the evening I went round Fred’s and we mucked about it was at 282.8 when I got home.  46.8 miles not bad.

---

I: Wikipedia
An H (Passed as Horrific) certificate was added in 1932 to alert parents to horror-themed material. Patrons of all ages are admitted. Patrons under 12 cannot be admitted unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
History of British film certificates

II: Wikipedia
Victor Oliver von Samek (8 July 1898 – 15 August 1964), known as Vic Oliver, was an Austrian-born British actor and radio comedian.

III: Probably Churchman Tenner’s Cigarettes.

IV: Walter – older brother

V: Wikipedia
Henry Cockton (7 December 1807 – 26 June 1853) was an English novelist, remembered primarily for The Life and Adventures of Valentine Vox, the Ventriloquist

VI: Wikipedia
Everybody’s Weekly was tabloid founded 1913 in London as The Competitor’s Journal. The publication was widely syndicated in the United States. The publication ran its last issue 25 April 1959. The publication contained a short story each week, some of which were by Edgar Wallace. H. E. Bates was also a contributor.

VII: Costermonger – a person who sells goods, especially fruit and vegetables, from a handcart in the street

VIII: This was probably the German cruiser Admiral Graf Spee

IX: Wikipedia
A conscientious objector is an “individual who has claimed the right to refuse to perform military service” on the grounds of freedom of thought, conscience, or religion.

X: Surprised to see News Years Day was NOT a bank holiday until 1971 in England
https://libraryblog.lbrut.org.uk/2016/12/origins-bank-holidays/
The Origins of Bank Holidays
In the UK we owe our statutory bank holidays to John Lubbock, first Baron of Avebury, scientific writer (who studied ants and tried to teach his poodle to read), banker and politician and who, in 1871,  drafted the Bank Holiday Bill  which, when it became law, created the first bank holidays.
Statutory bank holidays were introduced by the 1871 Bank Holiday Act and were days when the Bank of England and banks could  close. 
The first bank holidays were Easter Monday, Whit Monday, the first Monday in August and  Boxing Day, in England, Wales and Ireland. In Scotland they were New Year’s Day, Good Friday, the first Monday in May, the first Monday in August, and Christmas Day.
Confusingly, there were also public holidays , which are common law holidays that came about through habit and custom, these were Christmas  Day and Good Friday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Today, the terms public and bank holiday have become interchangeable.
New Year’s Day 1 January
The 1871 Act made this a bank holiday in Scotland but  England, Wales and Northern Ireland had to wait until the 1971 Act.

XI: Wikipedia – A 1938 Soviet drama film, directed by Herbert Rappaport and Adolf Minkin. It is one of the earliest films directly dealing with the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany.

XII: Dad’s dog when he was younger

XIII: Air Raid Precautions (ARP) (Wikipedia)  was an organisation set up in 1937 dedicated to the protection of civilians from the danger of air raids. It included the Raid Wardens’ Service that was to report on bombing incidents. Every local council was responsible for organising ARP wardens, messengers, ambulance drivers, rescue parties and liaison with police and fire brigades.From 1 September 1939, ARP Wardens enforced the “blackout“. Heavy curtains and shutters were required on all private residences, commercial premises, and factories to prevent light escaping and so making them a possible target for enemy bombers to locate their targets. With increased enemy bombing during the Blitz, the ARP services were central in reporting and dealing with bombing incidents. They managed the air raid sirens and ensured people were directed to shelters.

XIV: Stretcher Bearers

XV: Picture Post (Wikipedia) was a photojournalistic magazine published from 1938 to 1957. It is considered a pioneering example of photojournalism and was an immediate success, selling 1,700,000 copies a week after only two months. It has been called the UK’s equivalent of Life magazine.The magazine’s editorial stance was liberal, anti-Fascist and populist and from its inception Picture Post campaigned against the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany. In the 26 November 1938 issue a picture story was run entitled “Back to the Middle Ages”: photographs of Adolf Hitler, Joseph Goebbels and Hermann Göring were contrasted with the faces of those scientists, writers and actors they were persecuting.

Book 9

Monday 1^st April 1940

Fred came round in evening at 5.30 with some leather cloths for mum & me.  He came again on his bike at 6.45.  I went to library and got “Wonderful Scheme” (The Wonderful Scheme of Mr Christopher Thorne) and “Cheung Detective” (Y. Cheung Business Detective) both by H.S. Keeler.  Then we went to night school.  Fred left his bike chained to our gate so he came home with me.  It was Simpsons Birthday.

Tuesday 2^nd April 1940

I met Fred outside the library as I was coming home.  Went to Night School but first I met Ern at the Greengate & rode the bike home for him as he was going out.  Went for a walk with Peter after school.  

Wednesday 3^rd April 1940

I met Ern in the evening & I decided that if Fred would come out I would go for a ride.  We went for a long ride with one of the girls and we were talking for a long while afterwards.  I was home about 10.  I broke the teapot lid today at work.

Thursday 5^th April 1940

I wonder what’s come over Cureton lately he seems to positively dislike me but still – I hate him so it makes no difference.  The silly old Blue-Pencil^I – I found out yesterday he’s 37.  When I got home mum & dad were out they had gone to see Haw-Haw.  Fred came round to say he would not be coming to the pictures so I went by myself.  I saw “Sherlock Holmes” “Arizona Wildcat” & “3 Kings and a Queen”.  Home 10.30.

I think I’ll have to change my mind about Cureton he’s been quite decent since lunchtime.

Friday 5^th April 1940

Went to B.I.S.C. at Tothill Street this morning, took me just over an hour. Miss Purser rang up the “Standard” today to tell them about a mistake in the paper, according to them a Swedish town belonged to Norway. Mr Buttle said she should have given them her name, he said his son had made quite a lot of money by sending papers photos or ringing them up to tell about something he had seen.  I’m going to keep my eyes open now.  

When I went to the bank to get the wage money he gave me all new notes – the blue ones.  I think they are better looking than he green ones.  I expect the mauve 10/- notes will be available next week.  Ern had one of the new 10/- notes this evening they are not as good as the old ones.

I went to music & to the library.  Got “Doctor Sally” by P G Wodehouse & “Gibbons Simplified Stamp Catalogue”. Then I went to night school.  Home 9.20

Saturday 6^th April 1940

Captain Broughton came in at 9.20.  Mr Buttle was in soon after.  Mr Buttle & I were alone at one time and he asked me about the stamps & he, after a while, verified my opinion of Mr Cureton.  He told me not to let him run up a big account as several times he has had to wipe off accounts which Mr Cureton owed.

Because I wanted to get home early the train I was in was delayed.  We were going along when about 5 yards outside Mile End the lights went and we came to an abrupt stop.  We were in silence – complete silence – for about ½ a minute & then 2 women started to laugh.  Then a voice called “The currents off Harry” “What” bawled the unseen Harry. “The currents is cut off – there’s no juice” “alright “ was the reply”.  After about another 4 or 5 minutes someone started to whistle and you could hear whispered conversations.  The guard came through just then & one or two people lit up cigarettes – It was very queer seeing their faces in the feeble red lights of the cigarettes – all highlights & shadows.  Then we started again after a 15 minute delay.

After dinner I went to Ern’s shop to get his bike. While I was there I tried on some shoes.  In the afternoon I went to buy some music – got “There’s a boy coming Home on Leave” & “When you wear your Sunday Blue”. Bed 10.30. Did 25 ½ miles.

Sunday 7^th April 1940

Up 10 to 8. Found I had a puncture when Fred came round at 15 to 9.  We found it was only a slow puncture so we started at 7 to 9.  The meter was at 2,883 9/10 miles.  We got at his bungalow about 11.30 and the meter was 2,908 miles.  We called at his aunts and then went to his Grans.   We bought some peaches and biscuits and what with the grub we took down we had a feast.  We played about and at 4.20 we left the meter was at 2908.3/10 miles. We went to his Grans and met his aunt & uncle.  When we had gone about 5 miles we got behind a man and woman on a tandem with a baby car at their side and we made them our pacemakers for 15 miles.  With their help we got home at 20 to 7 with the meter at 2932.7/10 miles.  We did 48.8 miles.  In evening I sorted stamps and did some homework.  Bed 11.30

It took us about 2 hours 37 minutes to go and 2 hours 10 minutes to get back.

Monday 8^th April 1940

Captain Frollet of the Blacktoft was waiting when I got in.  His 2^nd mate came in afterwards, I don’t know his name, but he used to be captain of Andrew Carnegie’s yacht.  And he still goes to sea – although he has a pile of money for 2 reasons:

1:- he likes the sea

2:- he can’t agree with his wife. 

Only 3 weeks to the exam now.  Home 9.30  Bed 11.45

Tuesday 9^th April 1940

Germany has now invaded Denmark and Norway.

Nothing much at work.  Went to Book-keeping, I was talking about stamps to Mr Richards & he has promised to get me some if he remembers.  After school I went home with Peter.

Wednesday 10^th April 1940

Went out on my bike with Fred & one of the girls down his street.  Home 10.  Sorted stamps.  About 11.10 I was downstairs by myself & I was fiddling with the wireless and on 1525 metres I got a news service, I don’t know where it came from but it had all the latest news.  When it was over a foreign language news was broadcast.

Thursday 11^th April 1940

The new stamps are being issued on May 6^th.  We are also going to have Anglo-French stamps.  We have recaptured several Norwegian towns and a lot of our troops are over there.  After lunch Mr Buttle, Miss Purser and I had a discussion about politics and war in general.  I’d like to wring old Simpsons neck, the silly old sod has said I’ve got to wait until 5.30 every night now.  All the rest clear of about 5.15 & leave me to twiddle my fingers, nothing ever happens, so it wastes my time & makes me hurry to get to night school.  I’m the first one in and the last but one to leave.  He’s a mean selfish vindictive sod and I’d like to break every bone in his body.  As soon as I can am going to get another job so the quicker I pass the exams the better.

Went to the Odeon with Fred.  Saw “Mrs Feather Explains” “Chinese Bungalow” & “Eternally yours”.

Home 10.30.  Fred wants me to go to his aunts at Tilbury on Sunday.  I don’t know what to do.  

Friday 12^th April 1940

I got in early & rang up Fred.  I got out of going to Tilbury by saying that as we’re rationed I did not think it was fair to take other people’s grub. They have nearly completed the extension of Mile End Station & I recon the new trains will be running inside 6 months.

Went to music and then the library.  Got “Cannibal Quest” by Gordon Sinclair.  Then went to night school.  Went to Fred’s afterwards.

Saturday 13^th April 1940

Ern is going to work on his bike so I can’t have it.  Got “Moonlight Avenue”.  Messed about all day.  Had haircut.

Sunday 14^th April 1940

Up 11.20.  Ern went to Southend, Billy, Fred and I were out on our bikes all day.  Went to Woolwich in afternoon.  Did about 22 miles all day.  Promised to find out the train times for next Saturday for Mrs Wells.

Monday 15^th April 1940

I went up to Ronson’s in the Strand during my dinner hour for Mr Buttle.  Mr Thurley had asked him to mend a lighter but he couldn’t so he was going to have it done by the makers.  They only charged 6d and my fare was 4d so it cost Mr Buttle 10d.  I had to get an A.B.C. Railway Guide so I got the details for trains to Laindon from that.

Went to night school.  Then went to Fred’s.  One of the louts down his road had an argument with Mrs Riley and socked her one and cut her eye, so she is going to summons him.  Fred and I were in Bill’s house for a long time, home 10.30. bed 11.30.

Tuesday 16^th April 1940

Mr Thurley is moving soon & we had to duplicate some postcards for him about it.  Our duplicator is better than the one at Evans.  During my lunch hour I joined the City Library in London Street.  I got “Small Bachelor” by P.G. Wodehouse.  When I got home I went to the library and got “Pagans of North Borneo” 

Wednesday 17^th April 1940

Mr Buttle brought us up 2lbs of sugar today.  He gave me a couple of envelopes.  One was marked from H.M. Ship and had no stamp.  Simpson didn’t come in today.  Mr Thurley’s son Donald came in & his niece Olive came in, she’s not a bad looker – about 18 I should recon.  I stayed late with Mr Buttle – we left about 5 to 6. 

Fred, Bill, me and a chap named Knight went to Woolwich in the evening.  Home about 10.15.  I went to the City library & got “Sweet William” by Richard Crompton.

Thursday 18^th April 1940

It is Mr Buttle’s and Mr Cureton’s birthday today.  Miss Purser sent Mr Buttle a lovely card.  Mr Buttle brought up a cake for us.  He gave me 20 cigarettes that were supposed to be for the navy only – duty free ones – His son had brought them home and he had brought some up for me. He said he has cigarettes from dozens of ships – they stamp the name of the ship on them that they are destined for.  He has one from the Ark Royal among his collection.  Didn’t leave the office till 5 to 6.

Went to Odeon with Fred and saw “Destry Rides Again” “Mrs Pym of Scotland Yard”. Home 11.  Ern came in gave him one of the cigarettes & told about the fun we had today.  Mr Cureton told Mr Troughton about the cake & Troughton asked for a piece.  Mr Buttle, when he heard this said, “very well, he will have a piece”.  Just then Mr Troughton rang up for Mr Buttle so Miss Purser took the call & got rid of him.  The cake was done up into a big envelope & a poem was put in, 

“We are sending you this Rill Mill

We hope it won’t make you fill ill”

(I’ve forgotten the 3^rd line)

And we hope you’ll find it very tasty very sweet”.

Then Miss Purser signed herself “Little Gel”

Mr Cureton – “Curbolic”

Me – “Bovver Syd”

Mr Buttle – “Big Hearted Arthur” 

Then I took it to Mr Troughton.  He rang up about an hour after and thanked Mr Buttle for the cake & wished him many happy returns and asked who had signed the poem.  Then he said “I hear Mr Cureton and you were under a table in the London Tavern this afternoon”.  “Who said that” said Mr Buttle.  “Little Gel” replied Troughton.  “Wait till I lay my hands on little gel! I’ll give her little gel” said Mr Buttle.  But – of course – he was only joking.  Bed 12.20.

Friday 19^th April 1940

Home at 6.25.  That old Blue Pencil Simpson stayed out 3 hours for lunch and when he came back set the place in uproar with the different things he wanted.  I know what he wants – but I can’t give it to him.  Went to music and then to night school.  Went to the City library and got “The Bishop’s Jaegers” by Thorne Smith.

Dad brought home a pair of flannel trousers for me.  They fit fine.  Fred & Bill came at 20 to 10.  Read in bed.

Saturday 20^th April 1940

When Miss Purser came in I noticed she was wearing black – her mother died last night.  Mr Buttle said she shouldn’t have come in.  But I think it was the best thing she could do.  She isn’t one of those girls who could sit around at a time like this.  Home 1.30 had dinner, bathed, changed into flannels and went to music shop bought Oh Johnny Oh & Bring out the little Brown Jug.  Then went to Fred’s. Started at about 4.  Arrived Laindon nearly 7.  We had a strong wind against us & Fred kept on saying “let’s have a rest” Cyclometer 3046.6 went to shop, 3048.7 started for Laindon, 3073.9 arrived Laindon.

Fred’s mum & dad were out in the evening & us 4 were left alone (me, Fred, Bill and Kat)

Bed 10.30

Sunday 21^st April 1940

Up 8.30.  Did some digging & raised 4 blisters.  After breakfast we went for a ride round Crays Hill & all round there. Coming back up one hill we were 15 minutes and we had to take our ties and collars off.  Cyclometer 3082.9 so we did about 9 miles.  When we got back we climbed up a tree to read.  Then we went to his aunt’s house – (there is no one living there). Then we had drinks.  Then went for a little ride.  Came back to read. Then had tea. then we went to a pond & all went up to our ankles in mud.  Left 6, home 7.45 had 2 stops averaged just over 12 m.p.h.  Cyclometer 3084.0.  left 3106.7 arrived then went to get some drinks.  Arthur Major & his wife were talking to us and we asked him in.  They left just after 12.  If seems that Mrs Major used to go to Russel Road Central Schools with Miss Purser.  And the character she has given Miss Purser.  I had my opinion of her for some time and this verifies it.  Ern came in at 12.15.

Book 10

Monday 22^nd April 1940

Felt terrible until the afternoon, nothing I did could get rid of the horrible feeling.  Nearly fell asleep once or twice.  During lunch time I went to the library & got ”Amazing Spectacles” by Noel Godber.

Home at 6.  Went to library got “The Evening Standard 2^nd book of Strange Stories” “Find Actor Hart” H.S. Keeler.  Went to Night-School. Was talking to the chap who is going in for the same exam as me.  And found that Philpot is the chairman of his firm & that he has seen Miss Bolitho.  What a small world it is! Arranged to meet Fred on Wednesday. Went to the station to take my season ticket form on the bike.  Bed 10.30.

Tuesday 23^rd April 1940

We’ve got to save paper so I might as well do my bit.  My nose bled about 12.  Mr Buttle is going to buy some flowers for Miss Purser.  We all signed a card with our sincere sympathy.  Went to night school. Exam is a week today.  Home 10 to 10 as I went for a walk with Peter.  Bed 11.  Mr Richards lent me a bookkeeping book to study.

Wednesday 24^th April 1940

Went to library in lunchtime got “William The Detective “ R Crompton.  

Captain Broughton came in.  

Went to Odeon with Fred in evening saw “Hitler Beast of Berlin” & “Adventure in Diamonds”

Bed 11.30

Thursday 25^th April 1940

Captain Broughton came in.  Miss Purser didn’t come in – her mother’s being buried today. Home at 6. Went to Fred’s Aunt at Barking with him on the bikes, we went for a ride by the creek.  When we got back  we went for a ride round. Home 10.30.  Went to library in lunch hour and got “Twin Bedsteads” by Noel Godber.

Friday 26^th April 1940

Went to library in lunch hour  – got “Keep it Dark” by N. Godber.  Went to music & night school in evening.  On Friday night there is 4 or 5 chaps at the School who have got a band & they were rehearsing while we were there & they are really good.  Bed 11.20.

Saturday 27^th April 1940

Simpson went out so we didn’t get away till 10 past 1. I didn’t go out on the bike Fred came round.  Went to dad’s shop for a pair of shoes after tea. Bed 11.20

Sunday 28^th April 1940

Up 10.30 after dinner went out on the bike did over 20 miles went out again after tea & got a puncture so I did some bookkeeping.  Bed 11.

Monday 29^th April 1940

The Captains of the Marie Dawn (Lawuer)^II and New Lambton^III (Gibbins) came in.  Captain Broughton came in, in afternoon.  Went to Night-school in evening & ordered one of those bookkeeping books.  Mr Richard will get it for me.  When to Freddie’s after.  I am going to see him Wednesday.  Went to City library. Got “The Jovial Ghosts” by Thorne Smith.  It is the story of those “Topper” films.^IV

Tuesday 30^th April 1940

Went in for the exam in evening.  Met Langford at the Broadway.  It was a stiff exam & the 2 ½ hours went very quickly.  We walked home.  Mum painted the stairs & passage today.

Bed 11.20

Wednesday 1^st May 1940

Went to the library in my dinnertime.  Got “Skin & Bones” & “Did she Fall” both by Thorne Smith.

In evening went to Fred’s but he wasn’t going to the pictures so I went to the Greengate by myself.  Saw “The Wizard of Oz”. & “Chip of the Flying U”.  Home at 10.30 bed 11.20.

Thursday 2^nd May 1940

That Marie Dawn has caused us some trouble.  First a man falls down a ladder & nearly kills himself and now another has been injured in a knife fight with another Arab and we will have to repatriate him to France.  

In evening I went to Freddie’s and we went for a ride round.  Home at 10.30.  Stopped up reading, when Ern came in we sat talking for a long while.  Went to bed at 12.30.

Friday 3^rd May 1940

About 10.45 a telegram came.  I was just going to open it when I saw some writing on it – so I looked and it said  ”Cureton” so I gave it to Mr Cureton – I guessed what it was thought – as I gave it to him his hand shook but when he opened it his face lit up.  His wife has had a baby boy. He didn’t half get his leg pulled.  All day, Mr Collins kept popping his head round the door of his room and saying, “Here’s something else I want to tell you”.

Miss Purser wrote a parody on “FDR Jones”. 

In evening I went to music & then to night school.  Home 9.20.

The sun has been beating down on Mr Buttle all day today & he has been complaining about it so I promised to fix up some blinds for him, & tonight I got the screws and things.

Saturday 4^th May 1940

Started to put up the Sun Blinds, haven’t finished yet.  Home 1.20.

Mum went out in afternoon.  Fred & Bill came round at 3 and stopped for nearly an hour.  After tea I went to the music shop & bought “Oh Mamma Mia” “The Woodpecker Song” “You Made me Care” & “A Small Cafe by Notre Dame”.  Then I went to get some biscuits.  Listened to Garrison Theatre, it was the last one and it ended by Jack & Joan making up the perpetual quarrel and kissing and going out as lovers, Jack is going to change his bike for a tandem.  Big & Stinker were in it too.  Bed at 10.45.  Ern has bought a new Chromonic. (type of Harmonica)

Sunday 5^th May 1940

Up 10.45.  Uncle Albert came.  After I got ready to go out on the bike Ern said he wanted it.  So I just went round to tell Fred I wouldn’t be coming out today.  Up till dinnertime (at 1.30) I just mucked around talking to Vic.  Vic and I were playing with Pauline for some time.  She is a very amusing kid.  She’s not 2 till next week, but she’s very cute.  Joan & her pal were talking to Ern and I about bikes and he gave them enrolment forms for the N.C.V.  Ern went at 2.30.  just stopped in for rest of day.  Stanton came round about 4.30.  while we were listening to the Gala Variety  Aunt Jill came round.  The show was very good. Bed 10.45.

Monday 6^th May 1940

Met Peter coming out from the station.  We both bought a set of the new stamps.  They are jolly good stamps.  Mr Thurley, when he saw them, asked me for 2 sets.  Went to library dinnertime got “Say it with Flowers” by George C. Foster.  Went to Night School in evening.  Mr Richards had our books.  Went for a ride with Fred and Bill after.  

Tuesday 7^th May 1940

Nothing much happened at work.  Went to night school – my last bookkeeping lesson this term & one of the chaps arranged to come round my house tomorrow night & change stamps.  Just before we finished work Mr Simpson came out and said “He couldn’t see any reason why we shouldn’t have holidays this year, the same as usual.  He would be going away for a week on May 24^th and he would only be away that week, so if Mr Buttle would make arrangements he didn’t care how it was done so long as holiday didn’t clash”.

Late in the night Ern came in & we were talking about things and he said he had got the telephone numbers of a lot of famous entertainers, from the Trades directory, such as Arthur Askey, Weston Bros. etc.  and that reminded me about one entry in the directory about Babies Napkins Suppliers so I asked Ern to get it from his directory & I’m going to send it to Mr Cureton.

Wednesday 8^th May 1940

Went to library dinnertime and got “Don’t do it Doctor” by N Godber.  Ern was home early he had the cutting so I pasted it on paper and he wrote underneath “Don’t kill your wife with washing – let us do it”.  That chap came & we exchanged stamps.  Walter came.

I have arranged to have a week’s holiday on the 23^rd June and another week at the same time as Fred.  Went to Fred’s on the bike and we went for a ride.  Bed 11. 

I saw the A.M.P.C. (auxiliary military pioneer corps) marching to Fenchurch Street Station from the roof of Fenton House with Miss Purser, during the afternoon.

Thursday 9^th May 1940

Posted that letter to Mr Cureton at Fenchurch Street so as to make him think Troughton did it.  Peter rang me up and we went to lunch together.  He said that he had rung up the London Museum and the exhibition is from 10 till 7 and he is going to meet me on Saturday.  I asked him if he would come with me to see “Garrison Theatre” at the Palladium, Peter said he would, and then asked me if I wanted to go & see “Oriental Wonders” at the Stratford Empire next week.  He said the club he belongs to is going to see it next week & if I want to come it will cost me 1/3d but if I went by myself it would be 1/9d.  

The letter arrived at 1.15.  Mr Cureton came in about 2.15.  When he saw it he gave it to Mr Buttle & then rang up Troughton but Troughton swore he didn’t do it. So then he began to accuse everyone in the office (Mr Buttle) said that it was very clever. Mr Buttle & Miss Purser had an idea I did it but I think (& hope) I fooled them.  I managed to swerve the blame on to Mr Thurley. 

Peter Emanuel said that yesterday a notice was put up at Lloyds saying that Holland had been invaded.  When I got home Mum & Dad went out and I left Ern in while I went out on the bike.  I went to Peters & he is to see me on Saturday at 3 & I will not be going to the Stratford Empire & he is not coming to the Palladium.  

About 9 I had a collision with Bill.  He got a ripped tyre & inner tube and my back wheel was buckled.  It is going to cost me 4/- to clear it up with Ern.  So before I went to bed I left a note and 4/- for Ern.  Went to City library and got “The Clicking of Cuthbert” P.G. Wodehouse.

Friday 10^th May 1940

Ern took the back wheel off last night & I took it to Penny’s this morning and I will collect it tonight.  This afternoon that Arab that was knifed came in with another chap & it was a proper comedy with these 2 chaps and Mr Buttle. The Arab who had been knifed wasn’t so daft as he looked & he wanted some money but he didn’t get it.  Went to Music & collected the wheel, then went to night school.  I arrived at 7.45 & was the first one in.  Home 9.10.

Walter & Doris were here they went about 9.15.  Ern came in about 10.  After mum & dad had gone to bed we put the wheel back.  Bed 12.30

Saturday 11^th May 1940

Up 7.55.  Work 9.10. Home 1.3.

We will have to go in on Monday.

Peter came round in the morning & told mum he couldn’t come to the exhibition so I didn’t go.  Mrs Major was taken to the home & had a baby girl.  Went to library & got “Pirates of Venus” & “Tanar of Pellucidar” both by E.R. Burroughs.  Bed 10.45

Sunday 12^th May 1940

Fred came round for me but I wasn’t ready so I said I would be round his house in an hour.  Round there at 11.30.  We took Kit with us but Fred and Kit had a collision and we went home again.  In the afternoon Bill, Fred, I, and another bloke went for a ride all over Wanstead and we had a lot of fun over there.  Home at 5.15.  We were going to the pictures but I changed my mind and I went for a ride round.  I did about 60 miles I should think Bed 10.30.

Monday 13^th May 1940

Some Whitson holiday this is – I don’t think. Everyone is supposed to be working but only about 50% are.  That Arab who got knifed on the Marie Dawn came in again with an interpreter.

Went to library in dinnertime & got “Girls will be Girls” by G.C. Foster.  Home by 4.  Ern was in after tea I went for a ride with the boys.  Home 8.20. Bed 10.30

Tuesday 14^th May 1940

In lunch time I went to Gamage’s in Cheapside for Mr Thurley & when I was coming back I saw a music shop & got “Kiss in the Dark” & “No Souvenirs”. In evening I went to library but didn’t get any books.  Went to Miss Epsom’s for some music about 8 I went round to Fred’s.  Home 8.45 Bed 10.30

Wednesday 15^th May 1940

Went to library dinnertime & got “Hot Dog” & “Turkish Delight” by G.C. Foster.  Met Peter at lunch.  He joined the library.  He wants to see Garrison Theatre after all.  In the evening I went to Fred’s aunt with him. I found I had a 3 punctures & we broke the thread of the back spindle while we were putting the back wheel on. 

We came home at 5 past 11.  In the thunderstorm when I got home I was soaked through & through.  So I stripped & had a rub down to get clean things on & soon got over it.  But it was a ride to remember.  The driving rain & Pitch Black except for a few lights – hardly able to see a thing – the fear of the back wheel coming out making me go slow – I shall have to wear my best suit tomorrow.  

Ern was out when I got in but he rushed in about 12.15 & said he had dropped his Ronson pencil lighter.  So he put on his big top boots, got a broom & his big torch.  He got back about 20 minutes later but he had found it – or rather Arthur Major found it for him.  I told him about the bike & we changed it round to fixed wheel & it will be alright till he gets a new spindle.  Bed 12.40.

Thursday 16^th May 1940

Up 10 to 8.

Miss Purser was caught in the rain last night as well.  When I got to work Mr Troughton was outside the door.  He said he had been there ¾ of an hour (He always is a joker).

Home 6.10 .  Mum & Dad had gone out.  Fred came round.  He & Ern and I were talking for some time then Fred & I went out for a ride. Home 9.0 bed 11.30

Had to wear my best suit for work today because other one was wet.

Friday 17^th May 1940

Up at ¼ to 8.  I sent myself a set of centenary stamps through the post.  Miss Purser says they have an album at home with a lot of old stamps in it.  Her Grandfather collected them.  I advised her to get them valued as she says they are all nearly 100 years old.

Went to lunch with Peter in a little café he knows but I am not going there again – the mucky little hole.

Went to library & got “Death Squad of the Desert by T. Brenan.

Went to music in evening.  Bed 11.30

Book 11

Saturday 18^th May 1940

That letter came this morning.  Some twerp has pencilled all over the 3 lower values.  I had to make up another envelope and took it to the P.O. & also showed them the other envelope.  They said it was probably done on purpose by someone who didn’t like a little bit of extra work & said if it happened again I had better put in a complaint to the Head Office.  

I think these short skirts are making women round shouldered.  Half of them are leaning forward all the time to make sure their skirts are not blowing up & showing their legs and the other half are leaning forward, looking at their skirts, to make sure they are showing as much of their legs as possible.  

Went to City library & got “Horror on the Asteroid” by E. Hamilton.

When I got home I stayed in for a while and then went to library.  I met Doris Stainsby on the corner.  The first time I have seen her for over a year. She still goes to Lister. Several of the teachers have left & new ones come & Miss Horsefell has got married.

I will have to see her again sometime, for she was good looking when I knew her at Lister & she is even better now.  I got “Teamwork” by Joan Butler & asked them to reserve a stamp catalogue for me.  I bought a roll of film for my camera.  Miss Elson got for me “When our Dreams Grow Old”.

Fred & Bill came round & I rang up Ern to see if I could have his bike.  He said I could.  My 2^nd registered letter came – it was alright.

Sunday 19^th May 1940

Up 9.45 about 12 Fred and I started for a ride.  But on the other side of the ferry I got 2 punctures.  We came back and while we were mending them a policeman came along & helped us.  We went to Woodford in the afternoon and did about 30 miles.  In the evening I stayed in & read.

Monday 20^th May 1940

Went to library dinnertime. Got “The Gods of Mars” by E.R. Burroughs.  In the evening Fred & Bill came round.  Fred had got me a 10d stamp.  That completes my set of used stamps, and I want a 9d, 10d & 1/- unused to complete my set of unused.  Then I went to library & got “Bloodspots in the Sand” by Waterhouse & “Red Horizon” by R. Forbes.  Bed 11.30.  There were a great number of ‘planes about & I thought there was a siren wailing, but it was a plane.

Tuesday 21^st May 1940

There was a warden’s meeting in Fenton House today & Mr Buttle said there will be practice tomorrow at 12.  In the evening I did some Bookkeeping & went round to see Fred.  I stopped there till about 10.45. bed 11.30

We had to fill in our identity cards this evening.  The instructions came over the radio.  Things must be serious now.

Wednesday 22^nd May 1940

Things are serious. The Germans have advanced through Brittany and nearly cut France in 2.

Mr Thurley said they had a warning at Margate from 10.35 to 11.45 but Ramsgate had one at 7.30 pm.  He said that all the noise came after the warning and there seemed to be a big fight off Ramsgate.  We had our practice at 12.  Now all the people have moved from the basement there is a tremendous amount of room.

I went to lunch with Pete.  Went to library & got “The Rift in the Loot“ & “Sea Breezes” by C Foster. (George Cecil Foster)

In the evening I went round to see Fred. Home at 10.30.

Thursday 23^rd May 1940

In the afternoon I had to go to Lloyds & I met Peter. I went to music, my nose bled while I was there but it soon stopped.  Then I went to Fred’s we went out on the bikes & I fell over and hurt my wrist (That’s why my writing is bad).^V Home at 10.30.  3 tanks went through the City today and they literally shook the building.

Friday 24^th May 1940

My wrist was worse this morning and I’ve torn my coat.  I am going to the Doctors.  I left the office at 10.30 and went to Plaistow station & then to Kyndt’s (the Doctor), and then home.  Mr Buttle had asked me to bring up my binoculars because there are some chaps who get on Lloyds every dinnertime and he wants to see who it is. 

Well we’ve seen the back of Simpson for about a week and am I glad.

When I got home I managed my wrist.  Then I went out.  Bill, Ron & I went to the Greengate.  We met Fred in there.  We saw “Timber Stampede” “5^th Avenue Girl” and “Our Fighting Navy”.  They interrupted the programme to broadcast the Kings speech at 9.^VI  Home 11.30.

Saturday 25^th May 1940

We didn’t finish work till 5 to 1 although Simpson wasn’t there.  In the evening Bill & I went to the Odeon & saw “Tower of London” “Men of Africa” & “The Legion of Lost Flyers” Home 8.30.  

Nick showed me some rabbits they are trying to sell. In the afternoon I went to North Street Wardens Post & got the Contex put on our masks.^VII  Bed 12.  Got “Kiss me Again” & “Rhythmic Stakes”  Kiss me Again was 2/- wasted because it’s a song and not a piano solo.

Sunday 26^th May 1940

Up 1.30

Ern has remade his Polo Bike^VIII into an ordinary one and wants to sell it.  It looks jolly good too.  I stopped in all day until evening, when I went out with Bill & Fred.

Monday 27^th May 1940

Went to Greengate with Bill & Fred in evening saw “Band Waggon” & “Oklahoma Frontier” “Weather Flight” and “The Pointer”.  I am glad I went to see Band Waggon again – its so good.  When I got home Ern was working out some figures.  I did some and promised to finish them tomorrow if he will leave them at home.  At work, I promised to make Miss Purser a loose-leaf book for addresses so that she can type in the addresses.  Went to library got “Miss Boveley” N Godley.

Tuesday 28^th May 1940.

Mr Thurley is having a bad time lately.  He thinks that everyone must evacuate from Margate and is having a terrible time trying to find a house.  He did finally get one at Amersham (he wants to get there) but Mrs Collins went to see it & rung up T.H.C. and said it was no good – so he hasn’t got a place now.

 I nearly finished that book I’m making, I’ve just got to index it.

Stopped in all evening.  Had a long talk with old Reddin.  It enlightened me.  How any man could be such an utter fool as he I don’t know.  Finished of those figures for Ern.

Wednesday 29^th May 1940

Finished the address book.  Its jolly good, although I say it so shouldn’t.  Went to library got “Alias The Saint” L. Charteris.  Ern has asked me to type a notice, and have it put in Hallyers, about his bike so I did during lunch & going home I put it in.  Only 2d a week.  Ern & I went up the shop to see if it was in, about 8.  But the notice wasn’t in yet.  Coming back we met Queenie and Phyllis. We were talking to them for about 30 or 40 minutes, then I went to see the boys.  Home 10.45

Thursday 30^th May 1940

Went to library & got “Topper Takes a Trip “ T Smith.  When I got home, Walter had brought Bert & his girl Jean over in the car.  Bert was in France 6 weeks and got away from Boulogne last Tuesday.  He has had some excitement though.  He was knocked out by a bullet going through his helmet.  Been in bayonet duels, killed a sniper, had his boots shot off his feel and pinched a pair from a dead Frenchman.  

About 20 to 8 I went to see the boys.  I went to the music shop & ordered “The only One is You” “Melody Maker” “Say Le Giana” “He would Whistle”  and “In the blackout last night”. Home 9.30 Bed 11.30

Friday 31^st May 1940

Cureton started his holidays this evening.  Went to library & got “The Misfortunes of Mr Teal” L Charteris. Went to music.  Miss Elson started me on a big new book with some jolly good pieces in it.  About 8.15 Ted & Hilda came over to see Ern.  But he didn’t get in till after 9.  They went about 10.30.  then Ern & I balanced up his days takings at the shop.  Ern has hurt his bad leg so he massaged it with white oils.  Ern asked me to help him at the shop tomorrow. 

Saturday 1^st June 1940

They have got 4/5 of the boys home from N. France.  Ern had to take a stick to get along this morning.  If it gets no better he is going to the doctor but he will ring me up so that I won’t go over this afternoon as if he goes to the Dr someone will come over and help him. I was out when Ern rang up but Mr Buttle took a message to say I could go over this afternoon.  

When I got home I went to the music shop and got all but “He would Whistle” of the 5 I ordered. I left home at 3 and got to the shop about 10 to 4.  I found it quite easily Ern & a kid were there and another chap came after.  Ern’s leg is a bit better but not much we got home at 10.35.

Sunday 2^nd June 1940

Up early.  Ern’s leg was worse so we went round to Dr Kyndt  but he was out, but he called about 1 to see Ern.  Ern has got a swollen gland. He gave him some medicine & tablets.  In the afternoon, I went out on the bike.  In the evening Bill, Fred, Ron & I went to the Greengate & saw “The Lady Escapes” & “Joy Parade”.  When I got home Ern had gone out with Vic. Bathed & went to bed about 11.15.

Monday 3^rd June 1940

Went to library dinner time got “Rain in the Doorway” T Smith “The Ace of Knaves” Charteris.  Left office at 20 to 6.  Stopped in.  Ern’s leg is a bit better.  Got stamp catalogue from library.

Tuesday 4^th June 1940

Ern has had his papers down, he’s for the army and is to be examined Friday.  Dad rang him up to tell him & told him to go to Kyndt’s tonight about the leg.  When Ern got home he said Kyndt gave him medicine and liniment.  I hope he gets an exemption because of this.  And he is almost certain to get an extension of a few months because he will be no good if his leg keeps going wrong and if he gets a few months extension the war may be over so it seems that his leg was a blessing in disguise. 

I went to see Fred & we went over to Wanstead .  Those lumps they have made to stop aeroplanes landing are very deep & I pity any plane that attempts to land there.  Went to library in evening and got “Empire Postage Stamps”.  From 10 to 11 we could hear guns very loudly.  I think they were on the coast and they were not AA’s. 

Ern gave me 7/6.  Mr Sweetman said I was to have it for Saturday.

5^th June 1940 (Wednesday)

Ern didn’t have to go in as Sweetman gave him a few days off. Went to library in dinnertime and got “Chessmen of Mars” E.R. Burroughs.  Went to lunch with Peter.  When I went home Ern had gone to the Doctors again as he had been in terrible pain.  I went for a ride with Fred and Farrington.  Home 9.30.  When Ern got in he said he has to go for an X-ray at Poplar hospital tomorrow at 9.  Bed 12.35.

Thursday 6^th June 1940

Up 8.  Went to lunch with Peter. Went to library got “Code of the Westerns” P.G. Wodehouse.

Mr Simpson wasn’t back from the air raid practice at 3.  So I stayed in the office while it was on. Gibson’s are evacuating so Mr Gibson is giving up his Wardens job and Miss Purser has taken it over and I am deputy, so if Mr Buttle or Miss Purser were away I should take their places. Home 6.15.  went out for a while with Fred.  Then came back & stopped in.

Friday 7^th June 1940

Rang up Dad when I went to lunch to ask about Ern.  He said that the Doctors said it was a very interesting case and it would get better and it was nothing to worry about.  But it would keep him out of the army and they gave him a letter to take to the Board this afternoon.  Went to library and got “The Stray Lamb” & “The Night Life of the Gods” by Thorne Smith.

Ern has got total exemption from all classes.  The doctors gave him a letter & when the board saw it they gave him his exemption form.  Am I Glad!

Went to music & then to pictures. Went to Greengate & saw “Drums along the Mohawk” “The Honeymoons over” & “All Hands”. Saw Fred & Bill after.

Saturday 8^th June 1940

When old RJ went out for “elevenses” I went out & bought Dad a bottle of port for his birthday. In the afternoon Peter & I went to the Broadway and saw “A Chimp at Oxford” “Road to Singapore” & “Water Baby”. In evening we listened to Cup Final 

West Ham Won

 1 – 0

Ern & I nearly went crazy with joy.  But it was a close thing. Rovers nearly scored in the last 2 minutes.  Fred came round after.

Sunday 9^th June 1940

Up late. Didn’t go out till about 3.30 & then it rained.  About 8 Fred came round and we went for a walk and I raised 2 lovely blisters.

Monday 10^th June 1940

Got “ A Yank at Oxford” by A.P. Garland. Mr Buttle asked me to get him some Port so I got him a bottle.  Went to Pictures in evening (Greengate) saw “Max Miller” in “Hoots Mon”. Jolly good.  Also “Kind Nightingale” “Dogs & Dawgs” & “Benny Me & the Band”. Home 11. Ern has to see a specialist tomorrow.  Cureton came back from his holiday.

Tuesday 11^th June 1940

Italy’s declared war.  But she will soon be a liability not an asset to Germany.  

Got “Pagan City” by W.N. Chaplin from library.  While at lunch I tried to order some roses for mum’s birthday but I couldn’t get any so I asked at the office and Mr Buttle said he knew a shop in Leadenhall Market so I went round there and ordered some . 6 red 6 pink & 6 yellow at 4/- per doz was 6/- .  Ern went half with me.  Mum was very pleased & dad brought home a lot more flowers.  Fred & I went to Walters as I wanted to borrow some music but he did not have the piece I wanted.  He told me to tell Ern he was going to Reigate tomorrow & wouldn’t be back till 9. 

When I got home Ern had returned from the hospital.  The Specialist said that it was nothing serious and he would get over it. But he has to go for massage on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  He said he saw the Frenchman Villain who comes in our office.  Ern said every time anyone passes him he says Bonjour, bonjour.  And he was smoking French cigarettes incessantly.  He kept wandering around and once he went into the lady’s lavatory but it seems there was no-one there.  Uncle Bob came round.  When I told Ern what Walter said he phoned him up because it seems they are having a final binge for Ted as he is going away Thursday.  Ern, Ted, Violet & Hilda are going.

When Ern rang up Walter he could get no reply so he asked me to go to Ted’s house in Grundy St. to say that Walter could not take them up to the West End but he would try to arrange for Walter to bring them home and would let him (Ted) know tomorrow what he will be doing.  About 10 I rang up Walter for Ern and I arranged that Ern will ring up Walter as soon as they come out of the theatre. And if Walter can pick them up in time they will go and have supper and meet him later.  If Walter cannot fetch them they will come home by taxi or something. 

Coming back from the phone I met Denis and stopped talking to him. Bed 11.45.

Wednesday 12^th June 1940

Uneventful day.  Had haircut.  I didn’t go cycling as I had a headache.  Bed 10.30

Thursday 13^th June 1940

Old Cureton’s after another job.  He gave me a letter dinnertime addressed to Box 823 Lloyds List, Lloyds EC3.  So I looked up the ad and it says West Coast shipbrokers require clerk.  Good knowledge custom house work etc   I took round during lunch.  

Went to library and got “Traitors’ Market” by Grierson Dickson.  Fred came round in evening & we mended a puncture & went for a ride to Woolwich.  When we got back Ern and Vic were in and we went round to the off licence to get some drinks.  Bed 12.

Friday 14^th June 1940

Got “Alf’s Carpet” by W.U. Darlington from library.  Miss Purser started her 2 weeks holiday.  Dad starts his tomorrow.  Went to library with Fred, didn’t get any books. Mr & Mrs Brett came in, they are going to buy Ern’s bike for Bert.  It is arranged for £2.10/- & Ern is to put a few more things on it.  Went to music too late so I am going tomorrow.  Bed 11.30.

Saturday 15^th June 1940

Cureton didn’t half get mad this morning because Simpson didn’t use the mistake indicator on the Dictaphone & he kept making mistakes and had to retype letters.  We finished at 1. Fred & I went to the music shop & I bought “Ha would whistle”.  I went to music.  Stopped in during evening most of the time.  Ern finished the bike & I tried it out.  It goes jolly fine.  And they are getting a bargain.  Bed 11. 

Sunday 16^th June 1940

Up 12.  U. Bob came round.  Mr Brett came for the bike. 

Bathed in afternoon.  Fred  came round. We went for a walk in the evening. Home 9.15.  Everyone was out. Mum & Dad came in at 11. Had supper. Bed 12.30.

Monday 17^th June 1940

Had a terrible day at work, had to type some credit notes & a lot of other things I have never done before because Miss Purser is away.  When I got home I had a headache and I felt sick but a glass of Andrews put me right and I cleaned up my bike.  Went to library & got “The Little Nugget” Wodehouse.

I lent Ern my tickets for the library up the top.  Dad went for a ride round & booked for some shows and found the times of “Gone with the Wind”.  Mum and he are going to see it Wednesday.

Tuesday 18^th June 1940 

Had to make out a receipt today – first time I’ve ever done that.  Went to library & got “Great Asiatic Mysteries” by Charles Law.  I have been doing some work for Mr Collins these last few days and I finished it today .  He gave me a 1/- for doing it.  Home 5 past 6.

Mum & Dad went to Granada.  I went for a ride with Fred.  We went through Blackwell Tunnel, through Charlton to Woolwich & over the Ferry & home.  We did about 7 miles.  From ¼ past 9 I was in the kitchen reading . Ern came in about 10.15 Mum & Dad at 10.30.  “Great Asiatic Mysteries” is extremely interesting and Ern wants to borrow it.  Bed. 12.10.

Wednesday 19^th June 1940

Up 7.50 Mum & Dad are going to see “Gone with The Wind” & “Garrison Theatre” today.  Went to library & got “Great Australasian Mysteries” by Michael Glenne.  Home 6.20. made tea.  Fred came round at 7.  Went at 20 to 8. I stopped in & read. Mum & dad were in at 9.30.

Thursday 20^th June 1940

Simpson went home at 5.15 tonight so I was able to do a lot of tomorrows work and we left at 5.30.  Mum & Dad went out and at 7.30 I went to see Fred but he was messing about with his chemistry and I came back.  As I was coming home I met Mr Richbell and stopped talking for some time.  I met Denny and with another chap we went for a ride round.  Went in at 10.  Ern was in. Mum & Dad came in at 10.30. bed 11.50.

Friday 21^st June 1940

Went to music in evening.  Played about with Lenny, Len and Nick after.  Dad & Mum told me they have bought a bookcase and it being sent round Tuesday next.  

Saturday 22^nd June 1940

Simpson hasn’t come in so we may get away early.  Home 1.15.  After dinner Dad & I went to Beckton Road Rec. Ground and had 2 games on the putting green.  Dad won the first 62 63 and we tied the 2^nd at 60 60 which means dad has won 5 games I’ve won 4 and we have tied 1.  When we got back I went to the music shop & bought “Too Romantic” & “Sing A Round Up Song”.

After tea Mum Dad & I went to the Stratford Empire and saw “Entente Cordial” Home 8.45 bed 10.15

Sunday 23^rd June 1940

Up 11.30 I started to sort out all my things after breakfast so I could put them in my bookcase.  Joan came round, her bike was a bit decrepit – her tyres wanted seeing too.   Fred came round so the 2 of us mended it for her after dinner Joan & her pal went out for a ride, Fred and I followed them but lost them at East Ham so we went to Woolwich.  When we were nearly there Fred’s lamp bracket broke so we had to come back.

Bashford, Denny, Nick and I have arranged to go to a dance at the hall in the Broadway tomorrow night so I asked Fred to come but he wouldn’t.  Had tea & bathed.  Then went out with Den, as I had arranged not to see Fred till Tuesday.  When we got home Mum said Fred had been “about tomorrow night” so Den & I went round to him but he had gone out with Bill.  He called again at my house later but I couldn’t be bothered to go round to him again. 

Monday 24^th June 1940

(Written in an Air Raid).  Mr Buttle asked me to get him some sugar as his wife had used up all theirs on things for soldiers so I said I would get some.  He also asked me to get some thread for sewing together carpet slippers his wife is making for some wounded soldiers.

( I stopped here because everyone was talking and I couldn’t concentrate on what I was doing)

I tried to get the thread during my lunch hour but I failed.  But I got it in a boat shop at home.  Denis went out so I didn’t go to the dance as arranged.  I went to see Fred but he was at the pictures. Came home and met Dave Robinson & Jacky Tunnage and we went for a walk.  Home 10.50.

The war will be over for France tonight at 12.35 – 6 hours after they signed with Italy.^IX  I wonder what is really behind it all.  Bed 11.45.  Went to library and got “The Girl Boy Mystery” by Wade. 

Tuesday 25^th June 1940

The warning went off just before one.  Dad woke me and we were all down in a few minutes.  I kept up my record and didn’t get out till I was fully dressed.  Ern was out but came in at 1.30.  He said he had been at the Greengate. The Trolley Buses dumped their passengers and went to the garage he said.  Ern met an R.A.F. man who wanted to get to Hornchurch.  He had been told to report for duty at 10.50 but couldn’t get down.  

Went into the garden Majors & Reddin were in the shelters and we spent most of the time talking to them.  It was made into a joke by us and everybody was laughing.  A voice was enquiring were Joe was and several people told him and afterwards another voice inquired whether Joe wanted a cup of tea.  Several folks called out “yes”.

Just after 3 we went to bed again and Dad said the all clear went about 4.  Work about 9.15.  Mr Buttle was very pleased with the sugar and thread.  He had a 3 hour warning and so did Cureton & RJS.  I don’t know about CWT or THC.  Thurley said they were up.  When I got home the new bookcase had arrived.  Dad is having it as there are only 2 drawers, and I am having the old one.  I spent a busy night transferring my things to it.  

When I had just finished it 2 wardens came to the door and asked if we would form a stirrup pump team of 8 persons.   We were talking for about ¾ of an hour and it was arranged I should get the names and do all the necessary arrangements.  So I will be in charge of a lot of chaps older than me.  Mr Newman (one of the Wardens) said he would have a pump^X and our house would have the other.  I have got 5 so far, Mr Newman, Ern, Vic, Arthur, and myself.  I’ll get the others tomorrow.  Fred came round earlier and I explained why I wouldn’t be coming out for a ride but promised to go out tomorrow.

When the wardens had been I realised I would be busy tomorrow and went to see Fred and tell him.

When Fred first came round I got him to go to the music shop & order “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” & “Don’t Ever Pass Me By”.

Wednesday 26^th June 1940

RJS, CWT & THC had warnings last night.  Went to library & got “The Other Half” by John Worley   Mum & Dad were out when I got in.  Ern came in & we went round and got the 8 names, they are Ern, me, Terry, Arthur, Vic, Albert, Bob & Mr Newman.  About 8.45 I went to see Fred, left about 9.45.  He is coming to see me tomorrow.

Book 12

Thursday 27^th June 1940

Ern has taken over that stirrup pump scheme – after I said I would do it.  He might have let me carry on once I had started.  Fred came round.  We met Den & Len and we went for a ride over Whips Cross, home about 8.30.  Den & I stayed out till about 10.  Went to library & got “Tombs Travel & Trouble” by L Griswold.

Friday 28^th June 1940

Got “My Jungle Trails” by A.H. Verrill from library.  Home at 7.15 in evening – I was kept for ¾ hour in the barbers.  Went to music.  Mr Buttle asked me if I could get any butter for Mr Thorley’s invalid son.  I said I would try.

Saturday 29^th June 1940

Went to the music shop and got my music.  The lady in the shop said she used to know Walter.  It appears Hilda mentioned me and Walter when she was round there once.  It must have been several years ago since Walter took her out.  She said it was when he worked at the shop in Green Street & knew Sid Randall.  

I went round to get some biscuits and asked Hilda her name, its Eva.  Coming out of the shop I met Queen & Phyllis .  Queen  said John will be home tomorrow or Monday.  Mum is going to ask Walter about her when he comes on Monday.  Mum got some butter but as Mr Thurley doesn’t come in on Saturday I didn’t take it.  Mr Buttle said if it lasts I could bring it on Monday.  

We were held up for 30 minutes at Plaistow Station this morning.  I got in at 9.45.  I found out after a man had fallen on the line at Upton Park and they had to cut the current off to get him out.  

Ern, Dad & I went to Becton Road and played on the putting green.  Ern won both times.  He broke our record twice.  In the evening I went to the Broadway & saw, “We’re in the Army Now” & “Swiss Family Robinson”.

Sunday 30^th June 1940

Up 11.30 Uncle Albert came.  Fred came, we are going out this afternoon.  We went for a ride round the city on our bikes.  In the evening I stopped in and finished tidying up my bureau.  And bathed after. 

Monday 1^st July 1940

I bought that jitterbug song “In the Mood” today.  Simpson left at 12.45 so I got away at 5.20.  home at 5 to 6.  Stopped in all evening.  Bed 11.45.

Tuesday 2^nd July 1940 

Went over to Walters in evening to get some sugar but he wouldn’t let me have any.  When I got back I began to clean up my bike.  When it got dark I had to leave it so I will have to finish it Friday.

Wednesday 3^rd July 1940

Went to library & got “The Prince & Betty” by P.G. Wodehouse

Went to pictures at the Odeon & saw Mae West and WC Fields in “My Little Chickadee” the other films were “Missing Evidence” “Behind the Guns” & “The Worm Turns”. Home 11.30

Thursday 4^th July 1940

Went to library got “Hell Riders” by Patrolman Garcia.  Home 6.30.  went to Greengate with Fred saw “French Without Tears” “Island of Missing Men” “Behind the Guns” and an advertising Film with Oliver Wakefield.

Friday 5^th July 1940

Got “Knight Templar” by L Charteris from library.  Jules William came in this afternoon.  Every Friday when he & the woman who is looking after him come in, the office becomes a farce – especially when you get Buttle, William & this woman all talking at once.

When I got in this morning Mr Buttle said he saw last night German Communique printed in the Evening News that the “Illustrious” had been sunk.^XI  I hope it hasn’t because Eric is on board, Mr Buttle has actually altered with the worry of it.  Went to music.  

Saturday 6^th July 1940

Mr Buttle hasn’t heard anything about the “Illustrious” yet.  Went to the library & got “The Last Hero” L. Charteris.  Fred & Bill came round in the evening & I went round Fred’s house with them.  Fred and I went to his aunts at Barking.  Fred is having his holiday from the 22^nd to the 28^th of July.  Home 9.25.

Sunday 7^th July 1940

Up 11.45 Fred came round with his bike in the afternoon.  We were going for a ride to Buckhurst Hills but something went wrong with his bike so we came back.  In the evening we went for a ride round Barking. 

Monday 8^th July 1940

Home 5.50.  Went to Odeon saw “The Invisible Man Returns” “2 Smart Boys” “Mother Plato” & “Westward Ho 1940” Met Peter and some other chaps after.  Home 11.15.

Tuesday 9^th July 1940

Got “The Happy Highwayman” L. Charteris.  Gave Freddie 2/- towards a saddlebag he bought as he is 16 today.  Fred & I went for a ride. Back 11.45. 

About 12  I heard a plane circling around the N.E. or N.NE & I’m sure it was a German.

Wednesday 10^th July 1940

Got “Don’t Get Me Wrong” Peter Cheyney.  When I got home Mum was out.  She was at Wilson’s having her eyes tested, she had to have 2 pairs of glasses.  Fred & I went to Granada saw Max Miller in “The Good Old Days” “Calling All Marines” & “Westward Ho 1940”.  Home 10 past 11.

Thursday 11^th July 1940

Got “Follow the Saint” Charteris.  Home 5.30

Went to Greengate with Fred saw “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” with Charles Laughton and Claude Hulbert in “Honeymoon Merry-go-round”. Home 10 to 11.  Dad got our tickets for “Garrison Theatre” next Tuesday 2^nd House.

Friday 12^th July 1940

Got “Prelude for War” Charteris, went to music.  Freddie didn’t come round thought he said he would.

Saturday 13^th July 1940

Mr Simpson, Miss Purser & I were there by ourselves this morning.  Peter rang up to see if I had booked up for the palladium as he wanted to come, but as I had booked he can’t come.  I went home with him. Got “This Man Is Dangerous” by Peter Cheyney from the library.  Went to the music shop and got “Playmates” “Watching a Man Paint a Fence” & “The Singing Hills”.  Went to the library with Fred got “Modern Stamp Collecting”  by F.G. Melville, & “Modern Conjuring by …..

Fred & I went for a ride in the evening and got lost . Home about 10.

Sunday 14^th July 1940

Today is the anniversary of the fall of the Bastille in 1790.  Churchill mentioned it in his speech this evening.  He made a wonderful speech.^XII  In the news they gave a recording of a raid on a convoy & Charles Gardner described how the British planes came up & shot some down and got rid of the others.  One of our planes had its engines damaged – as it flew overhead we could hear its engine missing.  

It’s coming to a fine thing when they broadcast a battle in the air – a far cry from the time when it took weeks for news of any battles to get from France to the north of England as it did in the 100 years’ war etc.  

I got up at 1.  Fred and I went to the Crystal Place in the afternoon.  It is a dead and alive hold now.  We were out about 3 hours and we spent nearly an hour there.  We went through Blackwall Tunnel going and then followed a 108 bus when we started my cyclometer was at 3941 miles and when we got there it said 3953.9.  We came back by following a 75 bus and coming over the Ferry when we got home the cyclometer was at 3967.3 miles.  Fred came round at 8.30 and we spent some time talking , he left about 9.20.  About 11 several planes came over and the searchlights came up.  Bed 11.45.

Monday 15^th July 1940

Buttle was supposed to start his holiday Saturday but he came in this morning.  Mr Buttle did a good bit of detective work yesterday.  It appears that yesterday afternoon he saw a shifty looking fellow walking along with a bundle under his arm.  He kept looking over his shoulder and after a while he threw something in the hedge.  So Mr Buttle told his wife to call the Flying Squad, and he went after the fellow.  He found it was a London Telephone Directory with some pages torn out that had been thrown away.  So he followed this chap and when the flying squad came up he sent one chap to see if anything was missing from the telephone kiosk near his house.  The policeman came back & said yes the L to Z London Directory was missing so they sent one policeman back for the book and the rest got this chap.  When they grabbed him he started off in some foreign language. But of course, they couldn’t understand him.  In the car they searched him and found the missing pages – they were all the important places like power stations he had got from the book.

They still don’t know why he wanted them but they said they will find out all there is to know.  Mr Buttle had to make a statement and he will have to appear at London, somewhere.  The police said it was a very smart piece of work.  

In the evening I went with Ern, Vic & Arthur to the Stirrup Pump Demonstration at Prince Regent Lane Fire Station.  We only got one pump so we are keeping it.

Tuesday 16^th July 1940

Freddie was supposed to come round at 7.30 but it was nearer 7.45 – he had to work late.  We got into our seats at the Palladium with about 4 minutes to spare “Garrison Theatre” isn’t bad.  Billy Cotton & his band were there, “Lillywhite” the negro trombone player dances, but he is getting on and isn’t so nimble now, but did he get clapped.  Just before that interview Jack Warner was giving an impression of Maurice Chevalier and he finished by giving a toast of France, the French people & Paris.  Some chaps dressed as police came on and the band played the Marseillaise, everyone stood up whilst it was being played.  Jack Warner is good & Joan Winer isn’t bad but after hearing her on the wireless & then seeing her she seems different.  I think most people got the idea she was extremely pretty, but she didn’t look it to me, unless it was her make-up.  We got home at 11.50.  I went to bed at 12.40.  

Got “Turnabout” T Smith & “Poison Ivy” Peter Cheyney  from library.

Wednesday 17^th July 1940

Got “Saint In New York” Charteris.  Freddy came round in evening.  We went round to see Stanton and I managed to get some sugar from him for the office.  Then Fred & I messed about for some time.  After he had gone I was talking to some of the boys.  About 10 Arthur knocked, just to say “Goodbye” as he is going tomorrow.  Terry came and we were all talking till about 11.  Arthur is very keen on going and he has promised to shoot down a German for each of us.  I’ve just remembered I have left something out so I will have to go back a bit.  Coming out of Plaistow station tonight I saw Arthur and when I got home mum was sitting with Cynthia on her knees.  It seems Yvonne’s mother has been taken to London Hospital nearly dead, they operated on her and gave a blood transfusion and of course Yvonne went to see her.  Arthur was getting rather worried so mum suggested she should look after Cynthia and he could go to meet Yvonne. Arthur & Yvonne called for Cynthia about 7 and said Yvonne’s mother is now much more comfortable and they think she will live.

Thursday 18^th July 1940

Captain Follet and his wife came in this afternoon.  Fred came round at 7.40.  We messed about till about 10.30.  Went to the music shop & got “You Gorgeous Dancing Doll”.  Bed 12.30. Heard aeroplanes about for a long while.

Friday 19^th July 1940

I got my 3 weeks wages today.  It is surprising the amount of different things I had to tell them today.  I took my books back to the library . Went to music. 

Saturday 20^th July 1940

Up 11.  Fred came in the afternoon & we cleaned our bikes.  In the evening I went home with him coming back it started to rain & I skidded and went over. I bent a pedal and the brakes shifted so I had to walk home. 

Sunday 21^st July 1940

I fixed up my bike.  It rained all day so we had to stop in Fred came round in the evening he is coming round tomorrow at 9.30.

Monday 22^nd July 1940

I was awakened at 10.15 by Fred.  He had just come round.  In the afternoon we were going to Beechen Wood but we were turned back by the cops at Swanley Junction.  Home at 6.30.  Bed 11.

Tuesday 23^rd July 1940

Fred came round at 9.10.  went to Leicester Square.  We got in the Empire (sit where you like 1/-6d) just as “Let George Do It” started.  Other films were “Know your Money” & “A call to Arms”.  We went for a walk round then had lunch then sat in the gardens.  We lined up at the Hippodrome early – we were the first in fact – and it was a good thing we did as there were only 10 seats left.  We had K3 & K4 – a good seat.  Black Velvet is better than Black & Blue.  Vic Oliver is very clever.  The situations are funnier.  We got home at 9.15.

Book 13

Wednesday 24^th July 1940

Went to Freddie’s at 11.  We went to Aldgate by bus, then I went to Fenton House & gave Tom a ¼ of tea for him to give to Mr Buttle or Miss Purser, and then we caught another bus to Kingsway.  Fred – the silly twerp – bought 2 seats at the Princes and while we waited to go in we went for a walk around.  “Shepherd’s Pie” is a jolly good show -just as good as “Black Velvet”.  When we came out it was raining so we hurried to the stall.  We got in just before Tauber came on so we were able to stay and hear him twice.  The films were “Just William” – the film of one of Richard Crompton’s books, “Untamed” & “A Call for Arms”.  We got home at 9.20.

Thursday 25^th July 1940

Fred & I went to Alexandra Palace in the morning had lunch there, but there is absolutely nothing going on there.  Afterwards we went on to St Albans.  Coming home I had some trouble with my bike, we got home about 10.  Cyclometer read-

Start 3988.3

Alexandra P. 3999.6

St Albans 4017.2

Home 4043.4

  Total 55.1 miles.

Friday 26^th July 1940

Stopped in all day.  Fred didn’t come round.  I was in the shed most of the day.  In the afternoon I took a snap of mum, 2 of Yvonne & Cynthia and 1 of Cynthia in the pram and mum took 1 of me. About 9 I went to see Fred – he had been messing abut like me all day.  We made some bombs by stuffing celluloid in tins and lighting it.  Home 10.30

Saturday 27^th July 1940

Up 10.30.  A bomb was dropped at Dagenham at 10 last night, 300 yds from Woodmansee’s^XIII & about 50 yds from Uncle Alberts place, 2 were killed.  Yvonne’s brother and sister are coming home today from Weymouth where they were evacuated to, so Yvonne went to meet them & mum had Cynthia.  I took 2 photos of her in the afternoon.  Fred came round for about an hour. I went to the library and got “Gibbons Simplified Stamp Catalogue of the World” & “Modern Stamp Collecting “ by F.J. Melville.

Sunday 28^th July 1940

Up late, didn’t go out till evening then I went to Fred’s but he wasn’t coming out so I went home and made a sign for the Stirrup Pump.  I cut the wood, put linseed oil & French Polish on and painted the letters cream. Took photo of mum & dad.

Monday 29^th July 1940

The cream letters don’t show up enough so I put a black border round.  I messed about in the shed.  After dinner Terry Parker & I went for a ride.  We did 30 miles. While we were out we passed 2 aerodromes and we watched the Spitfires & Bombers flying about.  Home 5.30 & I put up the sign.  Took the films up in morning got them at 6.30.  they are jolly good.

Tuesday 30^th July 1940

Messed about in the shed all day.  Mum said the sign didn’t show up enough so I went over the cream part in red and it shows up very well now.  Yvonne wanted some enlargements of the photos so I took them to Potters in the morning, they will be ready tomorrow night.  Fred came round so we went for a ride.  

Wednesday 31^st July 1940

This morning a kid ran into me in Tweedmouth Road & hurt himself a bit, still it will teach him to look another time because he is always in the road.  I ordered “Gibbons Stamps Monthly” from Hellyer’s today.

When I was going for the photos I met Fred. He is going to the Municipal College in the Autumn.  He said he had the materials to make an incendiary bomb so I asked him to bring one round and we would have a demonstration with the Stirrup Pump.  He came round about 6.30 with the bomb. 

When Ern came home we had the demonstration.  Although the bomb only weighed about 3oz we were able to give a good demonstration with it although the water was playing on it, it was red hot and still flaming.  Fred is going to make a better one by Friday.

Thursday 1^st August 1940

Up 8.15

I found a suitable tin & took it round to Freddie’s house at 9.20.  There was no one in so I left it with a note.  I went out about 11.30.  When I got to the Palace I found all the seats were booked for Chu Chin Chow for both of today’s performances so I went on to the Coliseum to see White Horse Inn.  It is a jolly good show with some fine actors.  When I came out I went across to the Duke of York Theatre to see “High Temperature” the “all bedroom” farce.  That was a jolly good show too.  Home 8.45.  I met Fred in Lane Road & he came home with me.  Ern & Vic were in Vic was reading & Ern was finishing off a door in the fence between Yvonne & us.  Vic went home after a while & then Fred went & Ern & I were by ourselves.  I told mum I would see White Horse Inn in the evening but actually, I saw it in the afternoon, Yvonne said Mum & Dad had gone to the Coliseum to meet me and take me in.  When they got in they said they thought I had bought a chair and gone for a walk, but when I didn’t turn up Dad said he thought I had gone to the Duke of Yorks.

Friday 2^nd August 1940

Up late.  I spent the morning and some of the afternoon valuing my stamps.  At 2.30 the men came and dumped a load of sand Yvonne had ordered, outside her house & Mum, Yvonne & I carried it through to the shelter & some job it was.  When we got it all in I began to tidy it up.  Valerie wanted to help so I let her hold nails and fetch tools for me, she seems to have adopted me for her stay here, still she’s a good kid.  I was supposed to have met Freddie at 5 where he works but I couldn’t get round, he called on me & we finished the shelter between us. 

Saturday 3^rd August 1940

Went round to Freddie at 2 & we made the incendiary bomb.  In the evening we went to the East Ham Palace & saw “Une Nuit Exatante” Home 8.30. went to music shop & got “I can’t Love you Any More Than I do”. 

Sunday 4^th August 1940

Up 1 p.m.  I continued valuing my stamps.  After tea Ern and I watered the garden with the Stirrup Pump, Valerie was watching us so I let her water the garden.  Fred came round & we valued his stamps.  Bed 11.

Monday 5^th August 1940

Got “William and the Evacuees” R. Crompton & “Keep out the Light” by C.C. Thompson from library.  We have found Villain a job as watchman on a French boat. 

Mr Buttle had his son home on leave for 6 days – 4 days leave & 2 days disability leave.  He went to Bermuda on the “Illustrious” after the French aircraft carrier and as he said, “They made him a good boy”. One day a plane crashed in the water and the pilot went down with the plane but the gunner got out but then the sharks got him.  Then next day 3 planes crashed on the flight deck.  Eric was next down, but the line which holds them back broke and he went over the edge.  He and the gunman were rescued and rather than lose the plane he swam back & tied a line to it so it could be salvaged.  The photographer who had been filming the other crashes took 6 pictures of Eric’s crash, one shows him just going over the edge.  Eric had to have his leg stitched up. When the Captain censored his letter home he put on it “He’s a good boy – His British” & he told him that what he did won’t be forgotten later on.  

Home at 5.45 after I got my tea I went to Freddie’s he came home with me and we talked for a long while after he went I continued valuing my stamps.  Mum & Dad got back from Brighton about 10.30.

Tuesday 6^th August 1940

Got “Nightmare by Daylight” C.C. Thompson.  Home 6.  Fred, I, & Bert Clay went to the East Ham Palace & saw “Don’t Blush Girls” but it wasn’t much of a show. Home 10.30.

Wednesday 7^th August 1940

What a day. Every damn thing has gone wrong.  I was glad to see the last of the office.  Stopped out till about 10.  Got “Enter the Saint” Charteris “At Dead of Night” CC Thomson.

Thursday 8^th August 1940

Uneventful day.  In the evening we were going to give a stirrup pump demonstration but mum got the needle and wouldn’t let us do it so I cleared out for a few hours.

Friday 9^th August 1940

Simpson didn’t come in.  Mr Buttle is having a week off starting tomorrow.  Home 6.  Went to music. Fred came round – stopped till it was very late.  Gibbons Stamp Monthly came today.  Got “Dames Don’t Care” P Cheyney & “Getaway” Charteris.

Saturday 10^th August 1940

Buttle Started his holidays.  Home 1.

Went round Fred’s & we went to the Odeon saw “If I had my Way” with Bing Crosby & Gloria Jean.  It’s a jolly good film.  Also “The Farmers Daughter” & “Miss Grant Opens the Door”.  Home 5 to 8.

Sunday 11^th August 1940

Got “I’ve got my Eyes on You” from Music shop.  I continued valuing my stamps & I’ve done about ½ of them now.  I went round to Freddie’s in the evening and he, Bill & I messed about till 10.15 when I came home.  Stanton came round & said if I wanted any sugar I could come round tomorrow.

Monday 12^th August 1940

Home from work at 6.  Fred came round. We went round to Stanton’s but he wasn’t in – he was at the Doctors in fact, through eating a lot of plums –  and he hadn’t told his mother I would be calling so they didn’t have any sugar so I am calling again tomorrow.  

Bill has got an allotment over by Prince Regent Lane & Fred and I helped him to clear away the thistles that were all over it.  We got rid of them but when it began to get dark we spent most of the time keeping the gnats away from us.  Home 10.15.  

Had haircut tonight.

Tuesday 13^th August 1940

Is there an exception to the rule that says there is an exception to every rule, only if there is any exception to the rule that says there is an exception to every rule, the rule that says there is an exception to every rule cannot be right.  On the other had if there is no exception to the rule that says there is an exception to every rule it is still wrong – what the heck made me think of that anyway.

Got “The Saint Goes On” Charteris.  This evening I helped Bill over his allotment again. We burnt up most of the stuff we cleared yesterday.  Home 9.30.

Wednesday 14^th August 1940

I made up a X word puzzle today.  SEC solved it & said it was easy.  I went to the East Ham Palace with Fred saw “We’re in The Army Now”.  There were 6 saxophone players in it, all with different sized saxophones and the effect was jolly fine.

Miss Purser is after another job.  She went out about 10 and got back at 3.45. and from what she said to SEC I think it’s at one of the ministries.  I have an idea she will take the job.

Thursday 15^th August 1940

I went round the music shop tonight but they were shut.  Coming I noticed all the A.R. P. personnel going to their posts. Went round to Freddie’s just as we were going over the allotment to meet Bill the sirens sounded for our 5^th Air Raid Warning, this at 7.15.  I got home on my bike and got the pump ready but nothing happened and we heard the all clear at 20 to 8.  We found out after they bombed Croydon aerodrome.  Afterwards I was with Bert Clay and he showed me models of planes that he makes.  Hitler said he would be in London on Aug 15. And I think most people thought of that when the sirens sounded and thought the invasion had started.

Got  “You Can’t Hit a Woman” Cheyney.

Friday 16^th August 1940

We’ve brought down plenty of Germans this last week – 60s & 70’s each day but yesterday we got down 144.  There are some fellows in the city who are paying a 1d each for every German brought down, to buy Spitfires.  They’ll be bankrupt if the R.A.F. goes on like it is.  

We’ve just had another A.R.W.  The sirens went at 12.25.  But we were in the office again by 12.35.  Miss Purser was out so Mr Cureton & I were wardens for our floor, the only other person on it was a girl in Mann Ruttersons we had 2 wardens and 1 civilian.

It all happened very quickly. Warning – leave what your doing – SEC grabbed whistle & mask – outside office blowing his whistle – I grabbed water bottles, mask, torch, helmet – rush out – go downstairs – it seems I did it in about ½ a sec.

I went out to lunch at 1.10 and was in the library when the all clear went at 1.15.  I rang up dad when I got back in the office and he said the alarm went at 12.15 and the all clear at 1.10.  Mum said he had best stay at home till the all clear so he had just got back when I rang.  We had another alarm from 5.10 till 6.10.  We had quite a good time in the shelter but we began to get a bit peckish towards the end so I am going to get some “Iron Rations” in.  

Home at 6.50

I went to music at 7.10 afterwards I went to the music shop & got “Meet the Sun Halfway”.

Yvonne came in to feed the baby later on and she stopped till 11.15.  Bed 11.45

Saturday 17^th August 1940

Cureton had to go somewhere about 10.15. and didn’t come back so when Captain Frollet came I had to go to the Customs & clear him – the first time I’ve been.  Frollet was telling about the damage the Germans did yesterday & Thursday.  They bombed Tilbury and blew the stern off one of the clan ships.  Killed 26 people at Northfleet and dropped a bomb on Bowater & Lloyds Paper mills.

Dad heard that over 200 people were killed at Croydon.  It’s quite possible because they have been burying people without knowing who they were.

I got home about 1.12.  Went to music shop & got “I haven’t time to be a Millionaire”.  I took my books back to the library.  About 8.20 Jack Parker and his wife came with their little girl – she’s 5 weeks old and they call her Martine.  They stopped till 10 so I couldn’t have my bath. Bed 12.

Sunday 18^th August 1940

Up 10.  We had an A.R.W. at 10 past 1.  Mum went with Yvonne down the shelter.  We had an idea there would be a raid because the balloons were up & we could hear planes.  People took shelter quite calmly – their getting used to it now.  The dinner was spoilt – still that couldn’t be helped.  We heard a thunk like a bomb once.  Afterwards I found out 1 dropped at Greenwich and 2 Jerries’ were shot down there.  The all clear went at 6 past 2 and we had dinner at 3.  Another ARW went at 17 minutes to 6 but mum didn’t go down Yvonne’s shelter as Mrs Major was with her but she continued preparing tea.  AC 6.13

I went to see Freddie after, stopped till about 9.  Coming back met Stanton.  Yvonne came in with Cynthia.

Bert & I were in the front room talking about music till it got dark then we came into the kitchen.  I gave him the music of “In the Mood”. Bed 12.

---

I: Wikipedia
A blue pencil is a pencil traditionally used by a copy editor or sub-editor to show corrections to a written copy. 
The colour is used specifically because it will not show in some lithographic or photographic reproduction processes.

II: www.wrecksite.eu
Built for French Govt, Le Havre; Main Owner; R. Colombier, Bordeaux, France; In 1939 vessel placed under the control of Ministry of War Transport (MOWT), re-named MARIE DAWN, and managed by the Mooringwell Steam Ship Co; Bombed and sunk by German Luftwaffe aircraft. On 02/11/1941 the MARIE DAWN was on passage from Middlesbrough to London, with 2,500 tons of coal, when she was bombed by German aircraft, 4 miles, 210 degrees from 59 A Buoy, Humber. The crew abandoned her at 11p.m. on the 2nd November. The vessel sank on the 3rd November 2 miles S W of H 2 Buoy, Humber. 24 crew & 4 gunners, no lives lost.

III: On the 4th of September, 1940, the following ships were attacked and torpedoed by the German Schnellboote or E-boat Flotilla, consisting of S-18, S-20, S-21 and S-54: SS Nieuwland (1.075 grt sunk by S-18 Christiansen) SS Joseph Swan (1.571 grt sunk by S-18 Christiansen) SS Corbrook (1.729 grt sunk by S-21 Klug) Fulham V (1.562 grt sunk by S-22 Grund) New Lambton (2.709 grt sunk by S-21 Klug) Ewell (1.350 grt not sunk by S-54 Wagner) while in escort from Sunderland to London.

IV: Topper Movies
by Michael D Walker on May 1, 2012
All told there were three Topper movies made in Hollywood. All three were produced by Hal Roach Studios, the same company that brought us The Little Rascals, Laurel & Hardy, and Turnabout (based on the Thorne Smith novel).
The first Topper movie was released July 16, 1937. It was based on Thorne Smith’s wildly popular novel. The movie featured Cary Grant, Constance Bennett, Roland Young and Billie Burke. This was Cary Grant’s first film as an independent actor. He’d successfully freed himself from the old Hollywood studio system which typically kept actors with a single studio and rarely granted them the opportunity to accept film roles at other studios. The success of this Topper movie skyrocketed Cary Grant’s career to new heights. It also earned Roland Young an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of Cosmo Topper. After watching his incredibly physical performance, I’m still astounded he did not win.
The second of the Topper movies, Topper Takes A Trip, was released January 12, 1939. This one was also based on a Thorne Smith book of the same name. Most of the stars from the first film returned for this one with the notable exception of Cary Grant, whose salary had soared after the success of Topper. He does appear in flashback sequences, which was accomplished using scenes from the first Topper movie. Roy Seawright was nominated for an Academy Award in the “Best Effects, Special Effects” category. Sadly, he did not win.
The third of the Topper movies, Topper Returns, was released March 21, 1941. Despite popular belief to the contrary, this was not based on a Thorne Smith novel. However, screenwriter Jonathan Latimer did a wonderful job in keeping with the zany spirit of Thorne Smith’s characters. Roland Young and Billie Burke reprised their roles as Mr. and Mrs. Topper, while Joan Blondell took over the character of Marion Kerby. Once again, the masterful Roy Seawright was nominated for an Academy Award in the “Best Effects, Special Effects” category. Unfortunately, he did not win. I don’t know about you but the Academy sure seems biased against comedy films when it comes time to acknowledge the best in film.

V: Transcriber’s note:  His writing is always terrible, I cannot tell any difference!

VI: HM King George VI – Empire Day Address
In the recording, the King said: ‘It is not mere territorial conquest the enemy is seeking. It is the overthrow, complete and final, of the Empire and of everything for which it stands, and after that the conquest of the world.’”

VII: Imperial War Museum  From 1938, in response to fears that air attacks on Britain might include the use of poison gas, the entire British population was issued with gas masks. Most people received the standard civilian pattern respirator. Air raid wardens, by contrast, received a higher grade of respirator. This is a civilian duty respirator. Unlike the standard civilian model, it features separate glass eye pieces, an exhalation valve and could be adapted to accept a microphone. Although poison gas was never used against Britain during the Second World War, masks like this became another common symbol of wartime life. Though masks were potentially lifesaving pieces of equipment, they tended to make their wearers appear terrifyingly alien and dehumanised.
Wikipedia
Air Raid Precautions (ARP) was an organisation set up in 1937 dedicated to the protection of civilians from the danger of air raids. It included the Raid Wardens’ Service that was to report on bombing incidents. Every local council was responsible for organising ARP wardens, messengers, ambulance drivers, rescue parties and liaison with police and fire brigades.From 1 September 1939, ARP Wardens enforced the “blackout“. Heavy curtains and shutters were required on all private residences, commercial premises, and factories to prevent light escaping and so making them a possible target for enemy bombers to locate their targets. With increased enemy bombing during the Blitz, the ARP services were central in reporting and dealing with bombing incidents. They managed the air raid sirens and ensured people were directed to shelters.

VIII: Extract from Cycling Planet by Gareth Collins re Bike Polo.  Played on fixed- wheel bikes. 
The sport grew steadily in stature since its inception, with its biggest moment coming as an exhibition sport at the 1908 London Olympics. Ireland beat Germany 3-1. As is the norm following exposure at any major sporting event, bike polo flourished. At its peak in the 1940s, there were over 170 teams playing regularly in England alone and numerous clubs were formed worldwide. Sadly, bike polo’s popularity has waned and since the War fewer and fewer people have been playing. However, a number of clubs continue to play competitive bike polo and there are organised tournaments, attended principally by teams from England, Ireland, Scotland, France, India, the USA and Canada.

IX: Wikipedia
The Franco-Italian Armistice was signed at 7:15 p.m. A very small zone of Italian occupation was established consisting of 832 km2 that included the port town of Menton.

X: https://www.ww2civildefence.co.uk/fire-tackling.html
Stirrup Pump
The stirrup pump could deal with small scale fires (usually caused by incendiary bombs). one pump per 30 houses or 150 yards of street were allocated. Wardens’ Posts always had a stirrup pump available.
A stirrup pump team: No 1 carried a torch, an ARP 55 axe and a whistle; No 2 carried the pump; and No 3 carried two water buckets, one for use as a reservoir for the pump and the second for transporting water. A team could pump 1.5 gallons of water a minute. It took up to 6 gallons of water to extinguish a single 1 kg incendiary bomb.

XI: Wikipedia
HMS Illustrious (R87) was an Illustrious-class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1940. In the same year she became the first carrier to strike against an enemy fleet and was in service until 1954.

XII: Wikipedia
Winston Churchill gave a radio address declaring that Britain would fight on alone, saying that “be the ordeal sharp or long, or both, we shall seek no terms, we shall tolerate no parley; we may show mercy-we shall ask for none”.
Speech available on Youtube NB often known as The War of the Unknown Warriors speech

XIII: Donald’s father Joseph worked at Woodmansee’s as a tailor.  They were based at 78/80 Wood Lane Dagenham and 750/758 Barking Road E13 which is probably where Joseph was based.  I found a 1941 advert for sale on eBay which stated Men’s’, Youths’, boys’ Clothing & Hosiery.  To Measure & Ready to Wear.

Book 14

Monday 19^th August 1940

Mr Buttle came back from his holidays.  He had the raids worse than us.  One of his friends was shot through the heart by a machine gun bullet.  He counted 12 bombs drop and he said 26 were dropped altogether East & West Molesey was bombed and a train was machine gunned.  He saw the train and said every window was smashed and it was a mass of holes, there was blood everywhere.  It was a Southern Electric train. An old man and his daughter who live near Mr Buttle were in the train and all you could see of the girl’s face was one eye, the rest was swathed in bandages.  Another train was in a station and all the people went down the station shelter and a bomb dropped right into it.  

Went to library & got “Charles Laughton & I” by Elsa Lanchester.  In the evening I went to the library & got Gibbons Stamp Catalogue.  Fred, Bert & I went to the East Ham Palace & saw “Ladies Be Good”.  It’s not a bad show.  We saw Ern & Vic in there.  Vic had the programme with the lucky number.  Home 10.45

Tuesday 20^th August 1940

Got “All Quiet On the Western Front” E.M. Remarque.  Mr Buttle told us that he found out that on Friday evening German planes were right over London.  

In the evening Bert brought his drums in and we had a swing session from 7 till 9.

Wednesday 21^st August 1940

Capt. Macaskill of the Woodstock came in , Capt. Broughton of the Doro Fedora has just arrived.  Capt. Macaskill told us of the following dialogue between a wounded Nazi pilot and a British nurse in a hospital.  

W.N.P can I write a letter to my Mother before I’m shot.

B.N. you won’t be shot here.

W.N.P. but they told us we’d be shot if we landed in Britain.

B.N. you won’t be although you deserve it for machine gunning civilians.

W.N.P. well you should see what the R.A.F. have done to Hamburg.

It’s good to know Germany is being smashed up.  Capt. Broughton told us that a German shot himself rather than be taken prisoner so they evidently do put the fear of hell into them before sending them over here.

Home 6.  Bert came in with his drums again.  Fred came round later.  When Ern came in later he joined us. One of Bert’s pals is interested in the Harmonica and Bert said he might buy Erns big one.

Thursday 22^nd August 1940

I’ve passed my exam.

The result came this morning.  So that’s one step nearer my ambition.  I went in for the exam on April 30^th so that the result has come through quickly really, last year it took nearly 6 months – or so I heard.

Went to library got “Secret Asia” by Charles Law.  In the evening I got a book of music from the library. & Bert & Fred came in.  Bert brought in a small accordion he’s got and I could play it as soon as I picked it up.  They stopped till 9.  Buttle brought in a postcard with “I’m dreaming oh my darling love of thee” on it with a picture of a soldier and a donkey and got me to send it to Miss Purser with “All my love” on it. 

Friday 23^rd August 1940

Another raid alarm. I woke at 3.20 am and could hear mum & dad calling & saying “look! There it is”.  Then I heard bang, bang. They were bombs dropping so I got out of bed and began to dress.  When I was half dressed the sirens went off.  Ern & I were down first so we helped Yvonne down the shelter – she said she had been up since 3.  After a while mum went down the shelter with Yvonne & Ern, Dad & I made them coco.  The ARW went at 3.30 and the all clear at 3.57.  We went to bed at 4.15.  the bombs seemed to drop somewhere over towards Wanstead & Leyton.  The Huns were right over us (I know that because the searchlights were nearly upright) and we could hear the Germans flying around, an AA gun seemed to be in our garden it was so loud.  All this happened before the warning, after it had sounded we didn’t hear a thing.  Newman the Warden said the Jerrie’s had been over all night.

Everybody seems to have had the planes over them.  Buttle, Cureton & some of their friends – they’ve all heard it, and all about the same time.  Miss Pursers card came this morning – of course I’m suspected – as usual – but I stoutly denied it.  Went to library & got “The Cave Girl” E.R. Burroughs.  When I got home Mum had Cynthia.  The poor kid had been bad & Yvonne had gone up the chemist. They got the kid better eventually and Yvonne stopped till 9.

Went to music.  Bert came in after. Fred has made him a wood block and we spent some time putting it on the drum with elastic, but it broke so we fixed it on with some of my Meccano.  While we were doing it Fred came round. At 9.30 Bert, Fred & I were out the front talking when we heard guns, they went home.  The guns got louder searchlights came out and planes were overhead so Yvonne & mum went down the shelter.  After about 5 minutes it quietened and Mum & Yvonne came out at 9.45.

Saturday 24^th August 1940

Another A.R.W. 8.28 am to 9.18 am.  We were halfway through breakfast, so Mum went down the A.R.S. with Yvonne and Dad and I finished our breakfast, Ern came down & had his.  Planes were going backwards and forwards most of the time, and as soon as the all clear went, Dad, Ern & I came to work.  I got in at 9.45 TEB & Simpson at 10.15, Cureton 10.30 & Miss Purser 10.50.  

They all said the same “Nothing heard except planes”.

I made a deposit of 3/- in the P.O. Bank today.  Got “Rag Time Memories” & “Dancing Time For Dancers” from Ebblewhites.  

Bert came in.  We had another warning at 3.47.  Bert and I were mending the Air Raid shelter door when it went so we just bashed in a couple of nails & took it through to the shelter.  Mum & Yvonne were going out they were at the gate in fact – so they ran through. They got me down the shelter. As soon as the A.R.W. finished we could hear bombs and guns all around – after about ½ an hour we heard a low pitched drowning – one that had been hit and was coming down  – lower & lower – louder & louder, all of us in the shelter looked at one another, Yvonne, Mum and I – will it hit us – will it hit us. -nearer & nearer – it’s over us – it’s passed over.  Those few seconds seemed like years & I’m sure I felt like a murderer who has had a last minute reprieve.  Soon after this I came out of the shelter and it quietened down.  The all clear went at 4.57.  

In the evening I went into Bert’s house and played cards with him, his sister Ivy & her young man Stan.

About 11.30 we heard several planes and the wireless went off.  A.R.W. at 11.35.  We heard guns & bombs immediately after. We saw 2 big fires from the front of the house one over Chingford way and the other towards London.  They were getting bigger and bigger and we could see the low clouds in the sky getting more and more fiery.  After about 30 minutes the one on the left (in the city) was subdued but the other one still could be seen dimly when the A.C. went at 1.25.  

The plane (or planes) kept climbing and then gliding down and dropping some more bombs, but I think there could only have been one plane because about 1.20 a screaming bomb dropped and immediately after A.A.s all went together and the all clear sounded just after, so I suppose they got him down.  I heard after on the wireless that it was in the city, and I think it was near St Pauls from what I’ve heard. 

Sunday 25^th August 1940

We went to bed at 1.45 and about 2.15 we all got out of bed because we could hear guns & bombs.  Yvonne came in and we made a bed for the baby on the chair with the back that can be put down.  We stopped up till about 2.50.

While we were watching the fires this morning a big crowd gathered and watched it – suddenly we heard a plane  – did that street  clear quickly or did it.  Later on the same thing happened again.  

Up 11.30.  Bert came in. In afternoon Fred & Bert came, we painted the Temple Block Fred made for Bert’s drum and broke the skin.  I’m going to enquire the price of a new skin at Ebblewhites for Ern.  In the evening Fred & Bert came again.  I had a bath. Yvonne was in our house and Valerie & her mother called, so we had them in as well.  At 9 when we wanted the news the wireless was very distorted, we got “Hi Gang” alright at first but it cut off dead about 10.  Fred & Bert went and Mum & Yvonne prepared to go down the shelter.  Yvonne’s mother went home.  The ARW went at 10.35 we heard a few planes & some bangs in the distance but it was quiet most of the time.  AC at 11.23.

Ern & I played cards after & about 12.38 we could hear planes about & just after that mum & dad called us upstairs.  We could see 4 lights a square on one point just like 4 candles in the air, they seemed to be perfectly still and went out one by one.  The ARW went at 20 to 1.  After we had got Mum & Yvonne down the ARS Ern went to the wardens post about the lights we saw.  The warden came down & we described the lights to him & he will put in a report.  A few searchlights were out but we didn’t see anything and the AC went at 12.55. It was our shortest raid – 15 minutes.  Yvonne came in and we sat talking till 2 and then we went to bed.  

The fire was at Aldersgate Street & Pour Street.  We still don’t know what the lights were last night, but they may have been flares dropped from a plane.  Some telephone wires were damaged by the fire.  I had to ring a firm in Cripplegate Bldgs.  NATIONAL 7282 but I couldn’t get through so I got the operator and she said the fire had put the line out of action. I know the exchange is not damaged because I could get Metropolitan numbers and Metropolitan & national exchanges are in the same building.  

Buttle said all round Kingston & Isleworth was damaged a lot, he seems to have had it a little worse than us but it was bad enough with us, bombs on Becton Road and all round there – in fact bombs were dropped all round us in a ring.  

Simpson & Collins didn’t hear a thing over the weekend, and then Simpson tells T.H.D. “I suppose we will get used to it” – the old !* why he’d run a mile – if he wasn’t afraid too because of his trousers if a bomb dropped near him.  They have dropped a bomb on Bow Cemetery where Dads parents are buried – they won’t even let the dead rest in peace. 

I’ve just finished a cup of tea after coming up from the shelter we were down there from 3.25 to 4.3.  we heard a few thuds but the ARS deadens sounds so they must have been pretty near. I hope they are all alright at home. 

Cureton just said that some time ago he was told that the June raid we had was not a raid at all but some French planes come over to clear out of France before the capitulation.  There were 180 planes and we shot down 2 before we found our mistake out.  But it was a 3 hour raid, and I’m sure it wouldn’t take 3 hours to find out a mistake like that.  

Bert came in for a while and afterwards I went into his house and helped him with his model aeroplanes. At 9.20 the wireless went off and I came home just after we go the ARW at 9.29.  all through the raid the Jerries’ were coming over in intervals of about 5 minutes and circling round, then going away.  We heard about 15 bombs drop at 1 time and there were a few more after.  But we didn’t hear any AA guns.  We were messing about playing cards etc and once mum came up and got something to eat for us all & I went down the shelter with Yvonne till mum came down again.  The AC went at 3.40 am so it was the longest raid we’ve had so far 6 hours 11 mins.  We got to bed about 4.15.

Tuesday 27^th August 1940

They all had the same thing last night except Thurley & RJS.  But Buttle heard a heavy barrage after the A.C. So they are still trying for Kingston.

Went to library & got “Panics” a book of mystery stories.  Fred & I went in Bert’s house. At 9.30 the sirens went so Fred & I went home.  Ern & I played cards, I cooked my supper & read so the time didn’t seem long.  We heard some bombs go off in the distance and there was some AA fire.  The planes come over at short intervals.  All clear at 11.51

Wednesday 28^th August 1940

The swine’s only gave us a few minutes to get into bed before they were over again.  ARW went at 12.28.  I just spent the time reading until 1.8 when the AC went.  The west got it worse again – RJS & CWT heard bombs fall near them.

Went to library & got “A Genius in the Family” by H.P. Maxim.  “The Mucker” by E.R. Burroughs.

Fred & I went into Bert’s house & played cards.  The ARW went at 9.  Fred stopped with us.  We heard planes at short intervals throughout the raid and there were many bombs dropped.  Just as I dozed off the A.C. went at 4.5am.  so this is the longest raid now. 7 hrs 5 mins.  As usual it was the same all over London.

Thursday 29^th August 1940

Simpson was up all night last night as when he came in today he said that 2 of us could have the morning off & 2 the afternoon so that we could make up any sleep we lost.    So it was arranged that SEC & I would go in the afternoon and TEB & Miss Purser take the morning for the rest of this week and we would change over next week.  SEC & I went about 1. 

I went to the library & got “The Man Without a Soul” E.R. Burroughs. I saw on a placard “Bombs on Berlin” Official – the best bit of news I’ve heard for a long while.  On the news at 6 it said some people were killed & some injured – maybe the Huns won’t be so keen of bombing London now they know what they get, and even if they do we shall have the satisfaction of knowing when the raiders are overhead, that the Germans are having the same thing and it will be easier to put up with. 

When I got home I had my dinner and tried to sleep.  But I couldn’t so I read instead.  In the evening I helped Bert to make his shelter safer.  We nearly finished it.  Fred came round for a while. Bed at 10.30.

Friday 30^th August 1940

First peaceful night for a week. Buttle & Miss Purser came in this morning as we had a nights rest and from now onwards we only stay out from work if our rest is broken.  

ARW at 11.46am.  Mr Cureton Miss Purser myself and a girl from Marine Rutter’s played cards TEB said he heard 2 or 3 bombs but I didn’t.  AC at 12.32

When TEB came back from lunch he said there was a cloud of smoke near East India Dock Road.  So SEC and I went on the roof but we couldn’t see a thing.

Next ARW at 3.18pm.  Miss Purser myself and Marine Rutter’s girl played cards.  I heard a few thuds.  AC at 3.32.  while I was at lunch I got Bert’s Drum.  Next ARW at 4.38.  SEC, Miss Purser, myself, Marin Rutter girl and RJS played cards.  RJSD won one game I won the other AC at 5.51.  Home 7.15.  Bert & I played cards.  ARW at 9.10.  I won’t think of everything that happened but briefly we heard planes or bombs all the time.  At 3.30 there was a terrible whistling noise just after some AA fire – it got nearer and nearer – we were all in the kitchen tonight. – then it was right over our heads & – Boom! – Boom! Yvonne grabbed me and went into hysterics.  We finally quietened her and then we tried to see what damage had been done.  There was an intensely white fire up the High Street.  We thought one bomb had dropped somewhere in East Ham and another in the High Street.  The fire died down & the AC went at 3.50 am.  So Ern and I went up the top as we had heard that a bomb had dropped in the Broadway.  When we got there, we found all the glass around shattered into small pieces.  We couldn’t get past the sweetshop on the corner of North Street because of a line of soldiers & HG’s and ARP wardens across the road.  But we could get to Martins etc, the line was like this 

• 

We heard then that one bomb dropped on the little Post Office & one on Byars Bake House.  When it got light Dad, Ern & I went to U. Bobs.  We could get to his house but May Road we saw was barricaded.  The other line of men stretched across High Street from Clegg Street to Bachms Walk.  So that you could get to the station. U. Bobs place was o.k. but Aunt Liz was very upset.  We went back along St Marys Rd and found out that Plaistow Park Rd was closed because a bomb dropped there.  That was why May Rd was closed.  There were a tremendous amount of rumours but this is the position.  A bomb dropped in Milton Rd East Ham and killed 3 people in a shelter.  One dropped in Plaistow Park Rd next door but one to Bert Clays relations – incidentally part of the ceiling of Bert’s room collapsed.  His relations from PP Road come to him, 2 men a woman and 2 dogs.  They were going to have a wedding today and a girl who had come from Oxford to be a bridesmaid was injured.  An old woman was rescued but there is no hope for her, but an old man was in bed who didn’t get a scratch though the roof fell on the bed.  One bomb fell between Byars and the little post office – one the women there is injured but best of all – the Hun came down in…

Book 15 – MISSING

Book 16

Continued from missing diary

Gate and just outside it.  I found over half a dozen bits round the streets and Ern found some bits as well.  Ern and I cooked our own breakfast.

I just messed about all day .  Bert got up to the L &T B too late for his interview and didn’t get the job.

We had 4 raids during the day.  The first 3 I was down the shelter but the last I spent listening to the news with Bert. The first went at 12.57 till 1.20 and I heard planes.  No 2 was from 4.1 to 4.18 and it was all quiet. No 3 was between 5.25 & 5.44 and in the distance I think I heard one gun.  The 4^th was the one when I kept out of the ARS and lasted between 5.56 to 6.24.  When dad came in he went to bed.  Ern brought home two more little lamps – one for us and one for Yvonne.  The ARW went at 8.12pm & lasted till 4.38 am.  We kept the Jerries away from us except for 2 or 3.  2 bombs dropped close to us – one in Selsdon Rd.  killing 2 people.  A fire was started in a timber place at Canning Town.  We could smell the burning wood with the peculiar smell which water gives it.  When the AC went we had a cup of tea, and then went to bed.  I never knew bed could be so wonderful.  After not being in it for 4 nights.  I had 4 hrs sleep.  When I got up I went to Walters place.  He doesn’t know what to do, his done hardly anything since Sunday except get his furniture out. I helped him for a while. I really went over there to get a drum to hold some more paraffin.  Walter said he would bring one over in the car.  

Our butcher, Minall, has cleared off now the raids are near us, and mum had to get some meat today at one shop in the Broadway and she will re-register there.  I had to go to the Town Hall to effect the transfer.  There were crowds there, of people who had been bombed & had shifted somewhere else.  Just as I pulled up outside our house the Siren went off.  It was 11.53.  I went down the shelter & we heard nothing. AC at 12.18 Dad got home just after.  I spent the afternoon condensing the contents of my desk into a small space & packing a case.  

It was quiet till 3.26pm I stayed out of the shelter till they got fairly close, after I got down the shelter things really started.  They weren’t too close but it was close enough for me, I could hear the burst of machine gun fire.  The bombs were fairly near but there was a preponderance of guns. The A.C. went at 4.41.

We had over ten down the A.R.S. for the second time in two days because we had another A.R.W. between 5.3 & 5.21. but all we heard were a few planes.  When Ern got home he packed a case.  He said that over Deptford he could still hear guns firing in the interval between the 2^nd & 3^rd raid he said it was idiotic for them to give an A.C.  He said between 5 & 8 planes were about down near them today – one  in the next street, that one made them think their number was up.  A Junkers was brought down on Blackheath yesterday.  

The other day Ern told me about a new fighter – bomber we’ve got.  It beats everything we’ve ever had before.  It will be called “Manchester —“ something.^III Well! Apparently, they had 8 of them made and tested & they were going to be sent up to engage the Germans today, and the Jerries blew the 8 of them to Hades.  There’s some 5^th column work for you.  A chap who has been working on camouflage told Ern tonight.  Just as Ern finished packing the siren went.  It was 8.34,  about 5 or 10 minutes after the warning we got a lovely row near us.  Bombs, guns & planes all together.  It is 9.10 now and there are still a few bangs in the distance.

Thursday 12^th September 1940

The all clear went at 5.37am.  this was the longest raid 9 hours 3 minutes.  It was the noisiest as well, but the planes were kept off – at least except for a couple but they did hardly any damage.  The AA Barrage was simply terrific and they’ve got a mobile gun that goes about all over the sewers and it came very close to us.  Still I wouldn’t mind if we had that every night if it kept the Jerries’ off.  The papers were full of it, and the American opinions of it.  It was all over the front pages of the various papers.

I had a few hours sleep during the raid, and the rest of the time I was reading or stuffing myself.

After the raid I went to bed for about 3 hours.  I got up at 10.  At 11.15 I got a letter from the boss.  I know Miss Purser is alright because she typed the letter.  I think Buttle is ok because the letter was folded the way he does it.  They are at Collins office at Oakfield corner, Amersham,  Bucks.  He said he would send me my wages till the end of the month but I had better look for another job.

A bomb dropped in Balaam Street and several were near us but that one was nearest.  In the afternoon I got a registered letter from Thurley’s with a week’s wages in it.  They repeated I had better get another job.  But I don’t think I’ll bother because I think they’ll keep me on.  We had an Air Raid Warning from 4.43 to 5.43.  But we didn’t hear anything except when one of our bombers passed over our heads.  It was very low too.

I replied to the firms letter tonight.

Next ARW at 9.13.  Ern said that he had heard planes about for some time and just before the warning the guns started firing.  I don’t know what the matter is with the officials.  They should be able to hear –planes long before we should and give a warning but so it was.  We wouldn’t let mum and Yvonne go down the ARS but made them come in with us.  All through the raid we would get a few minutes of gunfire then a few minutes of quiet towards the end though there was a long quiet spell and dad went to bed.  We must all have gone to sleep then because the A C went at 5.45 am but we didn’t know till I asked Mrs Reddin if the AC had gone, this was at 6.25.  We all went to bed then.

Friday 13^th September 1940

We had an ARW from 7.40 am to 8.35 am but although I heard both sirens I was too tired to get up.  Mum and Dad got up but Ern and I stayed in bed.  It was all quiet anyway.  We had another ARW at 9.49.  that was the only thing that got Ern up.  He has to go to East Ham to see the bosses today.  

About 10 I saw a plane come over from the N.N.E. it was very low.  Ern, mum and I went to the front door to see it again and as we opened the door, it dropped a bomb.  Newman was over the road.  He flung himself down as we heard it scream down, and we all fell in again and I pushed the door shut.  It hit my school – Credon Road and cut it clean in half.  Luckily no-one was hurt.  2 time bombs dropped in Western Road.  Ern went about 11.  After that we had a long spell of quiet and then a few bangs and then some more quiet.  About 1.50 I went to Dad’s shop.  When he saw me he decided to come.  As I turned into Southern Road on my bike the AC sounded.  It was 1.58pm.

We had another ARW from 3.56 till 4.15 pm.  And it was all quiet except before the ARW when I heard guns, and a burst of machine gun fire.  Mum and Yvonne went out shopping but I stayed in.  Ern came in again.  Mum and Yvonne got caught in the rain.  After tea Ern left us to go to Ilford to see one of his bosses.  Fred called round.  He said that 1 H.E (High Explosive) and 7 or 8 incendiaries were dropped on his work and many more dropped round it.  He was just going back to help finish the fires that had been started.  All but 2 of the fires were out and he said that probably one of these would be out when he got back , and unless the other reached the Cellulose place, they could subdue it by about 9.  Once or twice I looked over but I couldn’t see any glow so I presume the fire is out.

A strange coincidence occurred tonight.  Mum has got an extra blackout blind on a spring roller over the kitchen window, and when mum pulled it down tonight I asked if she had some way to keep it down so that it couldn’t spring up like Erns did when there was an explosion near.  Mum said she hadn’t and she didn’t think it mattered.  Five minutes after we were all sitting round and there was a sudden rattle that made us jump out of our skins.  it was the blind springing up.  After that I fixed up the curtains with a piece of string so that it can’t move.

We had the news on and just as it started Yvonne came rushing in and said, “the sirens are going”.  It was 9.2 pm.  Within 10 minutes the guns were going and now (10.40) the guns are still going.  I heard a couple of Jerries.  Ern managed to get in about 9.45.

It appears they cut my old school in half with a bomb.  Luckily no one was hurt.  The caretaker and his wife were in the boiler room.  Orwell Road (or Irwell) was slightly damaged, it was damaged before this week.  We will have to give Jerry a bashing for messing up my old school.

Saturday 14^th September 1940

AC at 5.30am.  All through the raid, the guns would be firing for a while – then a pause – then some more gunfire.  We all dozed in turns, and mum was the one who heard the AC first.

We’ve had 3 ARW’s so far.  The first got me up and lasted from 9.29am to 9.44 am and we heard nothing.

I was up the Broadway when the second one went.  It was quiet during the warning but the guns were firing before it went.  By the time it did go the streets were nearly empty.

I forgot to go to music last night so this morning I went to see Miss Elson but another woman told me they have left.

The third siren has just gone.  The time was 11.55am.  AC at 12.5 so this was the shortest raid.  The next shortest was on Friday 30^th August when we had a 14 minute one.  That raid was the 2^nd of 4 in a day.  We heard nothing so I suppose someone else was being bombed.  I went round to the bakers to get some biscuits.  Florrie has lost her home.  She looks rather bad.  Hilda was still joking,  thought in a slightly macabre fashion.  She said to one man for instance :- “I hope the Air Raids let me see you again” or words to that effect, I can’t remember her exact speech, because the sirens began their wailing and I had to cycle back home as quickly as I could.  The time was 3.50.  the AC went at 5.7pm  At the beginning of the raid I think it was 2 bombs that I heard drop, but maybe I was wrong and it was something else.  Mum and I saw 12 planes go over from West to East towards the Thames.  I thought they were fighting at first, actually 2 of them had lost formation and were circling to regain it.  After about 30 seconds they vanished into a cloud formation.  Mum and I were having tea when the AC went.  Bert came in about 6.  He stayed here during the 5^th raid between 6.17 to 7.14.  During it we heard planes at intervals and from the sounds I wouldn’t be surprised to hear a fight had been going on over us.

The 6^th ARW was sounded at 7.48 and lasted till 8.59.  we heard a few guns at the beginning but it was quiet after. 

Ern came in as the AC went.  During the news at 9 the announcer said we had only 5 raids today and missed out the short mid-day raid when he gave the times.  I think that this raid was only a local affair.

I don’t think there should have been so much fuss as there was about the damage to Buckingham Palace.  After all no-one was killed and the King & Queen are safe.  – they’d  push off soon enough if anything did happen.  Why should so much fuss be made of them anyway.  They are of less value to the country than the humblest worker in Britain.  In fact their only use is as a figurehead for the ignorant masses to look up to. 

We had another ARW from 9.41 to 9.55pm.  It was quiet.  Vic came in.  Mum and dad went to bed.  Ern, Vic and I played cards.  I went to bed at 11.20.  guns had been going at irregular intervals.  Reddin’s cleared off today.  And I am glad the ******************

Arthur Major came home today with the 9.29 warning.

Sunday 15^th September 1940

Ern woke me up about 1.45.  He said he had gone to sleep and when he woke Vic had gone.  Then the guns had become very intense.  The guns kept on so we woke mum and dad.  They eased off about 2.45 so we all went to bed about 3.00.

I don’t remember anything else till 11.54 when they woke me because the sirens were going.  The AC went at 1.10 pm.  The guns had been going at intervals and planes had gone over.  Bombs dropped in the distance.  During the raid I saw Bert and he said there had been a raid between 1am and 3.15 am.  So we went to bed just before the AC.  He said the gunfire was terrific.

At 10 to 2 we heard a time bomb explode.  

The wireless went off at 2.05 pm and we got an ARW at 2.20.  just after 2.30 a fight commenced overhead.  Ern and I kept look-out.  Once while we were looking out of the back door we heard a rattling on the roofs and then something fell on our roof, did we dodge in quick or did we.  At first we thought it was a Molotov breadbasket but actually it was machine gun bullets.  I found one after.  Dopey Albert Ewes was walking about while they were falling collecting them.  The fight went on for 20 minutes and then ———- we heard a whistling sound.  Ern and I raced in yelling “Down Down”.  Dad, Ern and I all crouched down by the wall – and mum just sauntered round the table and joined us.  I never thought she was like that.  For, I suppose, a ¼ of a minute it was sheer Hell.  Zing – Bang Zing ing ing bang ing bang bang bang.  About ½ a dozen bombs fell.  Time bombs as well.  Our house was shaking all ways.  We were thrown in the air and down again.  The windows were going in and out, it’s a wonder they didn’t break with a million bits because they were closed.  Maybe the brown paper helped.  Actually no description would fit what we went through.  When we finally picked ourselves up dazedly and looked out the back we could see nothing unusual. But when we opened the front door, you couldn’t see Tweedmouth Road for dust.  I was saying “there’s a bomb in Tweedmouth” over and over again, everybody else was talking and babbling away.  We went in for half a minute, then we went out again, the dust was beginning to clear and we could see Tweedmouth was all right.  Then we saw a man stumble across from Stirling Road to Southern Road.  He seemed dazed and was dabbing a handkerchief to his noes as though it were bleeding.  Ern and I were going to help him when suddenly a man dashed out from a house near the alley waving his hands and yelling “Help! Help! Help!”.  Ern, Vic and I dashed up there.  I got there first.  He led us through the 3^rd house into the garden.   In the next garden there was a bomb crater just outside the shelter where a 250 pounder bad dropped.  The shelter was all twisted and battered about.  We could see the bottom of it where the earth had been blown away.  The 3 houses were in a bad enough condition, but the shelter – it was terrible.  From nowhere it seemed a dozen or so men appeared and they all set to work tearing the shelter apart to get the occupants out.

I wrote that Monday and today (Tuesday) I’ve found what really happened.  Cherry’s (lived in first house) didn’t have a shelter and used to go with a young man and his wife next door.  The 4 Cherry’s were killed and so were the man and his wife.  The wife had a sister about 19 or 20 years of age.  She has had both legs amputated.  The man in the 3^rd house was a Mr Bentley.

The men who ripped the shelter up were about to get their hands under the bottom of the shelter as the earth had all been blown away.  I got a spanner and Ron undid some of the nuts to get the shelter apart easier.  When some of the side bits had been torn away we could see a young girl (the one who had her legs off we found it was, after) was sitting buried to the waist.  As they took the top off the shelter she looked round in a rather frightened manner – as though she were dazed, which no doubt she was.  At the further end of the shelter there was the body of a woman buried almost to the shoulders, with only the tops of her shoulder and the back of her head showing.  She had dark brown curls down to the back of her neck.  I can imagine who that would be.  They managed to get another woman out.  Someone had already broken down the fence leading to the sports field with a sledgehammer I found and with pieces of this they made splints for her legs.  Her face was so dirty that I couldn’t recognise her.  Her moans were heartrending, and she kept saying “oh my legs, my legs”  Someone was saying to her “They are alright they are numbed” and was stroking her face in an attempt to calm her.  After this I was dashing about to get water and covering for them.  Curtains were ripped down and someone went upstairs for the bedclothes (even though the rest of the house was in a bad way, the stairs were alright) anything we could find was used to cover the dead and make the injured more comfortable.  Ern and I came away after this.  There must have been at least 50 helpers by this time and the ARP etc had arrived, and we felt we had done all we could.  There was the usual crowd of persons come to see the damage, and dad had come to tell us to come back so we all came together.  Someone had burnt open the gates of the playing field at both sides as we came back that way.  All the windows at the top of Southern Road were smoked like those down the bottom or our road.  Mr Abrahams said he picked up (as he thought) a bundle of rages, but he dropped it quicker than he picked it up when he realised it was a bundle of human flesh and clothes.  The ambulances arrived about 5 past 3 and we directed them round into the field.  Another bomb which dropped in Glasgow Road near another shelter killed Mr Williams,  buried and suffocated Teddy and gave Bert a broken leg and cuts.  The elder brother who is a warden has the job of taking 2 more children down to his mother, who is evacuated with some kiddies, and breaking the news to her.  Another bomb dropped in Richmond Street and destroyed Skinners and damaged Ambrose’s and the old church school.  There is also a time bomb there.  St Marys Road has a huge hole in the road near Queens Road, and Plaistow Park Road near Russell school got another.  The High Street near Larkins is in a bad state and near Uncle Bobs in Clegg Street got another.  May Road had one, and some say Queens Road also but I don’t know about that.  The rest of the afternoon and evening there was Bert , Denis, Ern, Vic Mr Parker and occasionally others, redirecting traffic that had come down Tweedmouth Road thinking they could get up Glasgow which of course they couldn’t as the ARP were blocking the road.

Plaistow Station was also hit again.  Arthur and Yvonne cleared off after the raid, so did Floods.  the Gas and Electricity went off. The electricity came on again later, but the gas, which we had only had on a few hours, didn’t.  Majors had left their scullery light on so Dad, Ern and I broke in and made sure they were all off.  Then with Councillor Walker we went through the other houses.  We had already broken into Reddin’s once because there was a dangerous glass on the bedroom windowsill that would have been coming down soon. 

We had another ARW at 7.17 till 7.40 and there were some guns fired at the start but it was quiet after.  The all-night raid commenced at 8.13 and we were all asleep when the AC went about 5.40am.  The Jerries’ were about all the time and dropped some bombs uncomfortably close but the barrage was fairly effective.  At 10 we heard a thud that shook the house.  We came to the conclusion it was a time bomb, and when I asked Newman about it on Monday he said they think it is in St Mary Road, but they don’t seem to have found it.

Monday 16^th September 1940

First ARW 10.8 to 10.42 all quiet

Another 11.2 to 11.46 all quiet

All quiet 12.19 to 12.58

In the next one 2.13pm to 6pm, Mrs McGarry came in with us and the 2 girl Peattie’s were in till about 4.15.  The planes came over in waves.  The guns were going and I think I heard bombs in the distance.  Another ARW from 8.12 pm till 2.41 am.  Guns, planes and bombs all heard at times the barrage was very heavy.

Tuesday 17^th September 1940

I was asleep through the first ARW from 3.50am to 4.20am in fact mum and dad were the only ones to hear it.  They said the gunfire was heavy.  I got up with the second raid at 8 and it lasted till 8.46.  we heard nothing.

In the 3^rd at 9.13 we heard a few guns but it soon quieted and the AC went at 10.5.

We had another raid from 2.57 pm to 4.28pm.  Planes were about almost all the time and we saw 6 go from the East to the West and at the same time 9 went from the North to the South.  The 5^th raid was from 6.34pm to 7.2 pm.  In this dad and Ern came home.  It was quiet all through, in fact Bert came in with us, Ern and I talking about a new mouth organ Ern got.  Albert McGarry knocked about 7.45 and suggested that we knock down some of the fence between Reddin and us so that we could get through if necessary.  So we did so.  We can now get direct from Egmeads to Floods back gardens.

Bert stayed with us until the next warning at 8.8pm. the guns made a terrific barrage nearly all the time.  Many bombs were dropped all around.  2 fires were started – one at the docks.  The AC went at 6am.

Ern’s ceiling came in this morning & mum and I had an awful time getting it right.  Ern will have to sleep with me.  Walter came in the afternoon.  He wanted someone to help him get his lino up.  I would have if it had not meant leaving mum alone, besides we were busy upstairs in Ern’s room.  Walter was going to a shop in Auntie Aggies Road so he is going to see how she is.

Wednesday 18^th September 1940

We all went to bed except Ern.  He dozed off downstairs and said he woke up and heard an AC at 7.30

There was another warning at 8.18 and I got up just after when the guns were getting rather loud.  The AC went at 8.41am.  there was another raid from 9.40 to 10.24.  There were planes about all the time.  Bert came home just after this.  The docks are closed because they are alight and are crowded with time bombs.  He’s virtually unemployed now because he only has to go in for a couple of hours a day to book in the men.  We had another warning from 11.36 to 11.45.  It was all quiet and this is now the shortest raid – 9 minutes.  The longest was last night 9 hours 52 minutes or 592 minutes.  The 5^th raid began while dad was in, at 12.48.  At the beginning there were many planes about and we could see them making smoke lines in the sky. They came very close to us once or twice and the sky was covered with them at times.  Dad went to work about 1.45, the AC went at 2.30pm.

This was also the 100^th warning we have had.  Bert was going to Buyers so I went with him.  On the way we met Walter.  On the way back the ARS went, time 4.12.  Walter was still there when we got home.  Auntie Aggie is fine, he said.  He left while the raid was on AC at 4.29.  During the raid we heard a few planes.  That was all.  After the raid about 50 planes came from the N.W. to the S.E.  Some of them let smoke out of their exhausts.

We could still hear planes at 5.15pm when the 7^th alarm sounded.  AC at 5.58.  All quiet after ARW.  Next raid at 7.52pm till  5.27am.  Barrage was fairly intense and the Jerries came over in waves.  Many time Bombs dropped.

Thursday 19^th September 1940

ARW 8.54 till 9.6am, all quiet.  I heard a plane about at about 10.15.  Mum went shopping then at 10.30, the plane which had been circling around dropped a couple of bombs, we had no ARW though.  When the bombs dropped I didn’t know what to do because of mum being up the High Street.  She came back though.  The bombs dropped near the railway the other side of Pelly Road Bridge as far as I can make out.  In the afternoon at 3 we heard planes again and then we 

Heard gunfire. The plane dropped bombs in the city.  Mrs McGarry came in & we couldn’t get rid of her till nearly 5pm.  

Went to library & got “William – The Showman” R Compton “The Night-Watchman & Other Longshoremen” W W Jacobs.

Night Raid lasted from 8.2 pm till 3.44am. during the raid the noise hardly ceased and some bombs dropped near us.

Book 17

Friday 20^th September 1940

First Raid 11.7am to 11.59am.  there were planes about.  Fred came round in the evening.  He has had incendiaries dropped in his road.  When he left I was talking to Bert.  When the ARW went he came in with us.  It was 7.51pm.  The AC went at 12.18 am during the raid planes came over every 5 minutes.  Many times bombs dropped.  Dad said a land mine dropped near St Stephens Church Green last night.  We all went to bed when the AC sounded except Ern who had been in Powders.

Saturday 21^st September 1940

Raid again at 1.21 after an hours sleep.  It was the same as the last raid at first then I went to sleep, although I tried to keep awake.  We missed the AC.

I went to library & got “I found Africa” Van Nes Allen & “African Man Hunts” Lt Col H.F. Trew.  ARW again at 11.10am till 11.24am all quiet.  Just after that an R.A.F. chap called at a house in Tweedmouth Rd but could get no answer.  Mum in company with some others had to black her nose, it seems he met a girl who lives in the 3^rd house in a train & wrote to her & then as he had 48 hrs he came from Plymouth where he lives to see her.  He stood about for some time and then Mum asked him in to wait until either the girl or one of the people who live in the first house (the Burrows) because they all know the girl.  About 12.45 Eddie Burrows came along so we asked him to see the RAF fellow.  Eddie didn’t know the girl but his sister & mother do so the airman said he would wait for one of them.  About 2 Mrs Burrows came along with her daughter & the airman spoke to them, I don’t know what actually happened but they said something about this girl – Miss Way – the airman said her name was – being evacuated , so the airman said he’d best return home to Plymouth, he said it cost him £2 all for nothing.  Bert & I escorted him to Plaistow stn & saw he got the right train.  Incidentally he said he was going to be a fighter pilot & would soon be going in training.  Just as we got back who should come along but this girl with her fiancé, she had been leading them both on, & Mrs Burrows had been aiding her. When her boy heard about the RAF man he got mad & threw her over which I think serves her right – the cat.  

Bert & I went to the music shop.  We bought “The Isle of May“ “Sons of the Old Contemptibles” & “Famous Songs” a book of tunes, & we ordered “Lords of the Air”.  Next air raid warning at 6.6pm till 7.5pm, just after Ern had got home.  We heard planes about but it was quiet otherwise.  Today’s 4^th raid began at 8.12pm and lasted till 4.38am.  Bert was with us.  The barrage wasn’t so heavy as on previous nights but we could hear Jerry about & he dropped H.E’s and T.B’s near us.

Mr Williams & Teddy were buried today. 

Sunday 22^nd September 1940

Bed 4.45.  Walter called about 11.  I got up just after, Ern wouldn’t get up till 2 though.  First ARW came from 2.33pm till 4.10pm.  During this Dad & I got washed & Ern commenced to wash.  During the raid we heard one or two explosions & planes were about.  Next ARW 4.45pm till 6.9pm.  For the first 15 mins it was as bad as a night raid. The wispy clouds were very low and the planes couldn’t be seen but as they passed the cloud breaks the engine would get very loud & then soften as they went back above the cloud, and the barrage – all the local guns opened fire and they would be a terrific bang followed by a whizz & a scream as the shells shot over us.  For 15 minutes the place shook with the guns & then it went suddenly quiet & after we only heard a few planes.  The night raid began early – 7.6pm.  Bert was with us & Ern only came in once – for some grub & then he went over Powders again. It was quiet till almost 8, in fact we stood talking to Newman.  But when it did start it was terrific in fact we got hardly a break for 2 hours.  Once during that & once after bombs dropped extremely near & we had to dive down on the floor.  Guns still fired spasmodically till about 2.  We got the AC at 2.35am.  Just after Walker came along to say the water was off.

Monday 23^rd September 1940

Woke up after an hour of sleep by the sirens.  It was 3.32am. at the beginning of the raid it was very noisy & when bombs dropped very close the electric light went out.  We thought it had failed but it was the bulb that had gone we found after.  After 4 it was fairly quiet.  Ern came in sometime after 4 & I went to sleep till the A.C. at 5.59am.  The water was on then.

For a change The Leader^IV was delivered with the Express & I was able to get my Everybody’s at 9 when I went for it the first time.  ARW from 9.39 am till 10.45am. Quiet except for patrolling fighters.

The Cherry’s are being buried today.  They had 2 hearses & 2 coffins in each.  Mrs Cherry’s mother in Dundee Rd had them buried. Walter came just after the funeral left.  He said that he was machine gunned by a Heinkel at Dagenham yesterday.  He was at the gate & there were 2 men going by on bikes.  No one was hurt though.  The bullets just missed his car.

I went to the library & got “William The Detective by Richmal Crompton.  At 1.28 we had another ARW but the Jerries had gone over about 1.20 & the guns had fired at him.  After the warning I heard one plane over, otherwise it was quiet.  AC at 1.44pm.  Today’s 4^th raid was from 5.30 to 6.2pm during it I heard several patrols go over & I saw 2 lots, nearly a dozen in each group.

The all-night raid commenced early, in fact it was the longest we have endured.  The ARW went at 7.44pm & the AC went at 5.59am.  The barrage was heavy & bombs were dropped very close to us.  I said they were Molotov Breadbasket & they were.  Vic got the bottom of one.  New City Road School was burned in the raid, and 2 oil bombs were dropped near Freddie’s Road.  Once when I looked the front & then the back we were ringed by small fires.  Cave Road also got some firebombs. Ern was in Powders & Bert didn’t come in.  Ern came over some time after one but I was asleep.  Altogether I had 3 sleeps 1 till 3 3 till 5 & 5 till 7.

During the afternoon I went to the electricity place opposite Trinity Church to change a couple of bulbs.  Coming back I stopped to see Olly, he’s had several bombs near him.  By the bus stop outside the cemetery I met Mr Johnston one of my teachers, but I didn’t have time to call to him as his bus came along.

Tuesday 24^th September 1940

When I woke at 7 I had a wash & a look round. I found some shrapnel & during the day I found a good deal more, in fact I found more than I usually do, which is saying something, but then today I went on a lot of errands.  1^st ARW 8.35am to 9.23am.  We heard planes before the ARW but it was quiet after.  Bert didn’t go to work today as he is chucking his job in, so I went about with him.  Another couple of his relations have been bombed out again.  They certainly are chasing his people, Cherry’s were related to them even.  I went to the off licence & Mrs Dowsett said Doris Cherry was the last person she served that Sunday morning.  She also heard Len the soldier had every bone in his body broken.  Went to library & got “Cab Sir?” by Herbert Hodge & “Down Chinese Trails” by Galloper Light.  2^nd ARW at 11.50 till 12.21.  Dad came home during this raid.  We saw one of our patrols – 36 planes go over.  It was quiet after the warning except for a couple of shots at beginning but planes were about before the ARW in fact the guns fired at them before the ARW.

Night raid started at 8.14pm but the Bosch came over before that & the AA batteries were in return as well.  Bert didn’t stop with us & Ern went over to Powders.  There has been some kind of noise ever since and just after the news – say 9.20 a bomb came very close to us, it made the house rock.  It is now 9.35pm.  3 times during the raid we had to get down when we heard bombs fall.  I said I thought one lot fell in Green St, actually they fell in the Barking Rd, just round the corner from Green St. almost opposite The Odeon.  Links, Savages and some other shops copped the bombs.  Dads shop is only about 50 yds further on from those shops.  The barrage was very heavy at times, they evidently brought the mobile gun near us because we were suddenly startled out of our wits by a tremendous explosion that seemed just outside the house, I thought it was goodbye to our windows, but they are miraculously intact.  I went to sleep eventually.  When I woke up at 5.31 when the siren went Ern was in.  We went to bed just after. 

Wednesday 25^th September 1940

Mum woke me about 10.10 to get the key of Ern’s shed as Bert had knocked to borrow my pump.  The ARW went at 10.17 & that made me get up.  Mum had not heard the siren & was surprised when I told her of the raid.  Everyone takes the daylight raids much more casually now instead of leaving their carts & horses the tradesmen continue their rounds & hardly anyone goes down the shelters.  We heard planes once or twice & once the guns opened fire for a couple of rounds.  In the daytime the only explosions, almost, are the time bombs exploding & there are a good deal of these, and quite often we will be startled by A.A.’s going off.  The AC went at 12.9, just after dad got in.

After dinner I got the laundry.  It was taken up over a week ago & I think I must have made 2 dozen trips up after it & it only came in today, and then coming home the brakes on my bike were wrong & I went clean over the dustbin which was on the kerb.  The bikes brakes are in bits now waiting to be seen to.  Fred called round twice today.  I messed about with Bert in the evening & went in at 7.15.  the raid commenced at 8.21pm & we had peace for about ½ hour after.  After that ½ hour things warmed up but on the whole it was quieter than previous raids.  We heard bombs drop, but in the distance.  I went to sleep later on and woke up when the AC went at 5.32am.  I went to bed then after a cup of tea. 

Thursday 26^th September 1940

Up 11.30.  1^st air raid 11.37am.  till 11.58.  During the alert I heard planes but I think they were ours. After dinner I went with Bert to Freemason Rd Labour Exchange. Bert went there for Mr Egmead. While we were there we had a walk round.  All around there the damage is simply awful.  Almost every Rd is damaged in some way.  Most of the big buildings round the docks are down or else severely damaged.  In fact I was glad to get home again.  We had another alert from 4.9 to 4.38pm. But we heard nothing.  In the evening I went to Bert’s house.  I came in at 8.15 and just as I finished my supper the ARW went.  The time was 8.31pm.  Jerry came over almost at once.  After he had gone it was quiet for ¾ hours.  Then some more came over at a time every few minutes.  That mobile gun must be near again because it keeps shaking the doors and windows.  We found out today that when we heard the mobile gun terrifically loud it was outside North St School.  There’s a Jerry over us now.  The time is 10 past 10.

I went to the library & got “Claws of Africa” Mr Courtney & “A Century of Horror” Dennis Wheatley.  Up till midnight we could hear something all the time – either guns or planes or both, but usually in the distance.  After 12 it gradually quietened and the A.C. went at 3.58.  we all went to bed. Ern came in after. 

Friday 27^th September 1940

We had an air raid an hour after the AC, the sirens went at 5.4am.  Most of the noise was at the beginning and after ½ an hour it was all quiet, the AC went at 5.58.  Ern & I didn’t go back to bed.  Mum & dad hadn’t got up.  They heard some bombs fall but Ern & I didn’t. I had just got to sleep on the Lilo when Dad came down at 8.  Just after Dad went to work we had a warning at 9.9, we could hear the Jerrys & the AA guns were in action.  After a while we heard some more planes but I think they were our fighters.  We could hear planes at intervals all through the day & they weren’t always ours.  At 11 a lone German came over & the AA guns opened fire.  Bert & I were out so we got home as quick as we could, we could see the shells burst but we didn’t see the plane.  Another ARW went at 11.44.  The AA guns opened fire at some planes.  Dad came home through it.  For the last 20 mins it was quiet.  AC at 12.31.  When the warning sounded Bert & I were on our way to the Greengate on an errand. After the AC we started again but we were turned back by another siren 6 minutes after the AC at 12.37.  The AC went at 12.57 and during the raid we heard nothing.  Our 3^rd attempt to get to the Greengate was successful.

We could still hear planes intermittently and at 3.9 we got another ARW.  Just after the warning we saw 9 planes go over.  Bert & I watched them go over from the E to W.  The AA’s started.  The puffs of smoke got nearer & nearer to the planes & at last one burst in the middle of them & down came Jerry with smoke pouring from him.  Did we cheer when we saw that.  Then a dozen fighters came from the N to intercept them over the city and then over 30 more came from the N.E.  Just after they went over we got the AC at 3.47 pm.  We certainly live in stirring times what with planes coming over all day sometimes with & sometimes without warnings.  Then we get AA’s going off at any time.  Life is just one big scare.  Fred came round about 5.  He left at 6.  Mum had gone shopping.  Bert came in to discuss carving planes from some wood we’ve got.  We got the wood ready for marking out, just as we finished this Mum & Dad came along so Bert & I went to his place & marked out the shapes.  Then I brought them back to our house to shape in the raid.  The alarm went at 8.18pm but just before that the AA’s were in action against the Jerrys.  It is now 9.10 & there has been hardly a halt in the noise.

Yesterday a fire bomb dropped on Samson St Hospital.  A land mine was falling near the Golegh & a HG shot it to bits in mid-air.  Another mine fell in Water Lane & did terrific damage.  Oh well I may as well get on shaping these planes.  

Raid was fairly noisy after that.  Went to sleep later.  Woke up at 8.

Saturday 28^th September 1940

The AC of the last raid went at 5.59am.  After breakfast I washed & went on an errand for mum.  When I got back there were 2 men chasing a cow down Tweedmouth, which was the last thing I expected to see.  One of the men was lagging behind & the other was trying to lead it off.  Eventually he turned the cow back & the other fellow grabbed it.  It was rather playful, & the men had a bit of a job to get it along.  I suppose it got out of the Dairy in Balaam St.

Air raid from 10.11am to 10.46am.  There was plenty of AA fire & a bomb was dropped.  It fell on a heap of coal in Plaistow Stn.  Bert & I went to Green St & the music shop, but the music shop was shut.  Just as we got back another warning sounded.  Time was 1.39pm.  the raid lasted till 3pm.  There were plenty of planes about & the AA batteries were very active.  After tea I went to the music shop but they hadn’t got any music I had ordered or which I wanted so I came back home empty handed.  Bert & I carried on carving the planes when I got back.  

Bert stayed with us during the night raid which began at 8.13pm.  We put some more work in on the planes.  Jerry kept coming over in waves & the guns were intermittent, following them.  As I write this, Mum, Dad, Ern & Bert are stretched out asleep.  It is 11.16 & 3 or 4 bombs just dropped terrifically near to us.  I think I’ll join the others on the floor.

I said I would join the others on the floor but I was wandering around the room for 10 minutes trying to find a space between the 4 sleeping beauties.  I did eventually find room & I soon went to sleep.  I woke up once or twice.  So far as I can remember it quietened after about 12.30 and the guns would be silent for long intervals.  About 5.45 I work up to find Mum making tea.  While we were drinking it the AC went.  Time was 5.55am.  All went to bed just after.

Sunday 29^th September 1940

The next thing I knew was Dad calling Ern to get up & see Bert & another young fellow who wanted to see him.  Ern got up after some time & went down to see Bert & the other chap who turned out to be Bill, the fellow who was going to buy Ern’s mouthorgan.  He bought it for 15/- from Ern.  I got up just after this at 12.30.  Dad said there had been a raid from 8.35 to 8.50am but it had been all quiet.  

Walter called in the afternoon.  He wanted to know where he could get some bread as they had run out.  After scrounging some of ours he left.  He had a soldier & a sailor he was giving a lift to, in the car.

Just as I started to wash the sirens sounded, it was 4.30 pm.  I continued my wash, however.  During the raid a good deal of planes went over but as the guns were silent I suppose they were ours.  AC at 5.2pm.

Ern had some N.C.V. enrolment forms so I filled one in and he is going to enrol me.  I went & knocked for Bert.  I was in with him till nearly 7.  Then we went to buy some sweets.  Then we went in his house again.

Sirens went at 8.3pm.  Bert came in with me.  During the first hour, only about 3 Jerries got through but afterwards they came through every 10 minutes.  The guns were pretty active & they brought the mobile gun near us once.  It is now 11.15.

I went to sleep about 12 & although I woke up once or twice or & once I had something to eat, I can’t remember anything about the raid, apparently it was pretty bad.  The guns were firing 30 minutes before the A.C.

Monday 30^th September 1940

Woke up at 8. While we were having breakfast a time bomb went off very near to us.  I think it is about the nearest to us that they have been, out of the many that daily go off.  However we couldn’t see in which direction it was.  Mum heard from Savill the other day, he said he would be coming to do Ern’s ceiling today, so mum & I finished preparing the room.  Then I went out & got my “Everybody’s”.  Just after I got back we had our first ARW of the day.  It lasted from 9.22 to 9.49.  During it, several of our planes went over.  The second warning was from 10.19 to 11 am and we heard some more of our fighters.  The clouds were too low for us to see them thought.

I wanted to go to the Post office so when Dad went back to work I went with him.  I put 5/- in the savings bank.  I got my wages today, they weren’t posted till last Friday.

I went up the High St after & met Fred so I went to his work with him, while I was there the siren went. I raced home & got there 5 minutes after the siren went.  It sounded at 1.20 & we got the AC at 2.11pm.  We heard a few planes during the raid.

During the afternoon Bert & I got on with our planes.  We had another ARW at 4.36.  During this Bert went in to his tea.  After a while I went in and found Mr Webster here.  His had his home bombed but luckily its mostly the building that suffered & most of his home is safe.  Also a couple of days before it happened he & his wife went to Didcot.  He had to come back because of his job though & he called to see Dad at his place.  He wanted us to keep some papers for him so Dad told him to call on us & that was why he came.  Mum found out that he had had nothing to eat so she made him some tea & suggested that he should stop the night with us as otherwise he would have to go to a school & he didn’t fancy that.  The AC went at 5.56pm.

Finally we persuaded Mr Webster to wait till Dad came in & then decide whether he would stop or not.  Mum said he could come here every night & also have his meals here but he said he felt he would be imposing.  His feeling was quite understandable.  Eventually he said that if we would accept a remuneration he would get his rations transferred to us and do as mum suggested.  So he waited till Dad came in to make arrangements.

Then Bert called & asked me to go with him to some club in Balaam St.  it was then 6.15 & we didn’t get back till 7.15 & by that time Dad had got home & made all arrangements so I don’t know what transpired, but Mr Webster stayed & had supper & then stayed with us.  At present he is asleep in a chair.  He is frightfully worried by everything & he doesn’t know whether or not to chuck in his job.  The time is now 5 past 11.

The ARW went at 7.51pm.  Bert didn’t come in as he said he felt he would be in the way with someone else here.  Ern went over to Powders.

The guns soon started & there has been hardly a lapse since.  I am going to try to read a bit now & then go to sleep.  Savill didn’t come to do the ceiling.

Tuesday 1st October 1940

AC at 5.49.  About 10 minutes after, siren had gone in distance, Mum picked it up and then some more did the same. At first we thought it was another ARW.

Woke up about 8.  Savill came this morning.  He took down all the rest of the ceiling & went out to buy the asbestos board for the new ceiling.  While he was out the guns fired on Germans twice.  Once at 10.35 & again at 10.55.  Neither time did we get an ARW.  Savill got back at 12.15, he made the excuse he couldn’t get any boards, but he was probably down a shelter somewhere.  Bert went up the city this morning & got a job.  When he came back we did a bit more of the planes.  Then the first siren went at 1.27pm it lasted till 1.54 & during it we heard a few planes & some gunfire.  The second raid went at 2.4pm.  At 2.9pm we heard in the distance some more sirens gong off.  But it was a continuation of the ARW & not an AC as we first thought.  AC at 3.21.  We heard a good few planes & the guns were active.  Just after AC a couple of dozen fighters went over.  3^rd warning at 4.16 pm.  During this Mr Webster came in.  He had his dinner & tea in one as he couldn’t get back before.  AC at 4.54pm.  We heard a good number of planes and the guns opened fire once or twice.

Fred came about 6. I rode home with him.  When I left him I went to the music shop for the 2^nd time today.  The first time I went the woman in the shop next door said they were out.  The 2^nd time I saw her but they still didn’t have in my music.  She asked me to come again Saturday.  She also said they will probably shut up as they are doing hardly any trade.  I was able to start painting my plane when I got back & during the 4^th raid I finished it.  It looks alright too.

Bert came in for the Night raid.  But it only lasted from 8.8pm till 11.18pm, why the Hell they sounded the AC I don’t know because at 11.40 the siren started moaning again.  Lately they seem to be daft with those sirens.  This time our siren was 3 minutes slow in picking up the warning & by that time Jerry had arrived.  He dropped some bombs near us at 1 & just after I went to sleep.

Wednesday 2^nd October 1940

Woke up at 8.  AC went at 5.30am.  Air Raid W at 9.3am but the plane had been over 10 minutes before.  Maybe they were ours thought, still, with the daft arrangements they seem to have the plane may had been Nazis. During the alarm we heard plenty of planes about.  AC at 9.31am.

Until the next ARW at 9.50 am we could still hear planes.  During alarm a few guns were fired.  AC at 10.54.  We had another ARW at 12.8 till 12.31 between raids we heard a lot of planes & a fight was on during the warning.  We could hear the planes diving & climbing but they were too far for us to hear the firing.  We heard another fight before the next ARW at 1.24pm.  There were many planes about during the warning.  AC went at 1.52pm.  During the 5^th raid, from 3.4 pm till 3.26pm the guns fired on some planes.  We had a short raid of 9 minutes, it went at 4.34.  We heard some planes.  We got 2 AC’s at the end of the raid. One at 4.43pm & the 2^nd at 4.45.  another example of official blundering.  

Bert came in about 7.30pm.  He started at his new job in the City today.  He says he likes it.  The ARW went at 7.49pm.  Jerry arrived soon after warning, the guns were very active at the beginning of the raid.  I worked at the model aeroplanes for a bit.  I’ve nearly finished one now.  It only wants a propeller.  I have painted it already.  During supper the AC went.  It had got quiet about 8.30 & after 9 we didn’t hear a thing.  It was 9.16 when the siren gave the AC. After supper I got the games out & Bert and I played draughts & Mum & Dad, Ern & Mr Webster played dominoes. 

Today’s 8^th warning went at 10.13pm but we heard noisy engines before then.  The raid was fairly noisy until 1 when we settled to sleep.  I don’t remember a thing after that.  Mum & Dad said 2 bombs were dropped very close to us.  Saville finished Ern’s room today. 

Book 18

Thursday 3^rd October 1940

Woke up at 8.  From 9 o/clock onwards we could hear planes about us.  At 10.20 during the service on the wireless I heard an AC come over the ether.  There’s proof the BBC haven’t all returned to London.  At 10.46 we had today’s first ARW during the alert it was comparatively quiet, which is just how I like it.  AC at 11.10.  Next alarm 1.11pm just after Dad got in.  Ern & Mr Webster came in during the alarm.  We could hear planes flying about & the guns fired on them.  AC at 1.41pm. 

At 2.22pm we got another raid.  Compared against the other daylight raids we’ve had the last few days this one was very noisy.  One plane for instance was circling around, turned back in all directions by our guns, for nearly ½ an hour.  Most of the time it seemed to be in our vicinity.  Eventually it got away. I hope it was brought down as a punishment for the nasty moments it gave us when it came very low.  Mr Webster left to go down to his wife at Didcot when the raid slackened a little.  He will be staying till Sunday.  The AC sounded at 5.15pm.  We were left in peace till 7.58 when the siren commenced its ululation (Nice word that & it’s easy to see how the siren got the name of Lulu) the siren has several names, Moaning Minnie, Wailing Winnie etc.  Bert & I came to the conclusion that it would be better if instead of sirens they played records, & amplified them, of the introduction & end of the BBC show “In Town Tonight”.^V

At 8.3pm all the sirens sounded again but it was a second ARW.  I’d like to know what the Authorities think they are doing of.  The guns opened fire on a Nazi soon after the alarm at 8.10.  One of the raiders left a visiting card not far away.  After that it was more peaceful and it slackened altogether at approx. 8.45.  The AC sounded at 9.30 as I am writing this.  Next ARW at 10.9pm.  the guns were active for some time.  About 11.30, Mum Dad & I went to sleep.  The AC went at 2.10am but none of us heard it.

Friday 4^th October 1940

Ern’s 25^th Birthday

I woke up about 6 & found Ern was in & asleep.  I went to sleep again & got up at 8.  During the morning I got on with the planes.  Mum took Mrs Clay into see Yvonne’s house.  About 20 minutes after they came out Yvonne herself arrived.  She came in a lorry with her brother Ray.  They commenced to move her furniture out right away.  There were 3 removal men with them.  They had finished & gone before 12.  

Yvonne told Mum to take the coal she had left.  After they had gone I had a look round & found some paint, bottles, paintbrushes etc & took them for myself.  Dad came in to dinner then.  During dinner, 12.41 to be precise the siren gave the alarm.  The planes were over just after the ARW & the guns put up a steady barrage at 12.55 they dropped 2 bombs.  I heard them falling first & yelled “Down”.  We all got together under the lintel of the door leading to the passage.  After they fell Dad & I went into the garden & we saw the smoke & rubble rising in the air like a giant toadstool.  I said it was over near Upton Park Station.  Vic told us after, one fell in Neville Road near the Carlton & one in Boleyn Rd.  Mrs McGarry came in after that because she was nervous.  The guns slackened off for a while & Dad went back to work.  The guns continued till 1.30 then it became quieter.  Fred called then, on his way back to work.  He promised to get me some petrol for my lighter.  After 1.30 the guns only fired sporadically but at 4.30 they started again.  They continued till 5.15pm & we finally got the AC at 5.33. we only had a short respite however and at 5.55pm we got another ARW.  The Jerries were over almost immediately & most of the raid the guns put up a heavy barrage.  AC at 6.30.

During the afternoon raid I got in the coal and of all the rotten jobs I’ve had, that was the worst.  Still it was worth it because it will be hard to get coal soon.  Dad & Ern came in about 6.45.  Ern went out again though.  We had a short raid from 6.56 till 7.10pm in which a Jerry came over, circled round a few times & then vanished so I wouldn’t be surprised to hear he was shot down.  At 7.45 the guns opened fired on some Jerries that came over.  Bert came in. Then from 8.10 till sometime before 8.40 we were without electricity.  I don’t know when it actually came on again but it was 8.40 when we switched on.  When it went out it was like gas fading – slowly growing dimmer & dimmer till at last it extinguished.  The Jerries keep coming over & they seem low, still the weathers bad – it has been all day, raining nearly all the time & even when it was not raining it was a depressing day.  At times there has been a tremendous blaze of light not far away to the north, maybe it is some light that shines on the clouds & shows up planes in a wide area, thus being better than a searchlight.  It was seen the other night & Bert said one of the daily papers mentioned it.  It is now 9.45 with no sign of the raid diminishing & the sirens have still not given an alarm.  It gradually quietens after this and at 1.30 an AC sounded. 

Saturday 5^th October 1940

From 2.14 am to 3.35am we had a raid.  The guns fired on a few planes but it was fairly quiet compared to the previous raid.  We had a raid from 11.23am to 11.54am and the guns fired on 2 or 3 planes.  Mum went out during the raid but it was all right as the guns were not firing in our direction.  Next raid was 2.13pm till 2.43pm.  Heard a few planes & the guns fired a few times. After this raid I went to the music shop.  They were selling off their music 1/- copies 6d & 6d copies 4d because they are packing up tomorrow.  They have stuck it very well because Jerry has been dropping bombs closer & closer to them.  They are coming back when things are quieter.  

I bought:

Tiggerty Boo 6d cost me 4d

Sweet Little Sweetheart 6d   “ “     4d

When I Dream of Home 1/-  “ “…..6d

This Years Kisses 1/- “     6d

Nice Work If You Can Get It 1/-  “ “…..6d

I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm 1/-  “ “…..6d

Waltzing Matilda 1/-  “ “…..6d

Pull Down the Stars 1/-  “ “…..6d

Creaking Old Mill 6d   “ “     4d

Say It 1/-  “ “…..6d

Let the People Sing 1/-  “ “…..6d

The Navy’s Here 1/-  “ “…..6d

Pessimistic Character 1/-  “ “…..6d

I Hear Bluebirds 1/-  “ “…..6d

12/6       6/6

And Bert will help me with most of them as per our arrangement.

When I got home I saw Bert & we went round to Jagger’s & bought a Propeller for our Messerschmitt’s. 

At 4.4pm as we were coming home the siren commenced its ululation.  We got home in a couple of minutes & in that time was packed all the actions of the raid – a few rounds of AA fire.  Bert & I spent the remainder of the raid digging up the potatoes in Yvonne’s garden for Mrs Clay. We had some fun doing it too.  

Oh dam it.  I’ve put it all wrong.  I went to the music shop & Jagger’s before the 2.13 raid & it was then we dug up the spuds, during the 4.4 raid there were only 1 or 2 guns fired & we saw 37 of our fighters go over us.

The night raid commenced at 7.32pm & lasted till 6.9am.  Just after the ARW Jerry arrived & the guns got busy.  But after 10 it was quieter.  I went to sleep at 12.  Dad told me that one of our balloons got loose during the raid.

Sunday 6^th October 1940

Up at 1.16pm with the siren. U.Bob & A.Liz were here.

We had had 2 sirens previous one from about 9 and it lasted, so far as I can make out, about 10 minutes.  The AA guns fired on a few planes apparently.  There was another from 11.55 till 12.10 but that was all quiet.  The 1.16 one ended at 5.41pm.  the guns put up a good barrage at the planes which came over every few minutes at the beginning of the raid.  It quietened from 2.30 till 4.30 then the fun began again but it wasn’t so bad as before.  It finally quietened about 5.15. Mr & Mrs Turner came back from Cardiff the other day & they have now got a place (Temporary?) at Ilford.  They are moving their furniture tomorrow.  The Surveyor said that their house is dangerous.  They left here about 3, just before we had dinner.  After dinner I finished the Messerschmitt & it doesn’t look too bad with the prop on.  The AC went while I was having my wash & Mr Webster came back just after. After tea we all just sat abut reading waiting for the siren.  Bert came in about 8.  At 8.15 Fred & Bill called.  Fred wanted to know if I had a stamp he wanted.  While they were here the siren went so they dashed off.  It was 8.20. the raid was short & sharp.  It was noisy but the AC went at 8.39pm. after a while the guns began again but it wasn’t much & it was all quiet by 11.30.  At 12 we had some tea and Bert went & we all went to bed.

Monday 7^th October 1940

Woke up 5.40 by Lulu.  Dad & I got up.  Mr Webster was still asleep downstairs.  I made a bed under the table.  There was some gunfire now & again & the AC went at 6.39am.  Dad went back to bed & I slept under the table.  I woke up at 8.50.  I was just going to go & get my “Everybody’s” when my nose started bleeding.  When that finished we heard a siren at 9.46 till 10.16.  It was perfectly quiet during that.  Just as I was going again Jerry has another pop & at 10.22 the sirens start.  That one lasted till 11.13.  A good few batches came over & the guns were kept busy.  At 10.40 2 bombs were dropped.  After this one I did go out for my book & he also had my “Gibbons “ but it was this month’s, so I had missed the September issue but he will try to get it for me.  I got my letter from Thurley’s when I got home but my cards were in it.  Last September the same thing happened in the same circumstances.  I think September is my unlucky month.  After dinner I went to the labour exchange.  As I got there the warning sounded & we had to take cover.  I went to Odys St stopped there but actually it wasn’t safe because there was a time bomb under a shop over the road and another round the corner.  Those bombs that fell today were one opposite Trinity Church & the other in the park off the pub where the road branches.  It blew a tree out of the ground.  The ARW went at 1.15 & it lasted till 2.13.  We heard a few planes & guns.  When I got home uncle Albert was here.  He has sent A Lisa & the kids away again as they had a bomb near them also a lot of incendiaries.  Knocked a lot of furniture about a bit & all the soot came out of his chimney.  Uncle Will has been bombed out.  Aunt Maud & Arthur were away & Stan & his pal were the only ones in the shelter.  The bomb dropped outside the shelter & blew half the shelter outside the Odeon. By a miracle Stan’s friend escaped & Stan was only cut about the face a little bit.  Next door people were killed.  The house is ruined.  

While Albert was here there was a good deal of gunfire & we had a warning sometime after 3.53 to 4.34.  It was quiet during the Raid.

Albert left during the raid.  He told us that the allied airman, who was saved from being killed by the crowd, by a busman, was a Pole & he landed at the “Merry Fiddlers”.  Another ARW from 4.48pm to 5.14pm.  We heard a couple of planes & the guns fired on them, but there was more action before the warning.  Fred called just after.  Walter came later.  He is going to call tomorrow & see if Mum wants to go away.

Bert came in about 6.45. Night raid commenced at 7.31pm.  It was very noisy for some time, in fact the barrage was one of the best we’ve had.  It was continuous at first but after 10 it was more spasmodic. 

Tuesday 8^th October 1940

At 2am I was awakened from a doze by 2 or 3 terrific bangs – bombs.  We could hear the glass going – then all was still.  I raced to the back door & Ern to the front.  I saw a tremendous black cloud of dust & debris over our head.  They were alright along the back, so I went out the front with Ern.  We couldn’t find where the bombs had fallen although I said I thought it was in Glasgow Rd.  Indoors they said 2 bombs dropped but I said I heard 3.  After seeing our glass was intact & no ceilings down we went to sleep again.  About 6.30 Dad & I went for a walk round. 1 bomb fell in Glasgow and bashed Curwen’s a bit.  It fell very near the previous bomb.  It ruined about 6 to 12 houses.  2 bombs fell close to each other in Dundee next to Huxtables.  Huxtables rear wall is down & so are 3 houses while others are inhabitable. The road was covered with bricks, wood, bits of furniture, glass etc & rounded off with a layer of soot & dust.

In our road there are dozens of ceilings down.  Mrs Parker has 3, Mrs McGarry 2 & Ewes & many others have one down.  As to glass I think we were extremely fortunate the paper we put on them saved them & all we have is 2 windows slightly cracked so Ern & I put more paper over the cracks to hold it.  A bit of the landing ceiling fell in Majors & the box of the of the lock has been torn away by the blast.  Everyone seems to have windows out except us.  In Tweedmouth Rd there is hardly a ceiling left according to the piles of plaster in the road.  We had another ARW at 8.41.  Just after the ARW there was a fight.  The guns were active, 1 plane was brought down I think.  It was quiet for a while & then some planes came over at a great height & made a pattern in the sky like this ——–

• 

We heard a few more planes after & then the AC went at 10.11am. Next ARW at 10.37am till 11.20am.  Just after the ARW 2 of the very loudest guns I’ve heard were fired.  There were a lot of Jerries fired on.  Later we only heard the RAF patrol.  During the next sounding of the siren at 11.43am the guns fired but after the siren finished it was quiet until the AC at 11.59am.  In the next warning between 12.35pm & 12.39pm we only heard a few guns & a couple of planes.  It was the same during the next raid between 2.45pm & 3.4pm.

Bert came in about 7.15 & we had the siren at 7.22pm.  During the first couple of hours or so it was terrifically noisy.  In fact there were only a few breaks in the whole of the raid.  The AC went at 6.39am.  Walter called in the afternoon & I took my books back to the library.

I heard they machine-gunned Upton Park Stn this morning.

Wednesday 9^th October 1940

First air raid at 11.21 am soon after the warning we heard some terrific explosions.  I wasn’t sure what they were but I found later they were bombs & they hit Plashet Grove the Memorial Hospital & some other places.  They dropped a Time Bomb in St Marys Rd just past the Stanley, so we had better look shifty and get under cover when that goes off.  After the noise in the raid we only heard a few planes & we saw some more skywriters towards the North.  Then after that we only heard a very few guns AC at 1.7 pm.  During today’s 2^nd raid we saw nearly 50 planes at different times. It lasted from 2.43 till 4.14. At 7.21 the night raid commenced.  Bert was with us.  Huns came over just after the warning & gave us little rest during the whole night, in fact just before 7am the guns were still firing.  AC at 7.5am.

Thursday 10^th October 1940

First raid at 8.57 till 9.15. I heard one or 2 guns fired. I heard that in Dundee Rd no-one was as much as scratched but a few people were hurt in Glasgow Rd.  2^nd raid 1.53 pm till 2.6pm. Mum and I are probably going away so Dad told Webster & during the morning he found himself another place.  In the afternoon he went to Didcot to his wife.  We had a 3^rd raid between 3.26pm & 3.57 pm & I heard some planes go over & the AA guns opened up on them.  In the evening I went to the library & got “Puzzles & Curious Problems” H.E. Dudeney & “Hunters book of Indoor Entertainments”.  When the Siren went at 7.42 Bert brought in his chess men.  He knows a bit about chess & with what I learned from Hunters Books of Indoor Entertainment”.  We played 3 games.  Bert won the first I won No 2 & the 3^rd was a stalemate.  Not bad for a beginner playing against a chap who was taught by good players – which Bert’s uncles are supposed to be.  

At 12 we laid down, Bert & I, after that the raid, which had been quite intense dropped a bit & then it quietened down and we had the AC at 4.58 am.  

Friday 11^th October 1940

During breakfast we had an ARW at 7.42am.  We heard planes & one of them dropped a bomb.  AC at 8.8am.  When dad had gone I found he had left his belt behind so I was just going to dash round to the shop on my bike with it when the siren went at 8.53.  We heard a few planes, and as soon as the AC went at 9.14 I went round the shop.  On my way back I had a look at my old school.  The bomb destroyed my first-year classroom, the Art Room & the Science Room & altogether the place is in a terrible mess.  I’d like to get to work with our club on the bastard that dropped the bomb.  We had another raid from 10.53am to 12.20pm in which I heard a lot of planes & some guns.  During the 10.53-12.20 raid we got our gas on after letting it run for ½ an hour.  We had another raid from 2.28pm to 2.44pm in which we heard a few planes about.  We had a 5^th raid from 4.7pm to 4.33pm.  At the beginning we heard some planes & AA fire.  The night raid commenced at 7.10 pm & Bert came in.  We played 2 games of chess. Bert won the 1^st & I won the 2^nd.  It was very noisy and some bombs were dropped near the us.  Actually they were round near Swete St & Stock St & a breadbasket was dropped near the station & Everett’s set alight.  The other fire bombs fell nearby.  The AC went at 2.30am but none of us heard it.  Between the 5^th & 6^th raids mum & Dad bathed.  I went to the library for the 1^st time in weeks and got “Hoyles Games, Modernised”

Saturday 12^th October 1940

Air raid from 9.20am till 10.45 heard planes & guns.  I started to make a chess set out of some bits of wood.  Peter Emanuel called about 11 & we had another ARW at 11.8am after the AC 11.40 we went on a couple of errands during the raid we heard planes & guns.  When we got back from doing the errands we went for a ride round the streets near where Peter lives & saw some of the damage.  Its colossal.

At 12.30 pm another siren went but we didn’t hear it but we heard the AC at 12.59pm & wondered what it was about till someone told us.  But apparently only a few planes came over.  Next warning at 1.18 pm till 2.16pm heard planes & guns.  After the AC mum went shopping & I had a bath & was it lovely.  I could have stopped there all day but I was unaware of what Goering intended to do so I had to have my bath quickly.  But I got finished & Mum got home before the next siren. In fact it went at 4.13pm.  we went into our garden during the raid.  We heard the planes very close & the AAs were busy for a while.  Next raid was the evening one.  It went at 7.17.  Bert came in & we played a game of chess which I won.  It was about the best we’ve had.  I had Bert in check in 4 moves but the game actually lasted more than 2 hours.  The raid was noisy spasmodically with varying periods of quiet in between.  Mum brought my bed down & she & Dad are sleeping on it. I think I’ll finish painting my homemade chess set ready for use tomorrow – or perhaps I should say today as it is now 12.20.  Walter called this evening.  He wants me to help him tomorrow & he will call for me at 9.

Sunday 13^th October 1940

I soon went to sleep & then, still half asleep, I heard Ern come in & say the AC went at 2.10am.  it was turned 2 apparently when he got in.  But I was too sleepy to realise what he said & I went to sleep again till 9am & then I had to dash to get ready for Walter.  He came just before I was ready. The garage he goes to is under one of the railway arches in Grangewood Road.  We started on his car & after a while a fellow came in his car & Walter went somewhere with him & came back with 10 gallons of petrol (Outside the rationing allowance).  When we left the garage at 4.30 Walters car was in bits on the floor.  The big ends all gone wrong & something has got to be done to the sump.  While we were there Walter repaired another car for a fellow & when he had finished using it for the day the owner brought it back & lent it to Walter for a couple of days till Wal’s is repaired. This owner doesn’t seem to know much about cars because he said “The car does 30 to the gallon & I’ve only done 45 miles & there’s 2 gallons in the tank,”  & when we finally got the rattletrap started we only got as far as the “Princess Alice” before we ran out of petrol.  But as it happened it was lucky we did.

While we were at the garage we had 2 raids. The 1^st began at 12.45pm. we heard a lot of planes & the guns fired in the distance.  One bomb dropped in the direction of Wanstead Flats.  A.C. at 2.45

About 3.40 we heard planes & the guns.  After looking a while we saw the condensation made by the planes & afterwards we saw the planes themselves.  There were 7 very high making the condensation & 2 very low & very big.  They dropped another bomb over towards the flats again & then the authorities decided to tell us there was a raid on, & they sounded the sirens at 3.50pm.  After the alert we only heard a few planes but I could see the condensation marks & I thought they were almost over home.  

When I was coming back to the car with the petrol I met Ern.  Mum had sent him to fetch me because they had had bombs near home before the 2^nd warning & Mum was worried frantic about me.  That was why it was lucky we ran out of petrol, otherwise we should have missed Ern.

Coming home Ern said the bombs dropped, getting nearer & nearer & he thought it was his bundle, but the last bomb dropped in the Stanley Alley, plumb in the middle of it.  Other bombs dropped in St Marys Rd next to Curwen’s.  On Russel Road school in Chesterton Rd & 2 other places.  If there had been another bomb it would have landed only a few yards from our house.  Thank Heavens there weren’t.  We came along the back turnings and we could see all the rubble in St Marys Rd.,  and as we came down Glasgow Rd we could see that the 4 corner houses in the alley were all ruined by the bomb which must have dropped almost on the lamp-post which is in the centre of the alley.  One person was killed in St Marys Rd.  I didn’t hear of any other causalities. 

When the night raid commenced at 7.6pm I was in Bert’s house so we soon nipped through the back gardens into our place.  We played 2 games of chess.  Bert won one & we drew the 2^nd.  The raid was terrifically noisy until about 1 when it began to slacken.  Several bombs dropped near us & we could hear shrapnel falling all round us – in the gardens, on roofs & outside in the street.  We saw a couple of flares as well.  

I went to sleep on my cushion “bed” about 1 & woke at 8.  The AC went at 6.5am.

Monday 14^th October 1940

A.R.W. at 12.4pm but guns fired before the siren.  At 11.32am. I heard very faintly in the distance an A.R.W.  It was over in Kent.  We heard planes & guns at intervals during the raid and we got the AC at 2.10pm but at 2.26 another alert was sounded which lasted till 2.54.  We heard planes & guns during the ARW & after the AC we could hear guns but I heard they were testing some big guns at Woolwich.  Next raid we had was the all night one.  It began at 7.3pm.

The raid was louder than last nights.  At 8.30 6 bombs fell near us.  When they came down all you could see of Bert was his behind sticking out from under the table.  The guns were still busy at 5am I’m told, & the AC went at 5.35.

Tuesday 15^th October 1940

All today has been nothing but one raid after another.  The 1^st at 8.20 till 9.31.  In this raid we had a few very noisy spells & some bombs fell near.  Next one at 10 till 10.30 and it was fearfully noisy nearly all the time with the planes & guns.  Just after this Uncle Albert came & he left just as the next warning began at 11.27.  The landladies arrived then to see mum about having Mrs Clay as a tenant for Yvonne’s old house.  It was all settled & Mrs Clay has the house.  We showed Miss Nickelson the various damages to our place & they will be seen to in a couple of weeks’ time.  AC at 11.54.  We didn’t hear a thing during the raid which is rather a change.  4^th raid at 12.42 till 1.12.  We heard planes & guns.  Mum went to the hairdressers then & while she was out I made a new blackout for the kitchen out of some cardboard packing cases & a few struts.  We had 2 raids while mum was out.  One from 2.29 till 3.18.  I only heard 1 or 2 planes & guns.  The other was from 4 till 4.43 & was rather more noisy with plenty of planes & a lot of guns.

When Bert came home he gave me the Box Office address of a firm of Accountants who want a boy so during the night raid I wrote a letter to them.  The siren went at 7.27 but before that we heard the guns firing overhead at a few planes.  Bert was with us.  The raid was one of the noisiest yet.  We heard a new type of gun which is more like an extremely loud machine gun than anything else.  I dare say nearly a dozen bombs dropped near us in a few minutes about 9.15. & 3 fires started.  One in Balaam St one towards the docks and one in the city.  It’s now 11.30 & I’m turning in now. 

Wednesday 16^th October 1940

Walters Birthday 31 today.

Woke up at 8.30.  Went & posted letter.  Found out the AC went at 5.5am.  But at 5.50 till 6.15 there was another ARW but it was all quiet.  During the morning I put 5/- in the savings bank.

Mum got some wood & I spent the morning & afternoon chopping it.  We had 2 ARW’s in the afternoon but really we should only have had one.  At 2.30 I heard a siren in the distance & 32 minutes later we had the local siren at 3.11 (last Monday I heard a siren in the distance 32 mins before we had a local warning).  We heard a plane before the ARW, & during the raid we heard a few planes the AC went at 3.23 but we could hear a Jerry then a couple of minutes later the guns fired at him & at 3.26 pm the siren went again.  This was all quiet after that Jerry eased off through.  AC at 3.43.  We had no more alarms till 7.3pm.  

Bert came in & we played 2 games of chess.  I won both.  Planes & guns were heard just after the siren and they have kept up all the time till now (11pm) at 9.45 a sudden thud shook the house & immediately after we heard the whistle of another bomb, but neither went off so the first time bomb must be very near us as we didn’t hear it fall.  Still it must be o.k. or the wardens would have raked us out by now.  I’m going to turn in now.

Thursday 17^th October 1940

AC at 6.8am. Up at 8.  That time bomb fell near the station with some other bombs. 1^st raid 8.20 till 8.47 & we heard a few planes during warning.  Next one at 9.23 till 10.3.  I heard many planes but I think it was our patrol.  3^rd one at 7.38pm till 1.54 and we heard a few planes.  After the AC Dad & I went for a walk round.  At 3.14 we got the 4^th ARW we heard a few planes & the AC went at 3.52.  Ern & I were looking for shrapnel on the roof & we found a hole on my bedroom roof. The other night we heard something fall & it must have been that.  While Ern was on the window ledge looking at the hole another warning went.  He got in quicker than he got out.  The time was 4.30 pm.  At 3.55 while the previous AC was sounding one siren gave a warning.  We couldn’t make out what it really was but we thought it was a mistake.  We heard some planes thought.  But when the warning sounded at 4.30pm we decided it was a mistake.  A few guns fired & just after that 4 bombs dropped.  After that it was quiet.  Bert came in when we got an ARW at 6.51 & we played 2 games of chess Bert winning the 1^st and me the 2^nd.  The raid was very noisy at first but after 12 it stopped although the guns still fired occasionally.  Went to library & got “Conflict” by Rosita Forbes. 

Friday 18^th October 1940

AC at 6.47.  The raid lasted 12 hrs all but 4 mins – longest yet.  I got up at 8.30am & spent the morning chopping wood.  We had no raids for nearly 9 hrs our 1^st warning of the day went at 3.26 but it lasted till 5.34.  We heard some planes at start of raid but after that we didn’t hear a thing.  Night raid at 7.10.

Bert & I played a game of chess & I won.  The raid was nothing compared to previous raids & we got the AC at 1.44am.  Mum & Dad went to bed but Ern, Bert & I stayed downstairs.

Saturday 19^th October 1940

Warning from 3.55am till 6.50am.  It was fairly noisy & some bombs were dropped in the distance.  In the afternoon Bert wanted to get a shirt at Dad’s shop.  As we were walking there we heard a warning but it didn’t come near & only 1 siren sounded so we went on.  It was 2.25 pm.  Bert couldn’t get suited at Woodmansee’s so we came out, as we did so the ARW went.  Time 2.40 pm. Just then the guns fired & a bomb dropped so we went back to Dad’s department.  Dad said we could get what we wanted at Finkel’s next to the Odeon.  So after a while when nothing else happened we went over there & Bert got what he wanted.  The AC went as we got home at 3.15pm.

Bert & I messed about till 7.13 when the siren went & then he came in.  We played 2 games of chess, both of which I won.  The raid was noisier than last night’s one & the planes were frequent.  2 big fires were started.  Went to sleep at 10.45.

Sunday 20^th October 1940

AC at 2.12am.  But another ARW at 2.30am till 5.52am but it was nothing compared to the previous raids.  Very few planes & very little gunfire being heard.  I spent the morning with Bert & Stan, distempering Bert’s Air Raid Shelter. We had 2 raids while doing it.  One from 10.8 till 11.11 & we heard a few planes.  At 11.20 in the middle distance we heard a warning then it was quiet till 11.22 when our siren started.  We heard a few planes at the start of the raid and it was quiet after.  AC at 12.10.  Just as we finished dinner another ARW went at 1.26pm.  Just after the alert a plane began dive bombing.  We heard him climb & then — down he came with his engine growing louder & louder then – down came the bomb & up went the plane.  One of his bombs hit Tunmarsh Lane.  The raid was quiet after.  AC at 2.9pm.

We had another raid from 2.26 till 3pm & we heard a good few planes.  During the next raid from 3.21pm till 4.6pm I got washed.  We heard a few planes during the raid & just after the AC we saw 5 planes go over.  The night raid commenced at 7.2 Bert & I played 2 games of chess.  I won the 1^st & Bert the 2^nd.  The raid was very noisy & planes were often over. The guns were very loud.  It quietened towards the end 3.30am.

Monday 21^st October 1940

Up At 7.15.  Washed and dressed & set out at 8.20.  At the Station could only book to the Monument.  On the platform I could see that some of the sheds had been done in & platform 5 by the stairs was damaged & down the other end an electric train was bashed about & the platform was damaged.  Bert told me in the evening that the train had been there for a long while.  All along by the sewers was damaged & West Ham Stn was a wreck.  All the houses by the side of the Stn had their roofs off & 1 in 5 or 6 was down.  At Bromley^VI we all had to get out & a bus took us to Whitechapel, the damage along the road was terrible.  On the way back I counted approximately 60 obvious bomb craters and besides that there were many places slightly damaged & the bombs must have fallen nearby.  From Bromley to Plaistow I counted nearly 50 hits along the railway.  The canal bridge is intact so far but the canal is damaged & many factories are smashed about.  B.A.A. is working again & Brown & Travis’s have been hit several times.  Glico have had some bombs.

I got out at the Monument & walked to the Bank.  The damage in the city is incredible.  Last night Gracechurch St was hit.  They were clearing the debris away as I went along.  There are many craters near the Bank.  I booked my ticket to Chancery Lane & from there went to Bedford Row.  I walked round for a while.  They have had bombs a couple of doors away from where I hope to work.  I went in just turned 10 past 10.  After a little delay I got my interview with the boss.  The name of the firm is Eldred Tunnel & Co 43 Bedford Row W.C. 1.  I saw Mr Tunnel & after the interview I was given my fare 1/6d & he said he would let me know shortly.  I walked to Fenchurch St from the Bank & called in at 112.  John said there was someone in the office & when I asked who he said Simpson & Buttle but as I only wanted to see T.E.B. I didn’t bother to go up.  As I walked out the siren went (10.57am) I walked to the Stn & came home.  On Bromley Stn I heard the guns & we all had to get under the arches till the train came in.  The guns were firing as I walked from Plaistow & while we had dinner the mobile gun came very close to us.  The AC went at 1.14.  I went & got “Everybody’s” then just as I was going to the pictures Freddie called & the siren went simultaneously.

After Freddie went & decided to go to the Odeon as I walked round there I could hear planes.  It was the first time I have been to the flicks for weeks & I saw a film I wanted to see for a long time. “Dr Cyclops”.  It was jolly good.  I also saw Vic Oliver & Frances Day in a daring comedy “Room for 2”.  There was an advert film “Little White Lies” & a picture about the air raids called “Britain can Take it”^VII   Quentin Reynolds made it for America but it was so good it was decided to show it here as well.  The actor’s shots were taken during an actual raid by a GPO film unit.  Home at 5.15.  The AC went at 3.35 while I was in the Odeon.  Home at 5.15 & I messed about till 7.13 when the night raid began.  Bert & I played a game of chess that ended in stalemate.  The raid was quiet compared to others.  Went to sleep at 1.30.  the night alarm was actually 30 minutes late because I first heard planes & guns at 6.45pm.

Tuesday 22^nd October 1940

AC at 4.30am.  Went to the library in the afternoon & got “Traps on the Chess Board” by Znosko Borovsky.  Had an ARW from 1.44 till 3.21 heard planes & at the end saw 7 planes make this smoke  pattern in sky

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Had another ARW from 4.54 to 5.11 but only heard one or two planes.  Freddie called later & gave me some petrol I had asked him to get me.  Then I fitted up a piece of wood on the shelf in the shed that I keep my bottles on so that none of them can fall off with the jolting they get during raids.  I’ve had several fall & one smash already.  It was dark then so I went in & read about chess till 7pm when the siren went.  Bert came in & now he’s lying under the table on the Li-lo asleep.  Mum & Dad are upstairs & Erns over in Powders.  The time is 11.25pm.  AC at 11.36pm.  I was asleep on my bed on the kitchen floor before 11.40.

Wednesday 23^rd October 1940

We had a warning at about 1.10am till approximately 1.45am.  Heard a few guns & planes.  Got up at 8.30.  During morning & afternoon I shifted round a lot of the things in the shed to make more room.  We had 2 warnings one at 1.13 till 1.40 pm & the other from 2.2pm till 2.15. During both raids I heard gunfire but I heard no planes.  Freddie came round about 5.  He brought me some stamps (I suppose he wants me to get him some more of my duplicates). About 6 I heard a jerry & the guns fired.  I suppose he was a scout.  At 6.35 pm the warning went.  Bert came in.  I beat him at a game of chess.  The raid was very quiet. AC at 2 am.

Thursday 24^th October 1940

ARW at 4.50 till 6.55am.  Heavy gunfire & bombs were dropped at Barking.  Up 8.15.  ARW at 12.35 till 12.46 all quiet.  Another one 2.26 till 3.19 also all quiet. Messed about in shed all day.  Night raid at 7.22pm.  Bert & I played 2 games of chess winning 1 each.  AC at 12.45, the raid was fairly quiet.

Friday 25^th October 1940

Another ARW at 1.15 till 4.30 which was fairly noisy.  Another ARW at 8.55 am.  2 bombs were dropped by dive bombing planes.  They fell at Poplar.  The raid was noisy.  At 10.24 a siren gave the AC & then some others gave another warning so maybe the siren went off accidentally & then others corrected it.  The AC went at 10.39.  I spent the morning & afternoon painting round the stove.  I did it green & although it looks nice it could be a better colour.  We had a warning at 12.2 till 3.17.  Planes at intervals fairly heavy gunfire.  At 6.49 the night raid began.  Bert came in. the raid was heavier than the last few nights.  The AC didn’t go till 7.4 am so we had a raid that lasted over 12 hrs – which I hoped wouldn’t happen.  The exact time was 12 ¼ hrs.

Saturday 26^th October 1940

All quiet raid between 7.28 & 7.40am.  Another ARW between 10.19 to 11.2 also all quiet.  A woman over the road moved and as mum knows someone who wants a house I went round to the persons house but she was out.  Another alarm 11.58 – 12.31.  A bomb dropped before ARW & gunfire was heavy just after.  Another from 12.56 to 1.52pm.  Heard planes & guns.  Mum had a brainwave and thought Aunt Lily would like the house.  So while mum went to see Lily I painted the grates in mums and my own room.  Mum wanted hers green but I did mine stone & I’m going to do a bit of red in it.  ARW’s from 1.57 to 2.22 

all all quiet 3.12 to 3.32

4.17 to 4.35

Freddie called.  Bert’s people moved in next door today & went down the shelter at No 25 with his family.  Siren went at 6.37.  The raid was a normal night raid and at 9.40 I thought I heard a knock & went and opened the door.  As I did so a stick of bombs fell not so far away.  Well mum and Dad have bathed during the raid so now I’m going to wash now.

Sunday 27^th October 1940

Up 8.  Got washed & dressed.  ARW 7.55 till 10 & we heard planes.  At 11.30 Lily called to see the empty house with Leslie & his girl Doris – nice girl too.  The empty house is No 30 next to Gardner’s.  At 11.35 we had another ARW.  We went over to see the house, it’s not bad.  AC at 12.16 we heard several planes & some of them were diving.  We had another raid from 12.46 to 1pm before they went.  It was the same as the previous raid.  Air Raid just after dinner at 1.46 till 2.20 pm.  Heard planes.  I helped Bert make a blackout for the kitchen.  Alarm from 4.43 till 5.38 heard a few planes.  At 6.30 am AC went in the distance and at 6.50 we got our night alarm.  I read some of “50 years a Borough, the Story of West Ham”.  When I go to the library tomorrow I’m going to see if they’ve got a book called “Old Plaistow” by John Spencer Curwen.  

Mum & Dad went to bed about 12 – they’ve done it for nearly a week now & about 12.20 I decided to sleep upstairs as well.  I never knew bed was so comfortable.  I had a terrible hard job to get up in the morning.

Monday 28^th October 1940

Up 8.20.  When Mr Fox came Mum fixed up about Aunt Lily having No 30 & then Fox gave me a ride in his car for me to show him Lily’s shop.  Aunt Lily fixed up with him & takes over from today.  

In the afternoon I went to the library & got “Revisiting my Pygmy Hosts” Paul Schebesta & “Young Men in Spats” Wodehouse.

“Old Plaistow” is a reference library book so I glanced through it in the reading room.  I must get it again when I have time to read it all.  It’s very interesting, apparently they used to have bull baiting in the Broadway years ago & it mentions about Dick Turpin working in Richmond St.  I went over the house he used to live in, years ago before it was pulled down, I suppose I was about 10 or 11 at the time.  There was a whole gang of us & it ended by us being chased away by the chap next door.  No-one lived in the house & it was in a terribly dilapidated state.  Actually it wasn’t safe because the ceilings were falling & the stairs were rotting but still – we had an afternoons fun.

The siren went while I was in the library.  It was today’s 3^rd.  The first went at 6.45 am and lasted till 7.5.  it was quiet.  The 2^nd one went at 1.7 till 1.34 I heard a few lanes.  That siren went while I was listening to the news that Greece is at war with Italy.  That gives us our chance now.  If we can drive the Wops out of Albania maybe we could invade Italy.

The 3^rd warning went at 2.43 till 3.32.  All quiet.  Another at 4.34 till 5.30.  We heard planes just before the siren but it was all quiet after the siren went.  A Lily called about 5.30 & stopped till 6.15.  the night raid began at 6.49.  I spent most of the time reading.  The raid was fairly noisy.  Bed about 1.

Tuesday 29^th October 1940

AC at 7.20.  Up 10.  Air raid at 11.1 till 11.33 few planes about.  Next ARW at 12.40 just after ARW the guns opened fire & 6 bombs were dropped.  Quiet after.  AC at 1.17.  another alarm at 1.30 till 1.46.  Guns opened up on a few planes.  Went to library & got “A Child in the Sun” Trevor Dalton & “Hot Water” by Wodehouse.  Alarm at 4.8 till 5.36.  A lot of planes were over I saw 1 flying very low I think it was a bomber.  Night raid began at 6.54.  It was fairly quiet.  Several flares were dropped all round us.  I stopped up reading & went to bed at about 4.15.  I started to teach Ern how to play chess & we had one game which I won.

Wednesday 30^th October 1940

AC at 4.55 am.  Up 10.45.  AC at 11.49 till 12.39.  I heard a few planes just after siren.  In the afternoon Mr & Mrs Rose came round to clean up Lily’s house.  While they were working the siren went at 3.55 we heard a few planes.  Mr & Mrs Rose went before the AC at 5 pm.  Went to library & got “Eggs Beans & Crumpets” by P.G. Wodehouse.

Night Alarm began at 7.7.  It was rather noisier than the last few night raids but it quietened after a while.  Bed about 1.

Thursday 31^st October 1940

AC at 4.43am.  Up at 10.30.  It had been arranged for me to go & meet Mr Rose & take a truck to Auntie Lily’s house and then help to load some of her coal onto it & bring it to no. 30.  I was going on my bike but it was raining so hard that I went by bus.  There was a “clippie” on this bus being taught by a man conductor – the first one I’ve seen. I took the truck to Aunt Lily’s place & then came home to dinner. While I was at dinner the siren went – at 1.49.  just as I was going to go to Aunt Lily’s, Leslie turned up with a truck full of coal so we emptied that load – and a job it was with the rain pouring down in buckets.  We made 3 trips after that with it raining all the time – pushed the truck to A Lily’s house – up & down the cellar with buckets of coal – push the truck back to No 30 – back to A Lily’s.  when we had finished I had about ½ a dozen cuts & grazes & I was wet through & there is still more to come – a job for Saturday.  Just as we were leaving A Lily’s with the last load the AC went & as the siren is on the coffee house we heard it – it was nearly as bad as when I was at Thurley’s with a siren next door.  Time was 4.39 and the raid was all quiet.  

Next alarm at 6.39pm.  Ern & I played 4 games of draughts which I won.  1 game with 4 draughts which Ern won & 1 game of pyramids which Ern won.  Bert came in for a while then as they didn’t go down the shelter we played a game of chess which I won.  The AC went at 9.6pm.  there were a few noisy spasms but on the whole the raid wasn’t too bad. 

Before we went to bed Ern & I played cards for a while.  Bed 1.30. 

Saturday 1^st November 1940

I woke up in the night & heard the guns firing.  The ARW had gone at 3.16am, the raid lasted till 7.14.  I got up at 8.13 when the siren went.  We heard nothing during the raid & the AC went at 8.27.  At 11.24 the sirens went & as it was still sounding about 8 bombs were dropped – all near the Barking Rd.  After the first couple of minutes we only heard a few planes now & again as usual, just before the A.C. the guns fired at the Jerries and the siren went at 11.52am.  Next ARW at 1.22 till 3pm.  We heard a few planes.  I spent the afternoon in the shed.  Today’s 5^th alarm was at 6.45pm.  I had arranged to help Bert make his model planes in his house during tonight’s raid but he didn’t give me a call so I played patients most of the time.

Saturday 2^nd November 1940

AC at 2.8 am there were noisy spells in the raid but there were periods of quiet.  At 2.55am another alarm went & it lasted till 4.55.  A few planes & guns were heard.  A 2^nd alarm went at 6.15am till 7.25am.  Planes were heard.  At 8.45am till 9.2 another warning.  Heard planes & guns.  10.8 till 10.44 another raid heard planes & guns.  

Another 1.37 till 1.45. Heard planes & guns at beginning.

Night raid began at 6.50 but it frizzled out & the AC went at 11.18pm.  A fire was started towards the docks early in the raid.  I was in with Bert helping him to make his Hurricane.

During the morning Leslie & I got nearly all Aunt Lily’s coal away.  I got 2/6 for it.

Sunday 3^rd November 1940

Up 10.30 after I had washed & dressed Ern & I went over to No 30 to mend a blind.  When we got over there we heard footsteps & some whispering upstairs & then silence.  Ern & I looked at each other & then I tore up the stairs and as I turned round I was just going to punch a fellow on the jaw when I saw I would have hurt Leslie if I did so.  Joyce (Alberts girl) and he had brought some of his books along & they put them in a cupboard.  When Ern & I finished the blind we put the globes and bulbs on the room that were without.  Then they fused, we were messing about for a long while before we got things right.  It seems that the previous occupant had been messing about with the lights thinking he knew all about electricity & he’s messed them up.  Even when we finished one room still would not light – the flex was broken somewhere evidently.  Before they went I took Les & Joyce round to Giles to see why he hadn’t called to see Lily.  While we were round there the guns fired at a plane.  Mr Giles said he would call on Lily later on.  Today’s only raid lasted from 5.30 till 6.30pm & we heard a few planes & some guns.  I went in with Bert for a few hours & did a bit more model aeroplane.

Ern and I played about ½ a day games of draughts before I went in & before I went to bed.  We played some more games of draughts and also cards.  Bed 2am.  

Monday 4^th November 1940

Up 11.  We heard a plane come over very low in the morning & in the afternoon the guns fired on a plane but there was no warning.  I spent the afternoon going through the music as I’m Cataloguing it.
Today’s only alarm went at 6.36 & lasted till 7.5am. I was in with Bert till 10. The raid was noisy at times & we had lulls after every plane had gone over. Bed 2am.

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I: On clearing dads house I found an old battered, brown, cardboard suitcase full of rusty meccano, which sold at auction for over £100.
Wikipedia –  Meccano is a model construction system created in Liverpool, United Kingdom, by Frank Hornby. The brand now maintains a manufacturing facility in Calais, France. Meccano consists of reusable metal strips, plates, angle girders, wheels, axles and gears, and high quality plastic parts that are connected together using nuts, bolts and set screws (also known as grub screws). It enables the building of working models and mechanical devices. Although Meccano has always been seen as an engaging education toy, today the brand focuses on promoting engineering and robotics through fun play to support STEM learning.
The ideas for Meccano were first conceived by Hornby in 1898 and he developed and patented the construction kit as “Mechanics Made Easy” in 1901. The name was later changed to “Meccano” and manufactured by the British company, Meccano Ltd, between 1908 and 1980. It is now manufactured in France and China by Meccano S.N. of France, part of the Canadian Spin Master toy company. In the United States, a competitive toy with a similar play pattern was launched in 1913 under the Erector Set brand. Erector was purchased by the Meccano company in 2000 and continued to be sold under Erector Sets in the US through early 2015. After August 2015, the Erector brand was relaunched under the global brand name Meccano.

II: http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/bills/article-1633409/Historic-inflation-calculator-value-money-changed-1900.html  Today (2017) £ 7.70p

III: Wikipedia
The Avro 679 Manchester was a British twin-engine medium bomber developed and manufactured by the Avro aircraft company in the United Kingdom. While not being built in great numbers, it was the forerunner of the famed and vastly more successful four-engined Avro Lancaster, which would become one of the most capable strategic bombers of the Second World War.
Avro designed the Manchester in conformance with the requirements laid out by the British Air Ministry, which sought a capable medium bomber with which to equip the Royal Air Force (RAF) and to replace its inventory of twin-engine bombers, such as the Armstrong Whitworth Whitley, Handley Page Hampden and Vickers Wellington. Performing its maiden flight on 25 July 1939, the Manchester entered squadron service in November 1940, just over twelve months after the outbreak of the war.
Operated by both RAF and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), the Manchester came to be regarded as an operational failure, primarily as a result of its Rolls-Royce Vulture engines, which were underdeveloped and hence underpowered and unreliable, and production was terminated in 1941. However, the Manchester was redesigned into a four-engined heavy bomber, powered by the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine instead, which became known as the Lancaster.

IV: Wikipedia
The Leader was a Pearson’s magazine that became part of Oldham’s and then Holton Press / Associated Periodicals in the mid-1940s. It came out on a Saturday as an ‘all-family news magazine’.

V: Wikipedia
In Town Tonight was a BBC radio programme broadcast on Saturday evening from 1933 to 1960 (except for a period of 26 weeks in 1937 when The BBC presents the ABC was broadcast instead). It was an early example of the chat show, originally presented by Eric Moskowitz.
Its theme music was the Knightsbridge March by Eric Coates. Its introductory sequence had a voice crying “Stop” to interrupt the sound of busy central London, before an announcer said “Once more we stop the mighty roar of London’s traffic …” At the end of the programme the voice would say “Carry on, London”.
A series of outside broadcast spots were included in the 1940s: “Standing on the Corner” with Michael Standing, then “Man on the Street” with Stewart Macpherson and Harold Warrender, and “On the Job” with John Ellison, later Brian Johnston; Johnston continued in the segment “Let’s Go Somewhere” from 1948 to 1952. As part of this he stayed alone in the Chamber of Horrors, rode a circus horse, lay under a passing train, was hauled out of the sea by a helicopter and was attacked by a police dog.
The 1000th episode included appearances by Errol Flynn, Gary Cooper, Jane Russell, and Doris Day: this was a few weeks before it ended.

VI: Bromley By Bow

VII: British Universities Film and Video Council
‘The film was a collaboration by the whole unit. Everything else stopped for it’ Harry Watt has said. ‘I think I wrote the script. At least I wrote it down, but let us say it was a communal script. It was one night of the Blitz, from sunset to sunrise. The whole theme was how extraordinary it was that London went back to normality so quickly. We worked literally day and night’. The American journalist Quentin Reynolds, who presents it as a film despatch from London, took it straight to the White House where (under the title LONDON CAN TAKE IT) it gave Roosevelt the kind of material he needed to swing US popular opinion behind Britain in the war.

Book 19

Tuesday 5^th November 1940

No fireworks or bonfires today & even the night raid didn’t produce any fireworks.  Up at 10.  Alarm from 10.12 till 10.47am.  All quiet.  Another from 11.6 till 12.3pm.  All quiet.  In the afternoon I painted the back of the front door of No 30.  Just as I was going to start Mrs Rose came to finish clearing the house.  While she was here we had a 3^rd alarm from 2.52 till 3.30pm.  Heard planes.  4^th alarm 4.9 till 4.46pm  & we heard planes.  At the end of the raid we saw one plane & I don’t think it was British.  Night alarm at 6.22pm till 8.21 am. It lasted 14 hrs all but a minute.  If only we could have some more atrocious weather to keep the devils away at nights.  I was in with Bert. The raid wasn’t too bad.  Bed 1am

Wednesday 6^th November 1940

Up at 9.30.  I got on cataloguing my music & in the afternoon just after our 2^nd raid mum went out.  The 2 raids were: 2.43pm 3.15pm all quiet

                                3.31pm 3.52pm all quiet

After mum went out I sat playing the piano.  While I was in the middle of “You made me Love you” about 4.10pm I heard a terrific rat tat on the door, wondering who on earth it was I went and opened it.  Mrs Clay was there & she gasped out something about “Is your stirrup pump any good for a fire,  there’s a woman got all her bedclothes alight”.  I dashed out to the back and grabbed the pump & bucket of water & dashed back again into the street.  Meanwhile Mrs Clay had seen Bob & yelled over to him & he was racing over.  I went to dash into 33 where the fire was (at 33 lives a young married woman & at 35 lives the rest of her family) when Mrs Clay yelled not there next door so I followed Bob into 35.  It was a job to get through the kitchen for all round the place was piled the air raid shelter bedclothes & the table had been pushed on the skew wiff.  I had pump in one had & bucket in the other & while manoeuvring round I spilt some of the water on the floor (it’s strange how your brain remembers certain things & forgets others).  I recall that vividly yet other things only a blurred vision is all I have (there was a gate in the fence & we ran through that).  One glance told us that it was hopeless to try and fight the fire with a S.P.  I thought the fire was in the bedroom & Mrs Clay said bedclothes but it was the air raid shelter bedclothes being aired in the kitchen which caught.  I said to Bob “I’ll call the brigade & darted out again.  In the ¼ minute I had been going through & coming back through 35 a decent sized crowd had assembled.  I yelled something about “get water, plenty of water” as I started to run towards the phone box in North St.  As I ran down Tweedmouth Rd I yelled out to some people about the fire & they went chasing down to see what they could do.  When I got to the phone box I saw it was occupied by some woman gassing away. As my knowledge of psychology told me that if I opened the door & told her I wanted to make an emergency call she would have just gaped at me & in less that the time it would take to tell her the story I could get round to the phone outside the Post Office.  When I got there I dialled 999 – nothing happed – 999 brr brr emergency service calling.  

Me Plaistow fire station please.  

Operator Plaistow fire – what is your number.  

Me Graywood 0480 (or whatever it was)

A new voice Prince Regent House Fire Stn.

Me there is a fire in Edinburgh Rd if you’ll send the fire engine to North St library I’ll direct it.

New voice ‘it’s just going.

Me thank you.

Then I doubled back to the corner of Stirling Rd to wait for the engine.  While I was there I saw Miss Elson & her mother.  She will let me know when she comes back for good.  I waited what seemed ages for the fire engine.  When it did come, instead of coming to me it went on round towards the High St.  I yelled out to it & a taxi just behind it saw me & went down Stirling Rd.  One of the firemen on the engine saw me and yelled to the driver who backed & went down Stirling Rd.  I was too late to jump on it or I would have enjoyed the ride home because I was nearly home.  I managed to run back however but when I got back I was too exhausted, as I was unused to such strenuous exercise. It must be a couple of years since I did any real running, to do anything but stand & watch.  While I had gone a gang of men had formed a bucket chain & had subdued the fire.  Keeping it to the kitchen and scullery.

Mrs Tunnage the woman ARP warden had gone up to the Broadway & broken the fire alarm.  That was the reason the girl at the station said the men were just leaving & also why the engine went on up the Broadway, they thought someone would be at the fire alarm.  The firemen ran one hose out from the engine & got the water from a hydrant outside Browns.  Other people had got all the furniture out of the front room.  

What actually happened was this. The young woman was airing the shelter bedclothes in front of the open fire & had then gone into her mother’s round the back way.  While she was in there a spark must have fallen on the blankets & set them alight.  When she went back – I should think not more than 5 minutes after the spark fell – the place was beginning to flare.  She ran out through the back way again – incidentally fanning the flames & making it worse than it would have been, by leaving the doors open – & had run into the street screaming.  She was half hysterical & Mrs Clay who was out there did all the calling for people.  The firemen arrived about 4.15 or 4.20 & they had got it out in about 5 minutes after that.  I had to go through for my pump & bucket. In the garden had been thrown all the furniture with bits burnt off it & laying in the mud was a pile of partly burnt blankets.  A fireman was just emptying a dustbin full of ashes on the garden. The firemen were around until nearly 5.15, clearing up etc.  I helped the driver of the Taxi to back into Southern Rd.  He had to take the pump off to do it & it got caught in the drain outside.  The wood shop & I had to help him push it before it would move.  It started to rain then & I helped to move the furniture that was in the street into No 35.  There was a car full of police there & one of them got the woman’s bag & the paper money although charred was ok.  The last car left about 5.30 & except for a smell of burnt stuff & the window frame out & the emptiness of the front room of no 33 everything was again normal.  People brought stirrup pumps from all round.  But the bucket gang was most successful I think.

I went round to the library and got back just as the siren went at 6.21pm.  I went into Bert’s & we nearly finished the plane.  I came in about 11.  The raid was noisier than usual – the moon is waxing and it now at its first quarter – it gradually quietened although at 5 & 6 the guns were firing.  I went to bed at 2.  AC at 7.53am.

Thursday 7^th November 1940

Spent the morning & afternoon cataloguing my music.  Ern & Vic went up West to see a film in the afternoon.  We had an ARW at 12.15 till 1.7pm.  We heard planes & guns at the beginning, but after it was quiet.  The night alarm went at 6.55pm.  I went in with Bert.  When I left at 1 there was very little to be done to the plane.  The raid was fairly bad at first.  About 9.30 there was a lull & for some reason we had all stopped talking and then ——— CRASH ! ——- something had come through the roof.  We looked at one another with frightened expressions on our faces & then I said “Come on. Its upstairs”.  Bert however, insisted it was the front windows.  We went & looked in the front room & as I expected found nothing – then I, Bert, Stan & Joyce went upstairs.  There was nothing in the back or middle rooms.  But when we pulled down the blinds & switched on the light we found a neat little hole in the ceiling about as big as this    

• 

& on the bed I found the bottom of an AA shell.  It was a relief to find it was only that as I had been expecting an incendiary bomb.  It frightened Joyce a bit and she cried but she was o.k.  when I came in.  

Mum saw the young woman at 33 this morning & she was asked to thank me for what I did.  That was the 2^nd fire I’ve been in.  At the junior school a lot of bees’ wax caught fire & Mr Reavely in trying to turn out the gas tipped it all over the floor round by the door.  We almost had to jump through flames to get out of the classroom. 

Besides that we’ve had a fire at the wood shop, one at Mahoney’s and one in Glasgow Rd.  Well I’ve often wondered what happened when you dial 999 & I found out yesterday.  The raid was still fairly bad at 11 but after that it quietened.  I went to the library this afternoon & got “William the Dictator” R Crompton & “Laughing Gas “ Wodehouse.  Bed 1.30 am.

Friday 8^th November 1940

AC at 3.15am.  Up at 8.20.  ARW at 10.15 till 11.50am.  Heard a few planes.  About 10.45 the van arrived with Aunt Lily’s furniture in it, with Mr Rose to superintend.  I helped the men move the stuff in & we laid the lino in the kitchen.  The ‘Boss’ & ‘Arthur’ finished & left about 1.30.  The Boss told me once, while we were waiting for Arthur that yesterday he saw the council fellow who is in charge of the councils free removing & complained that he was taking away his living.  At one time during the argument that followed the council chap said “all he was concerned with was getting the stuff shifted & if anything was damaged the owners would get no recompense.  He was supposed to have said this in front of a witness.  The boss said that what he & Arthur had done in a few hours would have taken 6 council men all day & they would have taken 4 or 5 times as much room.  That is a fact.  Lily has a lot of stuff & the way it was packed the van was not full & I bet it would have taken two vans if the council road sweepers & dustmen cum furniture removers had done it, – but they would probably have done what they usually do – tied them all on with rope.  Arthurs sister or sister-in-law had her piano spoilt by them the other week, and the other day in Whitwell Rd they dropped a piano out of a 3^rd floor window on to the ground – or so the ‘Boss’ said.  We had another ARW from 1.47 to 2.37.

When the men left Mum, Mr Rose & I went upstairs to lay the front bedroom lino.  At 1.47 the siren went & even as it did so we heard the drone of planes & 2 bombs dropped.  We all dashed out of the bedroom & as we did so 2 more bombs dropped.  As I got to the front door I head 2 kiddies screaming, I was just going to rush and grab them when their mother darted out for them.  When the planes had gone we went over home with Mr Rose.  Some more planes went over & I saw one flying very low.  Mr Rose told us that he had an incendiary bomb fall in his garden. 3 feet from the house.  He said they put it out with earth.

Another raid from 4.50 to 5.16.  heard planes.  When Leslie came home I helped him fix up a blackout & showed him where some of the things were put.  

The night alarm went at 6.23 pm & as the raid began we could see some planes towards the S.E.   Went in Bert’s.  We started to camouflage the plane, played a game of chess. I won.  At 8.30 bombs were dropped and at 8.40, the loudest guns I’ve ever heard were fired.  Came in about 10.45.  When Ern came in he said bombs had fallen near Star Lane where we used to live.  Bed 1.30am.

Mrs Clay found today that the AA shell bottom actually struck the hearth & then bounced onto the bed.   

Saturday 9^th November 1940

AC at 5.50 am.  Up 12.10.  Did some music cataloguing after dinner.  ARW at 2.4 guns fired no siren sounded.  Mum went out at 3.  Noisy at 3.15.  Again at 4 to 4.15.  The AC went at 4.22 just after mum came back.  Bert showed me today what actually happed with the shell bottom fell through the roof.  It struck floor, wall and ceiling before landing on the bed like this.

• 

Went to library & got “Half a Million Tramps” by W.A. Gape & “Coming Sir” D. Marlowe.  

Just before I left the library we had an ARW, time 5pm.  AC 5.39 heard planes and guns.  16 minutes after at 5.55 the night alarm went.  I went into Bert’s.  The raid was fairly noisy at first.  Came in at 10.30. the raid was quiet after 11.30.  I went to bed at 12.30am.

Dad found out today that 4 houses were demolished in Durham Rd where Mr Rose lives & bombs fell in the road where Mr Cooper lives.  A plane crashed at Bromley Kent.  

The AC went at 12.55.  I listened to it for about 5 minutes gradually louder then, at its peak when our siren sounded & then gradually diminishing when it had almost died away a nearer siren decided to sound it & after that had died away it was quiet.  The AC is certainly the sweetest music today & ARWs – a hideous cacophony of sound – up & down up & down, an absolutely fear inspiring sound.

About 1.10 Ern came in, he brought one of his pals in & he slept downstairs all night.

Sunday 10^th November 1940

ARW from 3.55 to 7.20am.  Planes & guns heard. Ern woke me at 9.15.  Got up and washed.  After breakfast, I went for a short walk.  Mum went over to A Lily’s & she gave mum 3d for some screws I had bought to screw the casters in the kitchen table last Friday.  

Bert came in in the afternoon & we held a jam session.  Night alarm at 6.30 pm just after I went into Bert’s. But the guns were firing at 6.20.  The raid was fairly noisy at first.  Bert nearly finished camouflaging the plane while I played with the others, various games.  I lost my first game of shove-halfpenny, to Stan – the expert.  Before I came in we all played pontoon.  As we weren’t playing for money – only lending.  I won over a 1/-but still, better win in fun than lose in earnest, as I would do if we really played for money.  I came in at 10.50.  At 10.57 I heard an AC sound on the wireless, the programme wasn’t coming from Portland Place though, because the local sirens did not sound.

1 bomb dropped about 12.  At 1am when I went to bed 4 more were dropped & again at 2.30 Jerry left visiting cards.

Monday 11^th November 1940

AC at 5.5am.  ARW at 9.20am. Up 9.30. Planes went over AC at 10.24am.  Another alarm at 10.40am AC at 11.12am.  Went to barbers.  The alarm went just after I got in the barbers.  The guns fired on some planes at the start but it was quiet after.

When Dad came in Rose, Lily’s sister, was with him.  She had come up from where she is evacuated to get some stuff & had been in Woodmansee’s.  AR warning at 1.18 to 1.40 heard planes.  Another alarm from 2.48 to 3.13.  I wrote 2 letters to firms I got from the Daily Telegraph.  The 2.4 alarm was fairly quiet.  ARW 4.0 to 5.36.  The guns were heavy. Once or twice other planes came over.  

During the heavy period Freddie came into shelter.  He left before the AC.  Night raid began at 6.  Played Draughts with Ern.  I didn’t go into Bert’s as I wanted to do some book-keeping.  The raid wasn’t very noisy & at 9.5pm the AC went.  Although today is Armistice Day I didn’t see one poppy seller.  One of those bombs last night hit The Cedars at West Ham Park and killed a sergeant & injured 21 men.  Bed 12.30

Tuesday 12^th November 1940

Up 12.  ARW at 11.35am till 12.11, it was quiet.

Went to library in afternoon got “Raggle Taggle” Starkie & “The Submerged Tenth” Bentley.

ARW 3.39 till 3.49.  Heard nil.  Night alarm at 6.43pm just before it went locally I heard a hooter give 2 quick, low, blasts on the wireless.

I went & stood out in the garden.  It was quiet for between 5 & 10 minutes, then away to the N.N.W. I saw a couple of shells explode – then a line of them slightly further north.  After about 15 secs I heard the rumble of guns from the same direction.  It was quiet again for a while, then from N to S there went a shooting star, leaving a tail behind it.  It went in about 3 secs.

In a couple of minutes, I heard the rumble of guns this time from the direction of Tilbury.  I heard them for a long while.  It was nearly as light as day in the garden for we will have a full moon on the 15^th. 

Bert came out after a while & he, I, and Dad, who also came out, stood & watched the shells bursting & listening to the gunfire drawing nearer.  We heard the first plane go over & die away & then the guns died down & it was silent again.  

I went in Bert’s house then & after steaming the Hurricane over a kettle to tighten the tissue we covered it with, we played 2 games of chess.  Bert won the first & I won the 2^nd – after nearly losing it.  

I came in at 10.15.  At 11.5 some bombs dropped nearby.  The planes haven’t been so frequent for the past hour.  I may as well be off to bed now. 

Wednesday 13^th November 1940

Up 10.45.  ARW 11 till 11.49.  Quiet.  Went to library saw an ad. & wrote a letter to them.  When Dad went back to work from dinner I went with him & bought some envelopes at Whittle’s, paid the gas bill & bought some stamps.  When I got home I posted my letter.  Had 2 ARWs  1.26pm 2.55pm.  Heard guns & planes.  Saw 1 plane.  3.21pm 4.5pm Heard guns & planes.  Fight towards E.  Night alarm at 6.12.  Played 3 games of chess in Bert’s house.  He won 1^st, I won 2^nd & 3^rd.  AC went about 9.45 when I came in at 10.15 no one had heard it so we don’t know the exact time & as Dad is not going in tomorrow morning – they’ve got a scheme to give days off because of the ARW’s – we shan’t know the exact time till Friday when Dad sees the AR warden he knows.

Thursday 14^th November 1940

Up 10.30 ARW 11.8am 11.35am Heard nothing.

Dad went to the city to get some wines & had a walk round.

ARW 1.30pm to 1.43pm Heard nothing.

Went to library & got “Mr Mullins Speaking” Wodehouse & “Volume 81 of Pearson’s Magazine”.^I

Ern & I went to the Carlton in the evening.  Saw “3 Faces West” & Busman Holiday”.

The guns started at 6.30 but the ARW didn’t go till 7.  We came out when the show ended at 7.50.  it was quiet from 7.30 to 11 or so.  Fairly noisy after.  Went into Bert’s.  Played 5 chess games.  Winners Bert 1, Don 2, Bert 3 Don 4, Don 5.

Friday 15^th November 1940

AC at 6.15am.

Up 10.45. alarm 10.51 to 11.4.  Heard nothing.  Went to library & got “Tropes on the Chess Board”.  ARW 1.22 to 2.14.  Guns fired on planes just after the ARW & we got our evening – Friday – afternoon – just -after – dinner pay packet.  They dropped about 4 or 6 bombs.

Night raid 6.17pm to 7.3am.  the guns were heavy & bombs were dropped.  Went in Bert’s.  Played 5 games of chess.  Results 1 Bert, 2 Don,3 Done, 4 Done ,5 Bert.

Bed 2am.

Saturday 16^th November 1940

Up 11.30.  Heard that a bomb had dropped in Kent St.  Auntie Maud came to see us.  She had come up from Bromley Kent where she’s gone with the firm where one of the boys has gone.  She was staying with Lily.  I went to see Freddie after dinner while Aunt Maud was still here.  Mum had been told that there were houses down in Kent St & 1 person had been killed but when I got there it must have been a100lb bomb that fell.  It is in this position 

• 

The house it fell beside had had an oil bomb in front of it, directly on the railing & there is a small crater there.  

The H.E.^II fell by the garden fence.  The crater is about 5 ft deep by 10 ft wide.  The garden fence is down & one or 2 windows are out but it did no real damage except to cut the water supply off Kent St.  Freddie didn’t even know a bomb had fallen till he saw the crater this morning.

Bert got “Until you Fall in Love” 1/- in the afternoon when he was out.

ARW at 5.50pm went into Bert’s house.  Played 3 games of chess.  Bert won one, we drew the 2^nd & I won the 3^rd.  Came in about 10.30.  Bed 12.30am.  AC at 12.55am.

The raid was fairly noisy.

Sunday 17^th November 1940

ARW 4.35 am to 6.45.  Guns & planes heard same time as siren.  The raid was fairly noisy.  Another 9.5 to 9.30.  all quiet.  I got up at 11.

In the afternoon I went in Bert’s house & we mended his drum.  (He cut the skin slightly so we put a rubber patch to stop it spreading).

Later we went in the front room for some Rhythm – as we were preparing A Lily & A Maud knocked to give mum A Lily’s rent for Mr Fox.

When Bert had gone Aunt Maud wanted to know if we were in a jazz band. (we must be good).  ARW 6.53pm.  I went in Bert’s. 3 games of chess.  Winners Bert, Don, Don.

4 bombs dropped at 7.30 or just before – fairly near.  AC at 7.34 another alarm 7.57 about 9 some more bombs dropped but we didn’t hear them – Ern told me about them.  I came in at 10.45.  Ern & I played cards when the others were asleep.  At 11.45 some more bombs dropped – uncomfortably close & at 12.20 a breadbasket fell very nearby.  We could hear the small bombs popping off. (they don’t make enough noise to be called explosions).

Bed 2am.  More bombs at 3am.

Monday 18^th November 1940

Up 8.45.  went to Electricity Office, in morning to change some bulbs and bought some paint at Page Calnan.  ARW 1.2 to 1.17.  Heard nothing.  In the afternoon I painted 2 doors & round the kitchen hearth.  We don’t like it green so I did it mid stone.  

Went into Bert’s.  He’s got a new job starts next Monday. 

We played 2 games of Chess, I won both.

ARW 8.25 to 9.50.  Heard plane before alarm.  Heard nothing during alert. Another raid 10.18 to 11.55.  Heard nothing.  Came in & played cards with Ern.  ARW 12.30am bed 1.15.

Tuesday 19^th November 1940

AC 3.55am.  We heard 2 planes before alarm & after the siren it was fairly noisy.  ARW 5.40.  noisy.  Bombs dropped.  Guns fairly near.  AC 7.40am.  up 9am.  Messed about all day. 

Went in Bert’s after ARW at 6.5pm.  We played cards etc.  Came in 10.15.  Played cards with Ern.

Wednesday 20^th November 1940

Bed 1.15am. AC at 6.35. the raid was fairly noisy to 11 quiet after.  Up 9.15.  Went to library.  Wrote after a job.  Spent the afternoon painting doors etc.  Went into Bert’s after ARW at 6.58.  Played cards.  Came in 10.15. Bed 12.30

Thursday 21^st November 1940

Woken up at 4.10 by terrific explosions.  Found after that they were bombs.  Hit Prince Regents Lane near Beckton Rd.  AC 7.55am.  Up 9am.  ARW 11.33 – 11.44 all quiet.  Same 11.54 – 12.4.

Same also 1.59 to 2.55.  ARW at 7.3.  Went into Bert’s till 10.15.  I’ve caught what Dad had a week or so ago – impetigo.  The stuff Dad used I applied to my bad places & does it burn – I will have to give up sugar till it goes.  Bed 12.30am.  AC 12.15pm.  The raid wasn’t very noisy but there were some planes & guns heard.

Friday 22^nd November 1940

ARW 2.45pm to 3.40am.  Fairly noisy towards end of raid.  Up 9am.  When mum went out she met Doris.  Doris came home with her.  They are moving to Shrewsbury Rd today.  

Went up library.  In Daily Telegraph I saw an ad for junior Clerks (Male & Female) that had been in there yesterday so I decided to go after it.  The address was J. Collett 41.3 Charterhouse Sq E.C.1.  It took me from 11.0 to 12.15 to get to the place – it’s a hat manufacturing place.  The chap I saw asked me to call back about 1.20 as the chap who did the interviewing was at lunch.  I called back at 1.20 & another fellow saw me, so I told him what I wanted & he did some phoning & a chap who looked like this boss came & asked me what I wanted, then he vanished & after a while another man came over & took me to his desk & took down all particulars.  When he had nearly finished another man came and said that if I got the job I would get 25/- per week, but there was a chap he had to see tomorrow.  If I got the job they would write me a letter & I could start as soon as I got the letter.  I got home at 2.35.  the damage round the entrance to the actual underground is terrific nearly all the wall is down & there is hardly a house standing nearby.

Went to Library & got “Strategy & Tactics in Chess” Dr. Max Euwe^III & “Dry batteries & how to make Them” Haybee.

ARW at 6.16pm.  Dad & I played draughts & then mum & I played.  Bed 12.30

Saturday 23^rd November 1940

AC 8pm.  The raid was quiet mostly.  Up 8.45.

Walter came just after we had an ARW at 9.6.  AC 9.26 all quiet.  About 9.20 he took Ern to work in his car.  Went to Erns shop with Bert & then we bought some music at the British Home Stores.  Got “Memories Live Longer than Dreams” & “Arm in Arm Together”.  ARW 1.30pm to 1.55pm.  All quiet.

Bert & I played some music.  ARW 4pm.  Many planes came over & the air was filled with their noise.  Few guns fired at them.  Quiet after about 15 mins.  AC 4.45.

Bert called over the fence at about 7.45 & said that a warning had gone at 6.50 (App) and an AC at 7.20 (app) but they were only just audible.  So Dad will ask the Warden he knows about them, and see whether they applied to us, if so we will record them, if they don’t we will merely note them.  Went in Bert’s.  Beat him twice at Chess.  Bed 12.30.

Sunday 24^th November 1940

Up 11am.  AC 7am.  The raid was quiet mostly.  Freddie called just before 11, that’s why I got up.

ARW 1.23pm to 1.56.  Heard planes.  Bathed.  Bert came in.  After tea Leslie & Doris came over with the rent.  ARW 6.49 to 7.2.

Guns were firing at a couple of planes before alarm.  Quiet after. ARW.  I went to the off licence after the AC.  The searchlights were out as I came back & the guns started to fire in the distance as I came in.  Heavy gunfire at 7.10 & again at 7.35 when the ARW sounded.  Mum Dad Ern & I played games during the evening.  AC at 10.17.  We heard about ½ a dozen planes during the raid.  Guns heavy 2 or 3 times.   Bed 11.45.

Monday 25^th November 1940

MY 16^th Birthday

Mum gave me 2/6 & Dad promised a £1.  I didn’t get a letter from Collett’s.  In the afternoon Harold called with his girl Edie.  She’s not bad.  Went to Library & got Volume 85 of Pearson’s Magazine.  Hillyer had my November “GSM” in.  

I’ve got rid of most of the scabs on my face.  

We had one alarm from 11.50 to 12.18.  Guns fired on a lone plane about 12.10.  Bed 11.30pm.

Tuesday 26^th November 1940

Up 8.30.  Stopped in all day.  In afternoon we had a raid 1.40- 1.55 heard nothing.  We had 25 hours of quiet before that alarm.

Another alarm 7.25 to 10.58 heard plane before ARW.  Only a couple of planes over after alarm and a few guns. Bert came in & I beat him at chess twice. Bed 12.30

Wednesday 27^th November 1940

Up 8.38.  went up library.  ARW 6.55 am to 7.40.  Guns fired.  4 bombs dropped on Barking.  Planes heard.

ARW 11am to 11.16 all quiet.

ARW 3.45 pm 4.23pm.  All quiet.

ARW heard very faintly at 7.20.  Our alarm went 7.22.  Bert & I stood in the garden & saw the searchlights sweep the sky then distant gun flashes – a plane in the distance – it got nearer & then the guns started.  I went in Bert’s & played cards, came in 10.15.  Bed 12.  Raid quiet after 10.45.  AC 1.40am.

Thursday 28^th November 1940

Dad didn’t have to go in today.  At 10.30 he and mum went up to Selfridges, Gamage’s, etc.  cooked my dinner at 12.  Went up library in morning & got “Do You Know” for Mr Page.  They wanted something to do in the shelter. 

ARW 6.20am to 7.50 am.  1 or 2 guns fired.  As I was having my dinner I heard some bangs & thought someone was beating their carpets.  Then Mrs Edyneats came yelling for Mrs Clay to go down her shelter so I dashed into the garden.  Stretching across the sky form E to W was a long streak left by a Jerry.  The guns were firing on him & the sky was dotted with their bursts.  That’s what I thought was someone beating a carpet.  Mr Newman stood in his garden blowing his whistle & then the siren went.  Time 12.28.  After that plane went it was quiet.  Mum & Dad said that the plane was almost over them. He was on reconnaissance & was shot down going back.  AC 12.43pm.  

ARW 2.48pm till 3.35pm.  Heard a couple of planes.  Mum & Dad home about 4.15.  They bought me 2 ties.  Night alarm at 6.40.  Bert came in & Dad, He, & I played Bagatelle.  I won Dad was 2^nd Bert lost.  Bert & I played cribbage.  He went in at 10.15.

BED 12.10.

The raid wasn’t very noisy just after 12 more planes were coming than usual.  AC 4.20am.

Friday 29^th November 1940

Up 8.45.  Fred came round in the evening.  He’s got blood poisoning caused by a bomb splinter cutting his back while helping to get people out of a place bombed just before at Cumberland Rd.  Heard planes 2 times in morning.  ARW 11.58am to 12.8pm.  All quiet.  ARW 12.48pm till 1.15pm all quiet.  1.50pm 2.45 pm alarm.  All quiet.  Night Alarm at 6.16 pm.  Planes roar over at 2 or 3 minute intervals at 6.45 dad went to the front door & called mum & I out.  There were 4 flares visible.  I in the distance over the city & 3 in the shape of a triangle/pyramid.  

They fell very slowly & we watched them.  As they got lower we began to see little red sparks going up to them & heard the poppoppop of machine guns.  They were firing belts of tracer & then several ordinary bullets at them.  The one in the bottom left of the triangle began to fall quicker & little pieces began to fall off it.  It went out soon after.  The other 2 gradually fell behind the houses & all we could see was a glow in the sky.  The raid was fairly noisy after.

Bert came in & I beat him at chess.  Ern came in & said he had seen 3 more flares and Dad later saw another 3 making 10 at least round this way.  Bert saw the staff manager at his place today and I am going up with him on Monday to see about a job.

Saturday 30^th November 1940

AC 1.55am.  Went to library in morning, got “Gibbons World Stamps Catalogue 1941”.  Went with Bert to Boardman’s where he used to work, in the afternoon after the raid which lasted from 1.30 to 2.30pm.  All quiet.  There had been a previous raid at 10.5 to 11.2am.  All quiet.  We went to Boardman’s for Bert’s pen which was being mended but it wasn’t ready so they are sending it round.  We bought 4 pieces of music “All over the Place” “I’m Nobody’s Baby” “Sing while you Work” & “Peter Maurice 8^th selection”.

When I got home I found a letter saying my book-keeping certificate was at West Ham Technical College & I could call for it & also a card from the City Libraries asking for their books.  Alarm at 10.50 till 11.22.  Plane came over as siren went.  Guns fired all quiet after.

Sunday 1^st December 1940

At 12.28am we had another ARW till 12.50 & it was identical to the last raid.  Up 11 ARW 10.23 to 10.40 all quiet.  Same 11.18 to 11.58.  same 3.12pm to 3.29pm.  At 7.7 another ARW went.  As the siren went a plane was over head & the guns were firing.  As the siren died away there was a terrific bang.  I thought was a gun but it was actually a bomb at Bow.  Quiet after.  AC 7.44.  I went in Bert’s for a while then we came in my place.  We all played on the pin table for some time.  Another alarm 9.40 to 12.25 am. The planes were soon over after the alarm and at short intervals.  Heavy gunfire.  Bed 11.30.

Monday 2^nd December 1940

Up 7.  Went out with Bert at 7.45, after a terrible bus journey got to his place.  He took me to the reception room & stopped with me till the girl came.  I waited about ¾ hour before I saw Mr Adams the staff manager & it was arranged that as I said I wouldn’t go if the firm evacuated that if on Wednesday when he would definitely know about evacuation it was decided to go I wouldn’t get a job but if they weren’t going I would get a job.  Bert would bring me a message.  Home 11.15

Bert came in in the evening & we catalogued some music.  We didn’t hear one ARW today although we had the AC at 12.25am – the first time since Aug 29^th 85 days . Bed 12.15.

Tuesday 3^rd December 1940

Up 9.  In morning went up to Coates & the City Library.  I had a bit of trouble at the library.  ARW while I was in Coates at 11.15am.  We had previous alarm 8.15 to 8.38am all quiet.  I came during alert.  Guns in distance twice.  AC 12. Another alarm 12.16 to 12.30 guns in distance once.  ARW 1.50 to 2.33.  Heard 1 or 2 planes & machine gunfire.  Went to library got “My Most Thrilling Story” & “Pearson’s Mag Vol 79”. Night alarm 5.58pm.  Bert came in at 6.15.  we all played dominoes.  The raid was fairly noisy.  A couple of bombs were dropped.  AC went not long ago at 11.35.

Wednesday 4^th December 1940

Up 11.  The bombs last night fell at the Princess Alice.  Stopped in all day.  When I saw Bert he said that Adams hadn’t said anything today about me.  He came in after the raid began at 6.24.  we saw a fire in the direction of Forest Gate.  They had dropped some more bombs at the Princess Alice again.  We all played cards.  Bert went in about 10.15.  AC heard in distance about 11.40.  Our AC went at 11.53pm.  The raid was quiet after 10pm.  Bed 12.30

Thursday 5^th December 1940

Up 11.30.  Joyce had just called. She has had trouble at home & has come to live at Lily’s place & this afternoon she & Lily are going to Stratford to get permission for her & Albert to get married.  In the afternoon Dad & I went for a walk.  Just before we went out we had an ARW from 1.52 pm to 2.8pm.  All quiet.  Sometime after we had got back Lily & Joyce called.  They went to Stratford & got a form Joyce’s parents have to sign.

After tea Bert came in ARW 6.31pm.  About 7 Walter & Doris called for the evening.  They brought their dog Bruce with them, he’s only 12 weeks old.  He’s the image of Dinah.  I wonder what did happen to Dinah & her pup.  Walter borrowed 20 pieces of my music.  We all played cards & it was more like a party than an air raid.  We heard very little during the raid & the AC went at 10.5pm.  Walter & Doris left about 10.50 & at 10.58 another alarm went till 11.56.  It was quiet mostly.  Bed 12.30.

Friday 6^th December 1940

Up 9.15.  messed about in morning in afternoon I mended the pin table – put new pins in etc.  Uncle Albert called.  Bert came in about 7.30.  ARW 7.38.  We all played cards & pintable.  AC 9.15.  the raid was very quiet – only a few guns in the distance.  I expect the wind was too much for them.  Bed 12.30.

Saturday 7^th December 1940

Up 9.15.  in the afternoon Bert & I went to the Granada & saw “ You ain’t so Tough” & “The Boys from Syracuse” & “Neighbours under Fire”. Bert came in in the evening.  No raid. Bed 12.30.

Sunday 8^th December 1940

Up 9.45. – because I had to go & get the paper.  Bert came in in the afternoon.  Joyce brought the rent over.  While she was here she said that Albert had written to her & said his firm Guedalla’s^IV had written asking him if he knew of a lad 15 to 18 for their office so he thought I might like to go up.  I’m going up tomorrow.  Bert came in in the evening & we all played Crown & Anchor.^V  ARW 5.33 pm.  Planes over soon after.  There was a break between 8 & 9.30 but after that we never ceased to hear planes.  As one began to fade away another one began to get nearer.  We heard several bombs drop & the gunfire was terrific.  We didn’t go to bed till 2.30am.  AC 7.14am. 

Monday 9^th December 1940

Up 8.15.  I left for Guedalla’s at 9.15 but I didn’t get a bus till nearly 10.  I arrived about 11 & had to wait 15 mins or so before Miss Joseph came in.  She’s very nice & I started right away.  I don’t know yet whether or not I like it.  Miss Riley the typist is jolly decent & said I was to be careful of Mr Bratt as he likes to take the rise but if you just do as he says he stops it because you don’t get wild at him.  Hours are 9.30 to 4.30 since the raids, but before they were 10 to 5.30 I think.  I left at 4.40. home 5.30.  Bert came in later on.  Bed 12.15.

Tuesday 10^th December 1940

Up 7.40, left house 8.10.  Got at the office at 9.15 & had to wait about 15 mins before the commissionaire came & unlocked the door for me.  Miss Bailey said that she forgot to tell me to take the key down with me of a night.  Miss Joseph wrote Albert a letter & while dictating it I heard Miss Joseph say that I would probably stay at the office & be trained as a law clerk.  We were busy in the afternoon & I didn’t finish till nearly 5.  Home about 6.  Bert came in later on.  Dad had got Mrs Lloyd a job at Woodmansee’s doing scrubbing.  Bed 11.45.

Wednesday 11^th December 1940

ARW at 6.0am.  first for almost 48 hrs.  AC 6.25am.  All quiet. Up 7.45.

Home from work 5.45.  Bert came in ARW 6.0pm.  fairly noisy at times.

Bed 11.45

Thursday 12^th December 1940

AC 7.55am.

Up 8.  ARW 11.9 till 11.24am.  All quiet.  ARW 11.57 to 12.19 whistles blew.  Bomb was heard dropped at home.  Home 5.30 ARW 6.20pm, the raid was very noisy at times.

Friday 13^th December 1940

AC 4.45am.  We get paid in the mornings here. I have to pay 1.4d leaving £1.3.8d.

Home 5.30.  ARW 6.5pm to 7.24 pm.  Very quiet.  Bert came in.

Saturday 14^th December 1940

Finished 12.30.  Saw Bert in the Broadway.  He had had the morning off & had bought a present for Joyce so I am looking after it so that Joyce won’t know what she will get.  I had my haircut.  Bert & I played in the front room for some time.  A week away from the piano makes a lot of difference. To me.  Bert brought Joyce a gun that shoots pictures on the wall.  ARW 6.5pm to 7.24pm. very quiet. Bed 12.

Sunday 15^th December 1940

Albert Ovens woke us up at 11.  He’s got 3 weeks leave.  His boat had a collision & has to be repaired. He’s got another fortnight after that to come.  Bert came in during the afternoon.  Walter called.  He came in while we were playing & Bert Walter Ern & I were playing & singing together for some time.  He’s going to lend us some music.    In the evening they had a little celebration at Aunt Lily’s & Ern went over there, I went in Bert’s.  ARW at 6.50 till 10.21pm.  Noisy at times.  Ern came in just after the AC.  At 11 a plane went over & the AA guns opened up.  No ARW went.  Bed 12. Ern game me one of his harmonicas.

Monday 16^th December 1940

Albert called at the office today.  One of the old typists Miss Seymour & Mr Spyer called as well.  Home 5.45pm.  Ern’s pal Bob was there but as Ern didn’t come along he left without seeing him.  Bert came in.  Guns fired at 9.15 to 9.30.  At 9.52 ARW till 10pm.  All quiet.  ARW 10.21 to 10.33pm all quiet. Bed 11.40

Beat Bert at Chess. 

Tuesday 17^th December 1940

I had to go to Park Crescent today.  I took some papers up.  I only went in the hall so I don’t know what the rest of it is like.  I went to Francis Day & Hunters in Charring X Rd.  Bought “Ferry Boat Serenade” & I got myself a Flageolet – commonly known as a tin whistle.  

Gray came in the morning & he & I were talking & I asked him if he knew any music shops & it turned out he is in a band.  He gave me a lot of tips & he is going to lend me some music already arranged for band parts.  He gets them from a club the band belongs to.  

Home 5.45.

Bert came in.  Ern, Bert & I all had some instruments – mouth organs & my Flageolet & did we make a row.

Bed 11.50

Wednesday 18^th December 1940

Up 8.00.  Terribly foggy.  I was late starting & at Aldgate we all had to wait about 10 minutes for another 15 bus as ours – a “foreigner” had something wrong with it.

When Gray came he had some music to lend me.  He had

“Basin St Blues”^VI, “Tiger Rag”^VII, “Dark town Strutters Ball”^VIII “ Song of India”^IX “I can’t give you anything but love baby”^X, “I’m getting Sentimental Over you”.^XI 

Went to D&H’s in lunch hour got “O-hi O” and “I’m Stepping out with a Memory tonight & “Camp fire : Fire Side Song Book”.

Bert came in & spent about 3 hours practising our music.  Bed 12.

Thursday 19^th December 1940

Up 8.15.

Mr Bratt took me to the Courts today.  We went to Appeal Court 2.  The case was Grand Buildings V Charing X News Theatre.  But as we had signed terms the case only lasted about 5 mins.  It seemed more like a church, when I first went in, than anything else.  The awful solemnity & husked voices are very awe inspiring at first.  When a bell rang there was a terrific scurrying about of bewigged counsels & we went in the courtroom – they are much smaller than I thought they were, incidentally.

The judges & counsels looked very dignified in their robes & wigs.  Everybody had to rise when the judges did so. The courtrooms are lovely rooms & behind the judge was a carved lion & unicorn.  Jolly fine too.

The Law Courts are extremely easy to get lost in I should think.  But when I left Bratt I found my way out without mistake.

Bert came in.  We got out a box of things we had left from last Xmas – hats, faces etc & Bert Mum & I all put on a hat and a face & Bert & I took an empty wine bottle each & Mum got Tiny & put a little hat on him & we all went in Bert’s house.  We scared Joyce & Ivy at first but it was the funniest thing.  I had seen for ages.  Soon after this I had a terrific nosebleed for about ½ an hour.  Bed 12.45.

Mum saw Hilda today.  Hilda said that the music shop John & Eva had was bombed on the Wednesday after they left on the Sunday.  I’m glad they were out of it. Hilda may be coming round home Xmas.  I hope she does.  We will have some fun then.

ARW 6.33pm 9.18pm.  a few planes heard.  Some gunfire.

Book 20

Friday 20^th December 1940   

Walter & Doris called in the evening.  Bert was in with us.  ARW 5.55pm 2.40am.  Fairly noisy.  

Doris is going to have a baby.  Both Bert & I saw that soon after she came in.  I recon it’ll be about 7 months yet.  I wonder what being an uncles’ like.

Saturday 21^st December 1940

Vic came home on leave today.  He came over and saw us soon after I got in from work.  I was late because I had gone to Coates for Dad.  I went out & got in some drinks for Xmas.  Then Bert & I went over to Stratford.  As we went an ARW went 2.58 to 3.12 all quiet.  I called in the library & got Ern’s ticket.  I got him “It Walks by Night”.  I got myself  ”Stamp Magazine” & “English Short Stories of Today”.  Over Stratford Bert bought some presents.  I bought a big Xmas cracker with a dozen novelties in it & a card game called “Rush Hour”.  Also bought “All the things you are” & “I’m Spending Xmas with the old Folks”.  Bert came in in the evening.  ARW at 5.56 till 2.50 fairly noisy.

Sunday 22^nd December 1940

Albert called over in the morning.  Aunt Maud came over during the afternoon.  Walter & Doris called in the evening.  They are coming over on Boxing Day.  

ARW 5.55 till 12.45am.  Fairly noisy.  Couple of quiet spells.

Monday 23^rd December 1940

ARW 2.50 to 4.50am. up 8.  Bert came in in the evening. Guns at 6 pm.  ARW at 6.20 till 1.40am. Noisy at times but there were 2 long quiet spells.  Bed 11.40.  Albert came to the office in the afternoon.

Tuesday 24^th December 1940

Miss Bailey left about 2pm. I left at 4.30.

Bought “If I only had Wings” Bert came in in the evening. Bed. 11.45

Wednesday 25^th December 1940 Xmas Day

Up 10.  Mum, Dad & I were all dashing about getting the front room cleared.  Bert gave me some cufflinks & I gave him a tie. We went to football and West Ham beat Arsenal 4-2 after being 2 down in about 15 minutes.  HT 2-2.  West Ham had a Leeds player a little chap – bald and he was good.  And Chapman the 17 year old boy made rings round Hopgood in the second half.  Our 3^rd goal was cheated. A West Hammer & the Arsenal goalie were lying side by side on the goal line & the hammer flicked the ball with his hand & kicked it into the net.  There was an Arsenal supporter near us & I thought we were going to have a fight with him.  When the whistle blew for time he walked off with a towerry expression on his face.  When I got home I went & got some beer & lemonade.  

Bert came in after dinner.  Freddie called round & I gave him his tie.  Ern went out in the evening.  As there was only Mum Dad I & Bert there.  We got out the faces & hats and Bert & I dressed up in them & went over to Aunt Lily’s.  Doris answered the door & I said “Good Evening” “I’m from the Prudential” & walked in followed by Bert.  Doris was saying “Wil- Wil who am I letting in” Bert & I just opened the front room door & marched in.  It took them all by surprise.  Then Bert & I went over to Stan’s house as his mother & Joyce & Ivy were there.  They said I looked like an undertaker.  With my services mask on & a bowler hat the wrong way round, lady’s raincoat & umbrella with an empty beer bottle.

We played cards & had some music after.  Bert went in about 12.  Ern came in just before. Bed 12.15.

Thursday 26^th December 1940 Boxing Day

Up 10.  After dinner Bert came in.  Walter & Doris arrived about 3.  Ern borrowed Vic’s mike & fixed it up & we did some broadcasting.  At tea there were Mum Dad Walter Doris Ern myself & Bert.  As usual when Walter is present it was one long laugh.  Before tea Mum & Doris went round to Russel Rd school where Hilda was entertaining at a concert for the troops.  They saw Hilda & she said she would come round and when she came at last she had a soldier with her.  His name was Cyril and he came from Lancashire & he gave Stanley Holloway monologue “Albert & the Lion”.  Very funny too.  Ern & I went over for Lily & then about 7 they were nearly ready when we went there.  There were Mum Dad Ern Bert Walter Doris Aunt Lily Albert Leslie Joyce Doris Hilda Cyril- 14 of us. We had a jolly fine time & poor old Bert seems to have fallen for Doris.  I don’t blame him, if I didn’t know Doris Stainsby & Doris wasn’t Leslie’s girl I would fall for her.

We spent most of the time singing but we played a few games. It was one of the best parties we’ve had.  I’m glad the Jerries kept off.  Walter Doris & Hilda went about 11.45,  the soldier had to go much earlier.  The others went about 12.40.  Bed 1.30

Friday 27^th December 1940

Work again – blast it.  Albert came up to the office.  Home 5.50.  ARW 6.39 to 10.43pm.  We didn’t get anything except guns firing but we saw a fire over towards the docks.  The AC was very sudden planes had been over just a few minutes before.  Maybe we keep a watch on their aerodromes.  Bed 12.15.  Bert came in with us during the evening.  Dad gave me 30/- to put in the bank.

Saturday 28^th December 1940

We all overslept & got up at 8.50.  I was out by 9.5 got to work in about 45 minutes.  First in.  Gray Miss Bailey & I were talking about last night’s raid.  Gray didn’t get anything dropped in his district but Miss Bailey had 2 aerial torpes come down near her besides many bombs – fire & HES.  They set Aspinall’s paint place alight which was the fire we saw last night.  Went up library & got “Vampire of N’gobe” Ridgwell Cullum . “Island of Surprises”  Edgar Wallace the book I got for Ern.  Bert came in in the evening.

Sunday 29^th December 1940

Up 12.  Hilda came in the afternoon & borrowed 32 pieces of music for a concert at Credon Rd School Tuesday night.  She asked mum dad & I to come.

ARW 6.9pm.  Bert came in soon after.  The Jerries came over soon after the alarm & we had a good bit of excitement.  A good few bombs were dropped.  Balaam St Manuel centre & the caretakers house were gutted & there were fires in the city & towards Stratford.  The smell was just like when the Blitz began.  A terrible smell of cordite & burnt paper.  It quietened after 10.30 & we had an AC at 11.43pm.

Monday 30^th December 1940

Up 8.  Heard several planes going over & mum said she heard an explosion.  There was still a terrific smell of burnt stuff everywhere.  When I went to the Greengate I found that no buses were going past Aldgate & when I got on one it took us all round Stratford.  I heard the conductor talking to some of the passengers, he said 6 time bombs were between Greengate & Blackwell Tunnel.

We came out on to the East India Dock Rd by the tunnel & we went along nearly to Aldgate & then we went round some back streets.  In Royal Mint St we saw the first of the damage.  We had to get out outside the LNER goods depot after going along over hosepipes & debris for some time.  The goods depot – or what was left of it was still burning furiously & the firemen were still playing on the flames.  Past the depot everything was in ruins all along by the tower & at the bottom of the Minories.  It was just as if the buildings had been hit by a giant hand & laid flat.  The little shops were still burning but they were paying no attention to them.  Mazawattees place was gutted & as we went up Seething Lane there was a place still burning & the firemen couldn’t get enough water pressure to deal with it properly.  I had to walk to work from Aldgate & all the way along there were fires burning.  All round St Pauls the buildings were gutted & though they were leaning over they had not been roped off.  All around were huge lumps of masonry etc.  in Ludgate Hill there was a shop still burning & in Fleet St, St Brides – a Wren church was a ruin & further on there was a shop still alight.  It was a 2^nd great fire but it extended further than the first.  I finally got to work at 10.45.  Gray was there.  Miss Bailey didn’t come in.  She rang up to say she wasn’t well. 

I got on alright by myself.  I had to go home by train to Mansion House & the walk to Aldgate & catch a bus to Plaistow.  Bert had much the same tale as I did.

Tuesday 31^st December 1940

I got to work, bus to Aldgate – train Mansion Hse to Charing X.  Home same way except it was reversed.  Coming home I saw that a whole block almost beginning at Old Jewry up to Barham & Mo, & a good way down old Jewry was gutted.  That’s why there is no city bus service  – it’s dangerous.  I can’t see why they don’t run buses down Houndsditch, Bishopsgate and Threadneedle St & back to the usual route.  It’s possible.  

The Guildhall has gone but better that than human life.

I got 2 diaries today.  They are vastly different from our usual ones and at 7d but I think they’ll do.  Bert wanted one when he saw them.  

About 7 Bert Dad Mum & I went round to Credon Rd schools to the party Hilda invited us to.  Ern came later.  We had a jolly good time.  Florrie’s sister Peggy was there – boy oh boy can she kiss.  At midnight when we sang Auld Lang Syne she spotted me & what a kisser she is.  Everyone was very pally round there & it was just like a family party.  There was a good looking girl in green who was making eyes at Ern but nothing came of it.  About 11 a chap came with some drums but Bert soon had them.  Mum & Dad left about 1. Bert Ern & I came about 2.15. I had a couple of turns at the piano.  They had 2 whip rounds 2/- & 1/-.  There were easily over a 100 there but they certainly gave good value for money.

Willie came to see us tonight, he’s in the Fleet Air Arm & I think he’s on the same boat as Eric Buttle.

Wednesday 1^st January 1941

Up rather late.  Got to work by bus to Aldgate & train to Charring X. Came home train all the way.

ARW 8.14pm to 9.18pm heard nil.  Another 9.56pm till 1.45am.  Quiet till 12, fairly noisy after.  Got Bert a diary today.

Thursday 2^nd January 1941

ARW 5am to 7.45am guns hears sometimes. 

Got to work by bus to Aldgate, train rest of way & all way home.  Nothing much at work.  Bert came in in the evening.  ARW 6.58 to 11.43pm. noisy now and again. Bed 12.30.

Friday 3^rd January 1941

Got to work same way as yesterday.  At lunch I got “Riding on a Rainbow to Dreamland”.  Bert came in in the evening ARW 9.1 to 10.30pm fairly quiet.  Another raid 11.18 & 12.8.  Guns & planes heard.  I had “Melody Maker” delivered today.  We’re going to have it every week now.

Saturday 4^th January 1941

ARW 12.20am 4.0am. noisy at times.  While I was going to work I got “Blues Small” & “Swiss bell-Ringer” at Ebblewhites.  Home by train.

I suppose Miss Baily will come in Monday after her weeks absence.  On my way home I called at Rymans at the Strand & bought a box of stationary for 3/6d to make index cards for our music.  When I got home I went to Balsam St school & re-enrolled for school & saw Mr Richards.  He said if they can’t get enough pupils for Saturday & Sunday lessons they will be held Sunday mornings only.

Bert & I did some practising Bert came in in the evening & we started on our indexing of the music.  Walter & Doris came.  Bert went to the library for me & got a book on dancing by Victor Sylvester.  Bert got “There’ll Come Another Day”.

Sunday 5^th January 1941

ARW 1.18am to 7.36am noisy at times.  Up late ARW 2.44 to 3.26pm.  Had bath in afternoon.  Bert came in in evening & we did some more indexing.  Leslie came over with the rest & stayed for about an hour.  We lent him the book on dancing.  ARW 7.3 to 11.26pm.  First heard guns at 6.45. Fairly noisy till 10 quiet after.  The daylight raid was the first one for a long while.  Uncle Albert called this morning.

Monday 6^th January 1941

Heavy snowfall during night.  Frozen when I went out.  Just before I caught a bus siren went.  Time 8.55.  AC 9.14am.  guns etc.  Bus Aldgate train to Charing X.  Miss Baily came in today.  ARW 10.7 to 10.52 pm.  Quiet in city.  Bombs dropped on Burgoyne’s chemical place in East Ham.  At 2.30 planes & guns were heard at home & the Hight St balloon was shot down.  ARW 3.21 to 3.50pm.  Bombs dropped in East London Cemetery.  Quiet in city.  Home by train.  Bert came in & we did some more indexing.  Bed 12.30.

Tuesday 7^th January 1941

Up 8am.  Went to work by train as it was so slippery.  Good job I did too for it took an hour to get over the bridge & Bert didn’t get to work till 10.  ARW at 12.55 till 4.20pm – one of our longest daylight raids. The warning bells & whistle went several times at work and then the guns would start.  It was fairly bad at home.  Home 5.40.  Bert came in & we did some more indexing bed 11.30.

Wednesday 8^th January 1941

Up 8.15.  went to work by train.  Had to type out a very juicy bit about 2 people being together etc. – very tasty – very sweet.  Even as I am writing this Joseph & Bratt are arguing about some kid whose lawful & yet a bastard —- a lawyer’s job is very tasty at times. 

As I was going to the station this morning I saw Freddy.  Bert came in in the evening.

Thursday 9^th January 1941

I spoke to Alistair Sim today.  I was just coming in the building & he was just going out & he kept the door open for me & I said “Thanks”.  I had a second look at him & I realized who he was.  The porter said he often come here to see one of his friends on the first floor.

I had to go to a place in the Temple today where I had not been before – paper buildings – there right round the back, and the damage round there is the worst I reckon that nearly a dozen bombs have dropped in the Temple.

Bert came in in the evening.  ARW 7.13 pm 2.10am guns before alarm.  About 10 we heard a plane going to the east very low with only one engine going.  I bet he was winged by our A.A.  After 11 the raid was very noisy.

Friday 10^th January 1941

The “Melody Maker” wasn’t left till 11 so I didn’t see it till I got home from work.  Bert came in during the evening.  I got home from work before it was dark & I was able to play the piano for a while.

Saturday 11^th January 1941

I had to go to Park Crescent today.  I told them at work I was going to school this afternoon & I got off at 12.45pm.  

I saw Bert & he said he would come & do Manual there before we went we jazzed for a while.  When we got there was no teacher there so we just sat & talked.  We met Lennie Donovan up there – he was doing woodwork like Bert.  He said he could play the xylophone so he is going to come & play with us on Sunday afternoon.  Bert & he had a lesson but I only get lessons on Sunday morning from 10 till 12.  While Bert & Len had their lesson I got my haircut.  Bert & I went to the library I got “Mulliner Nights” Wodehouse.  “The Plains of Cement” P. Hamilton^XII & “Bottles in the Smoke” Hankey. 

I told Bert I would be bathing tonight but as it happened there was a raid from 6.20 to 9.50 & didn’t bath till after then.  The raid was fairly noisy at times.  Saw some fires in the city.  We didn’t hear the AC as we were listening to Vic Oliver & Sarah Churchill in Star Time.  Vic played the piano & the Violin – he’s jolly good too.  He & Sarah acted a bit from Idiots Delight.  They were in the play but I saw the film with Clark Gable in it.

Sunday 12^th January 1941

Up 9.15.  there were 8 of us at Book-keeping.  It’s surprising how much I have forgotten.  There is only 1 girl in the class so far but she is older than me.  She’s making eyes at me thought.  Afterwards Bert & I went to see a chap he knows – the one he got the drum off – but he was out. In the afternoon Len came home he brought his xylophone & mandolin. It sounds jolly good with piano drums & xylophone.  I can play his xylophone but I broke one of his sticks.  Still it’s his own fault really.  He always uses the same stick in the same hand & he cut notches in them to distinguish between them & I had the left hand one in my right hand & while running up the keys it broke.

We had an alarm at 6.31 & soon after the boys knocked at the door & told us to get out the pump & sand as they were dropping hundreds of incendiary bombs.  There was already a fire not very far away.  Bert came out later & there was Ern Bert myself Toot Powder Len Moody & a couple of other chaps out there.  We stopped there till about 9.  During that time the fire got bigger & ever so many HE’s were dropped and at times there were so many incendiaries being dropped that as they caught they lit the place almost like day.

When the raid began the clouds were low & that intensified the blaze & made it seem much worse & when bombs were dropped all you heard was a very short whistle after they pierced the clouds & then the explosion.  Later when the clouds had shifted we heard a bomb drop while we were all in the road looking at the fire.  We all dashed to get cover & as it exploded just past the Greengate where the fire was. Lenny Moody called out “Ha! Fooled you that time I didn’t stop there” & it sounded so funny we all burst out laughing.  At times the shrapnel fell like rain all along the road.  About 9.15 it quietened considerably. About 10.15 mum & I went out the front & stood talking to Mr Newman for some time.  We heard a couple of planes.  AC 10.53.

Monday 13^th January 1941

Freddie & Bill called this evening & Bert & I were talking to them for a long while.  They had 4 bombs in their street last night but they were soon extinguished by all the people. 

I spent the rest of the evening making a copy of my own arrangement of “In the Mood” for Gray.  I told him about it today & he asked me if I could make a copy for him.  I also lent him 14 pieces of music.

Tuesday 14^th January 1941

I was able to go all the way to work & home again by bus today although we had to go round Cannon Street because of the damage at the bank.  I reckon there are 2 or 3 hundred people buried there.  They did that Saturday night.  They also finished the Guildhall & bombed Dirty Dicks on Saturday.  I did some Book-keeping in the evening.

Wednesday 15^th January 1941

Mr Spyer rang up today & said he is coming in tomorrow as he is on leave.  Bert came in this evening & I did some Book-keeping.

At 11.30pm the guns fired on a plane & again at 11.45.  At 11.55 the ARW went and another plane came over each time the guns fired I heard what I thought was a ships hooter but it turned out to be a factory warning hooter.  I’m getting on alright with that flageolet.  I got a tutor for it at Ebblewhites on Monday & now I can play a lot of tunes – slowly but I can do it.  I went to bed about 12.30 the raid was noisy a few times AC 2.5am.

Thursday 16^th January 1941

ARW 4.5 am to 5.58am. the raid was very noisy at the beginning but it gradually quietened .  Gray said that his band have got an orchestration of In the Mood & he says the ending is just like the one I gave to him.  ARW 7.43 to 9.21pm

Heard nothing.

Another alarm 10.22 till 1.45am.  fairly noisy at times.

Friday 17^th January 1941

Gray forgot to bring my music – the twerp.  

Bert & I went to see Bennie & we all decided to go to the Carlton tomorrow evening.  We stopped in Lennie’s house for some time.

Saturday 18^th January 1941

Thick carpet of snow everywhere when I got up & it was still falling. There had been an alarm from 1.50 to 3.45am but it was quiet.

I had to go to Park Crescent.

It was still snowing & in the back garden it was about 6 inches deep so I began to clear it away, while I was doing this I heard some bangs but it was not till the ARW went I realised what the bangs were – guns.  Today of all days I did not expect a raid.  I thought it would be much too cold.  The ARW went 3.12pm & lasted till 4.2pm.  After the siren went we heard a few guns but nothing much.  I went to the library & got “Streets of London” Thomas Burke & “Under London” by F.L. Stevens.  About 5 Bert Len & I went to the Carlton we saw –  

“Crime does not pay – Soaking the Old”

“The Passing Parade – The Hidden Master”

“The Inferior Feeling“ & Mickey Rooney & Judy Garland – what a dame in “Strike up the Band” – what a film.  Micky Rooney does some smashing drumming & Judy Garland – Wow!.  I bet Micky & Judy get married sooner or later.

We got home about 9.30 on our way home we met a couple of girls & if Bert had started throwing snowballs at them it might have come to something.

Sunday 19^th January 1941

We had cups of tea at 11 while we were at night-school.  After school we went round to Arthur Thompsons place about his drum but he wasn’t in.  So we knocked next door & asked the woman to tell him we would call back tonight.  In the afternoon Hilda called we got her to play the piano & she said that on Feb 8^th the Wardens are having a dance & she wants us to go there.  

We called round Arthurs again in the evening but still no one in.  As we were going through Grange Rd on our way home the ARW went, we quickened our pace & while we were going through Balaam St 2 planes came over.  As we turned into Tweedmouth Rd an Incendiary was dropped over East Ham – there was a terrific white glare for a fraction of a second & then a red glow & then it died down.  As it died down then Jerry dropped a bomb, we all got close to the wall as we weren’t going to lay down in all the mush & slush of the snow.  The bomb fell over towards the docks & it was a very big one.  The ground shook & trembled under us.  Lennie came down to collect his Xylophone & while he was here I gave him a list of some of our tunes.  

The ARW went at 7.10pm after the alarm there was a little bit of noise & then it would be quiet for a long period & then a little noisy for a very short time.  AC 2.15am.  Dad found out yesterday that if you only earn up to 25/- & are between 16 and 18 you can get ½ rate season tickets so I’m getting one.

Monday 20^th January 1941

There was still plenty of snow about & it even snowed some more.

I went up Plaistow Station in the evening with the competed form.  Miss Joseph had to sign it to certify I was only getting 25/- per week.  It will be 14/3d a month & will save 3/-a week on average.

I did some book-keeping & then Bert Len & I went round to Arthurs again. This time we found him in – but over the road at his father-in-law’s place.  He was all by himself.  After we had been there for some time he took us over the road to his own place to show us the drum.  It’s a beauty 28” x 15” & it’s hardly marked & it’s got a trap door & spurs attached a good case & a large strap Arthur bought later.  He wants £4. 10/- for the lot.  4/- for a 25/- beater & he said his got a small cowbell we can have for a 1/-.  £4.16/- the lot & we mean to raise it before Feb 8^th.

I’m going to ask Dad for a loan. I spoke about the drum & praised it up when we got back & I hope to talk about the loan tomorrow. 

Tuesday 21^st January 1941

It’s nice to go to work by train. The times I go, hardly anyone is travelling & it is much more comfortable as well as much faster than the buses are.  We had an ARW 10.36am & 10.57am all quiet.

Another at 1.17pm – Did hear one at app. 1.10pm in the distance.  There was heavy gunfire at home during this alarm but I didn’t hear anything.  AC 2.5pm the 3^rd alarm of the day was between3.30pm & 4.20pm:  all quiet.

Did some book-keeping during evening.  Bert came in.

Wednesday 22^nd January 1940

I had to go to Euston Rd Town Hall for a Death Certificate today.  Talk about lost in the wilds I got what I wanted eventually however.  

Walter & Doris came in the evening.  It won’t be long now before I’m an uncle.  Then the pop song (with words reversed thus “I’m his uncle, he’s my nephew I’m as proud as proud can be (at least that’s if it’s a boy, I hope it is.) will be very appropriate.  Doris wants a new dress & she wants Miss Parker to make it.  Walter said “tell her to allow for expansion” and then he said “I’ve had to cut a lump from the table so she can sit close to it.”  Bert & I nearly burst trying not to laugh.  Walter would make fun of anything.

When he had an accident on his motor bike about 10 years or so ago.  The first words he said when Dad saw him in hospital were “It was near a cemetery anyway”.

When they left Bert & I sorted our music into 3 groups, Popular, fairly popular & others.  Then we subdivided them into Waltzes Fox trots & quickstep etc.

Mum had been over to Aunt Lily’s & we were talking about the 2 Dorrises & Bert says “Don knows a Doris too” & goes on taking the rise out of me.  But then Mum said “That girl you used to go up to the school with is back home again, I’ve seen her once or twice”.  Boy oh boy I nearly jumped for joy.  I went to bed a bit earlier so as to get up earlier & then I may see her as I go out.

Thursday 23^rd January 1941

Up 8.20.  I went out about 5 to 9 but I didn’t see Doris.

Mum & Dad went to see “Aladdin” at the Coliseum.  I would rather have been with them than at work.  I did nothing but dash from one place to another.   My petty expenses totalled over 14/-.  

We had an alarm in the morning from 10.32am to 10.50am. All quiet. The ARW went as I passed the Lyons tea shop on the corner of Dun Cannon St (Duncannon Street) & Strand & the A.C. went as I passed it on my way back from the Stamping office at Bush House, Coincidence!.

When I got home Dad gave me a letter that had come from Hilda.  2 little children brought it round & they said it had better be opened in case there was an answer. The letter was asking if me Bert & Len could go to a dance at Credon Rd school on Sunday at 2.30.  She wants Ern to go as well. The letter was authentic “Jack Warner” style.

I fixed up the blackout in the front room & Bert Len & I had a jam session.  We’re getting hot now, but I wish I started the piano earlier.  I’m the weak link of the trio.  For over a year before I started to learn I asked Dad to let me start.  If I had begun a year earlier it would have made a world of difference to my playing.  The sooner Miss Elson comes back the better because then I can ask her to improve my left hand technique.  I’ve got a lot of good ideas but I can’t put them into practice or if I do I have to modify them first.

Friday 24^th January 1941

Gray has got another job now. They wanted him to start immediately but he said he couldn’t.  If he leaves tomorrow they’re bound to want someone at Park Crescent & I shall fall in for that, but if I’m to go there I shall want a rise because of the extra fares & I’m not stopping till 7 at night.  I don’t care who old Guedalla is & how terrifying he is I shall tell him so & if I do have to stop late I’m getting another job.^XIII  There’s plenty of young chaps wanted now.  Brackstone is leaving as well & he was going to reorganise the filing system at Park Crescent.  If he leaves the files in a hopeless muddle & I go there what do they expect me to do.  I also have an idea that Miss McClean is leaving.  They will be in a state if all 3 go because the other girls haven’t been there more than a couple of weeks.  Still I’ve got to wait & see what happens.  But I’m not going to be messed about.

Doris called this afternoon for Miss Parker to measure her for her dress & I saw as I came down Tweedmouth Rd & as she was going to get a bus.  I didn’t recognise her & when she said good-night I wondered who it was but I turned round & then recognised her.  I think that when Walter came over Wednesday she had a lot of extra clothes on because when I saw her tonight you could hardly tell she was going to have a baby.

I saw Bert & we found he could get £1.11/- tonight so I asked Dad if he would lend us £3.5/- but he said no.  I don’t really blame him either.  Bert said if he didn’t have the Bass drum it wouldn’t be any good going to the dance Sunday so he & I went to see Hilda & tell her.  We saw her Father-in-law & he said she had gone to bed with a cold.  So we went home.  When we got in we played all our mournful tunes – blues etc because we hadn’t been able to get the drum, still it has only put us back a couple of weeks & that’s not much.

Saturday 25^th January 1941

Terrible morning at work dashing about from one place to another all the time.  I didn’t leave till 1.20.  Miss Ashton, one of the old typists came in – nice dame – she asked after Albert. I’ll have to mention that when I see Aunt Lily so she can tell Albert when she writes to him.  Last Thursday I went to Coates on my way home to get some Port for Dad.  I tried again today but they were shut again.  I’ll have to ring them up on Monday.

When I got home I saw Hilda round the shop she still had a bad cold & she won’t be going Sunday either.  So maybe it’s for the best we didn’t get the drum.

In the afternoon I played the piano & then went up the library.  I got “Heart of a Goof” Wodehouse – I hope he writes a book while in the concentration camp.  I bet he will be the only man to write a book in a padded cell if he does.^XIV

Also got “Music Calling” Cyril Wynn & “Visible & Invisible in Pianoforte Technique” Tobias Matthay.^XV

When I got home from the library & I had a bath.

In the evening we went down Len’s house & stopped till 10 playing.  We jazzed up “Melody D’Amour” & it sounded swell.

Sunday 26^th January 1941

Up 9.15.  went to “Night” school.  Len & Bert came down for a swing session in the afternoon.  We swung some more of our tunes besides Melodie D’Amour.  Joyce & Doris brought the rent over.  Poor old Bert he’s’ right gone on Doris.  She is a smashing Dame thought.  I bet Bert wishes Doris was Leslie’s sister instead of his girl.  I wouldn’t mind her as a cousin though. Maybe she will be my cousin someday – by Marriage, because I think I wouldn’t lose my money if I bet that Les & Doris marry.

Bert & I went for a walk in the evening. Tonight was the 7^th night in succession we didn’t have a raid & if we don’t have a raid before 3 tomorrow afternoon we will have been a 100 hours without a raid.  – From 11am (app) on Thursday morning . Bed early.

Monday 27^th January 1941

Up 8.20. In the train I sat next to White who I used to work with at Evans.  Either he didn’t see me or saw me & didn’t recognise me or saw & recognised me & didn’t want to speak to me I don’t know but he didn’t take any notice & as I wasn’t particularly interested I didn’t take any notice either.  He got out at Blackfriars so maybe he’s on a paper now.

Gray is leaving Wednesday.

Bert came in for a little while in the evening. I did some book-keeping.

At 2.50 today our 100 hour of no raids & today was the 8^th no-blitz night – No-blitz oblige.

Tuesday 28^th January 1940

ARW at 10.58am till 11.24am.  448^th raid.  In the city I heard nothing but at home some guns were heard.

This raid ended our spell of peace after 120 hours 8 mins or 5 days 0 hrs 8 mins.  Raid 449 at 12.32pm till 12.55pm.  quiet in city noisy at home. 4.50 at 1.16till 1.49. few guns at home, nothing in city

451 raid between 2.9pm & 4.2pm.  At home there was fairly heavy gunfire but in the City it was terrific.  There were small guns on the Admiralty Arch – I think they are Bofors^XVI & the big guns in Hyde Park it was terrific for minutes on end.  There were a few pause & then we would get more gunfire.  When I went down for tea the guns were terrific but no one was taking the least notice. 

We went up Len’s house & had a jam session.

Wednesday 29^th January 1941

ARW 9.35am till 9.54am.  I was on the train when the siren went & just got in the office when the AC went.

All quiet home & City.

We had no more day raids but just as I got in the siren went – 5.47.  Bert came in about 6.45 & we sat making a list of the amount we had each spend on music.  Ern was at the pictures the raid was quiet till 8.15 then planes began to come over about 8.25 we heard a thud that we thought was a time-bomb but I think it was a H.E. that fell in Butchers Road.  At 8.30 we heard a sound like a faint hissing & then pop pop -pop – poppoppop.  We knew what it was. – as I came along tonight I saw bags of sand in every gate & mum said there had been lorries round today bringing them.  Well when we heard the sounds Dad & Bert rushed out the back & I went out the front.

As I got to the gate I could see along the road a tremendous white glare with bits of flaming Magnesium flying about I yelled “they’re along the road” Bert dashed out & ran along with me & Dad followed with the stirrup pump. We ran down Southern Rd & there on the field was a line of incendiary bombs making the place like day.  If it had been peace time people would have said “isn’t it pretty” because it really is a sight to remember.  But we couldn’t stand & watch them so Bert & I grabbed a bag of sand & dashed in to the field. We were beaten by a short head to one bomb but the other chap didn’t put it right out so I up-ended our bag over it & that extinguished it.  All the bombs on the field were out in under 2 minutes & when the next jerry came over in about 3 minutes the only light to be seen was a little fire on a house over the other side of the field a small fire in Coats – they must have hit the tyres there because the smell of rubber was indescribable – & there was a bomb on the roof of a house in Perth Rd.  

But I think we would have copped it if the firebombs hadn’t been put out.  As it was I recon Fritz in the 2^nd plane thought Hans in the first plane hadn’t dropped his bombs to light up for him. 

When Bert Dad & I got back we found Mrs McGarry in with Mum.  Mr McGarry had dashed out & she was dead scared so Mum asked her in.  Bert went into see his people & tell them what had happened I thought he was a long time telling them & when he came in again he told us that Mr Clay had put a bucket of water just by the door & the fence & as he stepped through the door he put his foot clean in the bucket of icy water, he was soaked.  He had to change his socks & shoes & when he came in again he was wearing odd socks.  His trouser leg was soaked.  He didn’t half get his leg pulled over it. Ern asked him if he was trying to carry 3 buckets of water at once one in each hand & one on his foot & hop along to the bombs. 

Mrs McGarry stayed till the AC went at 9.45.  there wasn’t much doing after the bombs fell. Fancy Ern missing all the excitement & he is so keen on keeping a watch.

Thursday 30^th January 1941

ARW 9.23am 9.58am City all quiet Home some gunfire.

No 2 11.35am 12noon city quiet Home some gunfire.  Gray finished last night – he took my address & is going to let me know of any dates his band can’t do – so I had to go to Park Crescent as I was going the ARW went for the 3^rd time today 12.24 to 1.18.  Some gunfire at home.  I had to go to Piccadilly by bus because Trafalgar Square Station is shut during Air Raids. As I came out of Regents Park Station the ack ack was busy.  There wasn’t much firing though. 4^th alarm 1.32 to 5.50pm. the raid was noisy at times.

When I got home I had a look on the field but I couldn’t see any of the heaps of sand showing where the bombs fell.  Dad said that 1 bomb fell on the parapet of Woodmansee roof.  Mr Hunt put it out.A boy found 2 bombs that hadn’t ignited, on the field today.

We had band practice.

Book 21

Friday 31^st January 1941

We got the Bass Drum tonight.  Dad lent us 35/- I put 30/- Len 10/- & Bert 22/-

We got a Bass Drum £4.10.0

Cowbell         £0.01.0

Pedal       £0.05.0

Tom-Tom Holder     £0.01.0

Total             £4.17.0

We got it home & spent the rest of the time cleaning it.

Mrs Edmead heard us banging it & thought it was guns & stood in the passage. The x!xxx

There was a photo in the paper today of a black board outside a warden’s post thanking the firewatchers for their work Wednesday.  I bet its near us.  I felt rotten at work all day.

Today’s raids:

1. no 458 9.34am 9.42am all quiet.

2. no 459 11.17am  12.16pm city all quiet, Home guns occasionally

3. no 460 12.31pm 3.45pm noisy at times home & city

Saturday 1^st February 1941

I felt so bad I didn’t go to work. 

I went to Dr Kyndt, he said I had a bad cold too low down for gargling to be any use & he’s given me a tonic.  It’s not bad but it smells like smelling salts. I went round to see Hilda.  She said that they’ve got another band now but they are having a rehearsal tomorrow & she said we might as well go.  The news discouraged us all, after getting the drum specially for the occasion.  Still we’re going.  

I had a bath in the afternoon. In the evening we had a practice indoors.  We’re not bad now either. 

Sunday 2^nd February 1941

I didn’t feel too good when I got up but I went to school.

In the afternoon about 2.30 we all went round to the school.  The Head Warden Syd saw us & we told him who we were.  He hummed & hah-ed because he could see we had been promised the job & he didn’t want to turn either of us down.  In the end he asked Len & I to get our instruments & music but he didn’t want the drums as there was a fellow bringing his round.  As we were going this other chap turned up – Ron Pembry.  He only had 1 case with him & that was tiny compared to our Bass Drum.  When I asked him where his side drum was he said, “in the case”.  His Bass drum has only one side & all his kit was in it as well.  I tried to get Bert to come home with us, if he had, Len & I could have persuaded him to fetch his drums because they are much more suitable for a band than Ron’s are.  Anyway I took his sticks & brushes.

When we got back we found Ron’s drums set up – Bass drum side drum cymbal & top base stick & brushes & the brushes were the worst I’ve ever seen, all bent & twisted.  In the end Bert went home & got his Drums.  I played till Hilda came & then Hilda came & then she took over.  The band was – 2 pianist Hilda & I, 2 drummers Ron & Bert,  Xylophone – Len & piano Accordion – Ted. Ted’s a jolly nice chap & he’s got one of the best PA’s I’ve ever seen – & he can play it too.  There was a good few wardens’ there & we were all asked to go & do a dance, round at the children’s hospital in Balaam St, for the nurses.  One woman warden asked me if we charged much.  I nearly fainted.  When I told her we were just getting in some practice she said ”I see, but we’ll treat you alright”.

We’re having a rehearsal tomorrow night.  Syd wants us to do a dance round Credon Rd on Saturday & then there’s one more dance after that.  He said “of course, you can’t expect payment for the first couple but afterwards you’ll get something.”

When I got home Doris was there.  

We had a practice at Len’s after tea & gave us a couple of old books called “Rhythm”, there jolly good.  They’re incorporated in the MM now.

Dad was on Fire Watching duty from 5 to 7 tonight.  The picture in the papers of a blackboard thanking the people for their work was at Credon Rd Post.

(NB the newspaper cutting from the Daily Express 30.1.41 was folded and a rusty paperclip held it in the diary.  There is a very interesting article and a picture of the blackboard. )  See Below

Monday 3^rd February 1941

We still can’t get a boy for Park Crescent so I had to go up there again, as I was going at 12.15 the AA guns started firing at a lone plane.  But there was no ARW.

We went round to Credon Rd School about 7.  The band tonight was 2 drummers,  2 pianists, Xylophone squeezebox & a Banjo Player & he was hot too.  I wish I had been playing the piano for about another year, I should be just right for a band then.  But Hilda is much too good for a band.  She starts wandering off making up her own bits & throwing everyone else off & she plays tunes miles too fast.  We had to tell her of it several times.  I hope she tones down by Wednesday.  Just as we were packing up one of the wardens came over & said the yellow was up & about 3 minutes after he said the purple was up.^XVII  There was a short ARW about 10 minutes after we got in but we didn’t hear anything it was from 11.8 to 11.21pm.  Bert & I are going again tomorrow night & we are going to sort out a programme for Wednesday with Ted & Syd.

Tuesday 4^th February 1941

Up late.

I had to go twice to Park Crescent today a boy came in the afternoon.  I hope he starts tomorrow.  It will save me dashing about between Park Crescent & the office.

Just after he left Miss Joseph called me in & said that as all the chaps ask for 30/-, she thinks I should have it too & I shall start to as from Friday next drawing my increased salary.

I went to Credon Rd by myself as Bert has a cold & Len was finishing his xylo Stand.

Just as I got there the siren went time 7.1pm.  It was a bit noisy for a while.  Syd & I sorted out the music into five groups 1 Waltzes 2 Foxtrots 3 Slow Foxtrots 4 Quickstep 5 Tango, Rumbas, Polkas, Veleta^XVIII etc.   We’ve got a big, fine programme from Ted’s & my music, but Ted can’t turn up tomorrow as he is on night work & Hilda might not come. 

I went up & saw Len. He thinks he can finish his stand for tomorrow night.  I hope he does.  I saw Bert for a while.  

AC 11.1pm the raid was quiet after 9.30 & there wasn’t much before that really, except at the start.

Bed 12.

She was only a Town Clerks daughter but she wouldn’t let the Borough-Surveyor.

Wednesday 5^th February 1941

That new kid started today.  Name Woodford.  He’s only a very little younger than me but he seems very childish.  Still I hope he gets on alright at P.C.

Home 5.45

Bert Len & I got to the hospital just about 7.  As soon as we began playing they let up the people. They were nearly all girls but some more chaps came along later.  But even so us chaps were outnumbered.  Hilda, Ron, Mr Lamb – the Banjo player -, Syd & a lot of other chaps from Credon Rd.  Hilda played the piano a lot, but I did a good bit of playing.  I learnt the Palais Glide.  We had a jolly good time.  

For our first dance we got plenty to eat & drink, plenty of fun & 10 players^XIX each.  I sold mine to Ern for 6d.  On the other hand I spent 4d on 2 sweepstake tickets – the last 2 – for a cake so actual cash result was 2d.

They asked us if we could do a dance at another hospital but they didn’t know which so they will let Syd know tomorrow morning & he will call & see Len & then before we go tomorrow night we are going to see if Mr Lamb can come.  He lives at 25 Walton Rd.

Someone else suggested we call ourselves the 2J band & do all the ARP dances & advertise ourselves as the ARP Drones.  They’ve already sold all the tickets for next Saturday’s dance – 150 of them.  They won’t let anyone in without a ticket but if Ern or mum or dad want to come I suppose it will be o.k.  It will have to be, anyway.

We packed up about 11.30 & as it was snowing we left all the instruments at the hospital & they will be brought round tomorrow.  There was a raid on while we were there from 7.45pm to 10.28pm. Ern said he heard planes & guns long before the ARW.  After the siren there were guns occasionally.

Bed 12.30 

Thursday 6^th February 1941

Up 8.10.  Dad didn’t feel well so he stayed in bed.

There was about 4 inches of snow when I went out to work.  We were terribly busy in the afternoon & I was dashing about trying to get home early for the dance, & then when I did see Len, he showed me a letter from the Hospital saying that they couldn’t make all the arrangements in time so it would have to be postponed till another night, but they would let us know as soon as possible.

I spent the evening doing Book-keeping.  A form came for Ern to fill up re the Stirrup Pump team & that stirred him into making arrangements with Mr Brett – the then Pump Party Leader for our road – for forming fire watching parties to be on duty every night from 9pm to 5am.

On the wireless they said Fire-Watching Parties would be issued with Helmets.  – Those in vulnerable areas first – so we should soon get ours.

Bed 12.10

Friday 7^th February 1941

Because I was a bit late today the kid got in early & was there when I arrived. Dad went to work today.

Miss Joseph asked me again today whether I was going to join the savings group.  I don’t know whether to or not,  I’ll see what dad says.

I drew my first increased salary today.  

Saw a Balloon that had broken loose & was travelling N.E.  It was going along tail down & nose up in the air.  It was very low & I bet it came down without being shot at.

Bert came in for a while & we sorted out the music for tomorrow.

Miss Bailey asked if she could have a look at my MM.  she said she had seen that Brian Laurence was a father & she wanted to see if it told when he was married as she didn’t think it was 9 months ago.  

Her mind must be worse than the Northern Outfall Sewer.  Positively Filthy as Miss N.B. would say.

Saturday 8^th February 1941

Nice work Wavell.^XX  A couple of days ago in the Daily Express it said if the advance continues at its present rate we would reach Benghazi in 5 or 6 days, & yesterday you capture it.  Wavell, you will go down in History with Clive, Nelson, Wellington, Drake, Wolfe, Kitchens & all the rather great generals but you will be greater than most of them.  I think we can reach the Libya/Tunisian border that old Weggard would join us & break with Vichy,^XXI – & there’s another problem – what is going on behind the scenes at Vichy & Paris.

I dreamt last night that the invasion began but woke up before I had found out who won.

Went up library & got “Century of Humour” Wodehouse

“The Forest Fire” ET Thurston^XXII

“Furthermore” Damon Runyon^XXIII

Went round the Credon Rd school & arranged tonight’s programme.  Home for tea & then back to Credon Rd about 6.15.  Tonight’s Band was Hilda, I, Bert, Ron, Len, Ed, Mr Lamb & Ron’s brother on the guitar.

It wasn’t too bad but it could have been much better. The guitar was all out & actually the band sounded better without it – one of the strings broke so he had to stop playing.  We came away at 1.30 but lots of people still stayed after.  We had a fairly good time but on the whole I was disappointed in it.

Once during the evening Len Bert & I had a go by ourselves, we played Mem’ries live longer than Dreams, we had to play it 3 times & then we played some more waltzes after that & then Whispering & Down & Out Blues & we let them jitterbug with “In The Mood” & did we get clapped.

Bed 2.10am

Sunday 9^th February 1941

Up 9.15.  Went to school.

When I got back from school I saw Ern & Mr Brett going round & getting names for the Street Fire Patrol so I went round with them.  Most people were very enthusiastic – even women volunteered for fire watching & instruction in how to deal with bombs – but some -notably Gardeners – would have nothing to do with it. Ern & Mr Brett finished the job after dinner & they got 41 male fire watchers 7 female fire watchers 22 males for bomb instruction 5 females for bomb instruction.

Although the women can have instruction, Ern & Mr Brett aren’t going to have them as fire-watchers unless it’s absolutely necessary.

ARW 3.30 to 3.44 all quiet.  I bathed after.

After tea Dad went on to the shop for his turn at fire watching & I went round to Credon Rd for a practice.  Bert Len & I felt on form & we did good work. Hilda was there & a chap who played a phone fiddle but we don’t want him – the fiddle goes right through & Syd is not having him in the band.  We packed up at 9.15.  I heard the last 10 mins of Churchill’s speech – very good too.^XXIV

ARW 7.46 to 9.40 few guns at start but quiet after that.

Joe – one of the wardens was telling me that he used to be in a band & he’s got a card & he can go in any music publishers & get whatever music he wants – free professional copies – by showing this card.  He showed me some of the music.  Les got, orchestrated & ordinary.  He said if Mark – the head warden – gave me a note & explained to the music publisher I was doing dances for the ARP I could get free music too. So Syd is bringing a note round to home tomorrow night & on Tuesday I can start going to the various music publishers.

I’m getting 7/6d pocket money now.

Bert has paid Dad a £1 of what he was lent for the drum.

Miss Joseph has been asking me again whether I am going to join the savings group so when I told dad he said I might as well and said also that as they would want my number I had better take my book with me – & he gave me a saving certificate book with 2 certificates in it that he bought for me last July & August.

Bed 12.

Monday 10^th February 1941

Up 8.40

I’ve joined the savings group for 1/- per week & I saw Miss Greenwood about it.  I’m no 39 in the group. I’ve been looking into my financial position it is a follows – 

Savings Bank £7.13.0

Savings certificates £1.10.0

To come from Bert £1.10.0

Total £10.13.0

Plus interest on Saving Bank & Certificates

Syd came round with a letter to the PM music Co.  He said if it works he will get letters for all the others Co’s but if it doesn’t – well – that’s that.

I did some bookkeeping.  ARW 10.11 to 11.2 pm all quiet.

Bed 11.30

Tuesday 11^th February 1941

Up 8.30

Went in Bert’s House in evening, Len was in there.  After a while Len & I went round to the school to see Syd & tell him that I was unlucky when I went to the P.M. music shop today.  The chap said there not doing any free music now but if we join the Piano copy section of the club we can get 30 no’s for 8/- saving over 2/3 of what they would cost if we bought them separately at a shop.  Syd said he would ring up all the shops tomorrow & see what they say.  

Ern is doing fire watching at East Ham tomorrow night.

Bed 11.30

Wednesday 12^th February 1941

Up 8.30

Found a lovely book at work today I brought it home to read. Went in with Bert for a while.

Bed 11.20.  Read that book in bed.  ARW 2am 2.50am all quiet.

ARW 2.32 home 2.36 City AC 2.45pm all quiet.

Thursday 13^th February 1941

Up 8.20. it’s a good job I brought that book home because I had to sort out everything behind where I found it.

Bert bought “Strike up the Band” & “The Badge from your Coat”.

About 7 Bert Len & I went to Balaam St school we arrived before anyone else & had a practice.  Hilda Ted Ron Mr Lamb & Ron’s brother were there Syd was there as well.  There were some Balloon Barrage Boys there & a chap from the Cedars.  Hilda is going round Balmouth next Wednesday & next Saturday we are all going round the Cedars.  

One of the women wardens round there asked us all round her house for a cup of tea.  On Sunday week she wants us all round there when her daughter comes home.  But I think I’ll suggest to the boys that we don’t go because there’s not much room & they don’t want the drums.

Syd bought round a mike belonging to Bert & I brought it home for Ern to look at as it won’t always go.

Bed 11.15

ARW 8.13 8.32 pm bombs before ARW quiet after alarm

Friday 14^th February 1941

Started the savings group today.

Bert came in for a while in the evening and we went in the front room

Bed 11.30

ARW 7.33pm 11pm,  noisy at times.

Saturday 15^th February 1941

My nose bled 7 times today.  I think I’ll see Kyndt about it.  Maybe it will help if I become a blood-donor.

We were going to the Cedars tonight to give a show, but I didn’t go because of my nose. Bert & Len went thought.  I borrowed Bert’s Accordion.

Had hair cut in afternoon. Saw Alf Smith in Barbers.

ARW Home 11.37 am 11.54am

City 11.39am 11.57am all quiet.

ARW 7.55pm 8.59pm very noisy, a good deal of the time.

ARW 10.48 pm 3.45am very noisy at times.

Just before the AC one of our planes flew over very low.

Bed 12.15

Sunday 16^th February 1941

Up 9 went to school.  After school I went to see Freddie.  His Ma said he’d been ill the last 3 weeks & was staying at Grays. But he was coming home tonight.

ARW 12.30pm.  A plane had gone over just before.  AC 12.52pm just before AC a plane flew over. 

Saw Bert.  He said that it wasn’t much last night so I didn’t miss much.

Bert & I went for a walk in the afternoon round to Syd’s house.  I took the mike.  Ern mended it & its fine now.

After tea Auntie Lillie came over.  She stopped till turned 9. Bed 11.30.

Monday 17^th February 1941

Up 8.20

I went to P.C. in the afternoon & started shifting the files.  I saw the old boy while I was there, funny looking old devil.  He’s got dirty pictures all round the house & although when we started on the books, I didn’t see any dirty ones, Gray said that the old boys got lot of them.  Maybe he keeps them where he can often look at them.

I just messed about all the evening.  ARW 2.45pm to 3.11pm all quiet.

ARW 7.24 pm to 11.20pm.  The raid was very noisy at times, several bombs were dropped & a fire was caused at the Docks.  It was extinguished fairly quickly through.  Bed 11.40

Tuesday 18^th February 1941

Up 8.20

Went up P.C. in the afternoon & sorted some more books.

In the evening we went to Balaam St school.  One of the woman warden’s daughters has lent me an accordion.  I hope I get on alright with it.  Joe has promised to lend me a bass note chart & that’s all that’s bothering me – I can play the treble.

Joe is also going to lend me a clarinet.

Mrs Beech – Mrs Patrick Campbells daughter – came to the office today.XXV

Wednesday 19^th February 1941

Went up P.C. again in afternoon.

This morning Mrs Riess came to the office, of all the out & out stinkers she’s the worst. All swank & bounce & an exaggerated accent “Aoh Noaw” kind of thing & you can tell her character as soon as you look at her.  When she got her divorce, she had to apply for the discretion of the court & now herself her ex-husband & present husband are all on such good terms that she wants to alter her will & make both husbands the trustees of her son by her first marriage.  The place wanted fumigating when she left to get rid of the stink of her so-called perfume.

In the evening I practised on the piano & the accordion but then went to see Joe, but he forgot the clarinet, so we ain’t got that.

I was going in Bert’s house with the accordion but just as I was going in the ARW sounded so I didn’t go in.

ARW 8.49pm to 10.46pm noisy at times.

Thursday 20^th February 1941

Mr Bratt & I got a form each from Westminster library & we both joined it. Our tickets will be ready next Saturday.

Went round Credon Rd School in the evening for a practice .  We’ve got a Sax at last.  A soldier from Russel Rd his names Harry.  He’s a jolly good player to.  He comes from Yorkshire.  His coming to Balaam St on Saturday. Bert & I saw him back to Russell Rd School as he didn’t know his way.  We packed up practising when the ARW went at 9.6 to 9.41 & was all quiet.  We had an ARW in the morning 10.53am till 11.40am in the city it was 10.52am 11.38am all quiet.

We left the Bass Drum round Credon Rd.

Friday 21^st February 1941

Len, Bert & I went round to Credon Rd to get the Bass Drum.

Bert gave me 10/-for the drum.  I gave it to Dad.  Dad gave me £3/16/3 for a new season ticket.

ARW 1.22am 3.17am noisy at times

ARW 4.15am 6.13am noisy at start quiet after.

ARW 11.58pm 12.45am gun before ARW few guns just after alarm then quiet.

Saturday 22^nd February 1941

I didn’t go to work but went to Dr Kyndt’s instead to see if he knew of a way to completely stop my nose bleeding.  My nose has bled every day except one for over a week. I rang up the office.

Kyndt said the only way to completely stop it was to have it cauterised & he gave me a letter to take to Queen Marys Hospital.^XXVI

Bert & I went round to the Boleyn I bought some music – I got “Room 504” “& So Do I” “Sierra Sue” “Only for Ever” & “Our Love Affair”.  Then I went round & joined the H.S.A.

Went to library & got “London 8,000,000.” J.A. Jones “The War in Maps” J.F. Horrabin.

Went to Queen Marys Hosp. saw one of the Lady almoners and she told me to be there at 9.30 on Tuesday.^XXVII

Went to Balaam St School.  8 in Band, Hilda piano, me Piano & Piano accordion, Bert Drums, Len Xylophone, Harry Sax, Ted Piano Accordion Bill Lamb Banjo Ron’s brother guitar.

It was the best dance we’ve had, we had a platform & a good mike & we sounded really good & it was the first time we’ve had 8 altogether.  There was plenty to eat & drink too.  Harry had to leave before 11 but we carried on till 12.30.  We left the Bass Drum there.  A jolly fine time was had by all.

Sunday 23^rd February 1941

Went to school. Bathed in afternoon.  In evening Bert Len & I went round to 55 Chesterton Terrace to the party.  I took the P.A.  Ted Vera Syd & Hilda not our Hilda but another.  Mr Lamb brought his wife & his 2 daughters – His eldest daughter is very nice I wouldn’t mind taking her home one night.  Altogether there was nearly 2 dozen.  We broke it up about 11.30pm.  I left the P.A. there.

ARW 8.10 to 10.9.  some guns at first mostly quiet after.  

ARW 11.35 to 10.5.  all quiet.

Monday 24^th February 1941

Went to Westminster library got 2 books for Mr Bratt & got “Lord Halifax’s Ghost Book” for myself.

Bert, Len & I went to Balaam St school to Hilda’s birthday party in the evening.  We had a jolly fine time.   Mr Lambs daughter was there but I didn’t get a chance to speak to her.  There was a soldier from Harold Rd school who played the piano & could he play it. He was perfect for a band.  His name is Harry Whiteleg.

We asked him if he could come round & give me lessons & he jumped at the chance of going out for the night 6 till 10.  We finished about 9.40.  Syd helped us home with the Bass Drum.

ARW 8.23pm 11.26pm all quiet.

Tuesday 25^th February 1941

Up 8.30.  Got to hospital 9.30 saw the Lady Almoner had to pay 1/- for treatment.

It was rotten waiting for the specialist – draughty & the benches were hard & cold.  When I did see him he didn’t do much – just shoved some stuff up my nose on bits of cotton wool.  I think he cauterised it because it tingled a bit.  I’ve got to see him again in a months’ time.  I got some ointment that cost me 6d so altogether I think it was cheap to get the bleeding stopped.  Exceedingly cheap.

I spent the afternoon reading.

I went round for Harry about 7 but he couldn’t come as he was on Fire Duty so I’ve promised to see him on Friday.

As I passed the empty houses in Plaistow Park Rd coming home I heard a soldier & a girl in one of the houses.  From the sounds I heard I recon the soldier felt weak next morning.

When I got back Freddie was talking to Bert.  Freddie wants me to go round to see a friend of his girl who he’s bringing to his house one night.

I spent the evening in Bert’s house helping him make a Boulton Paul^XXVIII his mums bought him for his birthday.

Wednesday 26^th February 1941

Up 9.35

ARW 1.54pm 2.8pm all quiet.

Took my music round to Syd, he’s going to sort it out tomorrow for the concert tomorrow night.  I took it round in an Air Raid coming home the guns were popping away merrily.

ARW 7.25pm.

Syd told me that Hilda can’t come tomorrow & Harry is going to play – Good News!

Several bombs were dropped about 8.50 we all dashed out but the pillars of smoke seemed over the Barking Rd & too far away for us to help.

Mum was over at Aunt Lilies so Dad & I went over there for a while.

AC 10.22pm.

After the bombs had fallen we saw about a dozen flares all around us.  Another ARW 10.38 till 11.8 few guns fired just before & just after ARW all quiet after.

Thursday 27^th February 1941

Dad was on fire watching duty all afternoon round the shop.

ARW 11.14am till 11.27

In city 11.18 till 11.31

All quiet

ARW 11.49 1.19 all quiet.

 In the evening we went round to Russel Rd & had a rehearsal. There was Bert & Ron Drums me P.A. Len Xylophone Harry Sax; Harry, piano, Bill Remfry Guitar: & the Caretaker violin.

The E.O. Lieutenant Craddock seemed quite enthusiastic.  Arranged to meet Harry tomorrow & take him home.

Friday 28^th February 1941

That specialist hasn’t  stopped my nose bleeding after all, I’ve had 3 these last 2 days.

Bratt’s leaving.  I had to make a search today first step in taking over most of his work.  I think I ought to get another rise for it.  

It was very interesting making the search.  I read through all the file while I was there.

Home 6.45.  Fred called round I told him I could call round & see him Monday evening.  His girl & the girl he wants me to see will be there.

Went round for Harry about 7.15. had another disappointment he’s been shoved on fire picket duty again, he’s on next Monday as well so I hope to have him home Tuesday.

He gave me another shock.  Lieut Craddock had come to the conclusion that there would be too many people there if there is an ARW  so he’s cancelled the dance.  We may have it on the afternoon of Sunday  March 9^th but an afternoon dance isn’t as good as an evening one.

Saw Len & Bert.  Len thinks he can get a £26 Xylophone for £12 on the never-never his mum has promised to be security & all he has to do is find if the shop will accept H.P; but after all our disappointment’s we are keeping our fingers crossed.  

ARW 8.22 to 9.19 all quiet.

When Ern came in he said that a flare was dropped over Barking way & it didn’t go out till 9.50.

ARW 10.49 to 11.16.

Few guns just before & just after alarm all quiet otherwise. Bed 12.30

Book 22

Saturday 1^st March 1941

Went up Park Crescent.

Went with Bert in the afternoon to get some music, got the biggest bargain going “Darktown Strutters Ball” & for – 6d.  The woman told us the traveller had 1 copy & she took it in the chance someone would want it.  It was in the front of the display so it’s a wonder someone didn’t grab it before we did.  Got besides that Down Every Street 1/-

If Tears Could Bring You Back 6d

Oh Buddy I’m in Love 6d

 We Three 1/-. 

All in Favour Say Aye! 1/-

Umbrella Man hadn’t come in yet.  

We went round & saw Syd & arranged to go round Credon Rd & have an impromptu dance to make up for Russell being cancelled.  We went round Credon about 7pm.  We played for a while & then we went in the other room & played table tennis for a while.  We packed up at 10.30.  There were about 2 or 3 dozen people there.  ARW 8.18 to 8.50 few guns at first.  ARW 9.40 to 10.41 very quiet.

Sunday 2^nd March 1941

School in morning.

In the afternoon Bert & I went round to Teds to collect the Bass Drum as we left it there last night.  Ted is a model aeroplane enthusiast he’s got some jolly fine models.  We stopped there till 5 talking & playing.  When we got home Doris was there.  We went round Dads shop & played table tennis.  Bert wiped me by 10 games to nil the scores were 

21.12

21.19

21.16

21.13

23.21

21.09

21.09

21.16

21.09

21.09

21.12

212.136 OVER 21.2 TO 13.6

When we got home I helped Bert with his Boulton Paul & then did a bit to my solid Boulton Paul.

Lily & Rose came over. ARW 12.28am to 12.38am.  No enemy activity 1 of our planes flew over very low.  ARW 8.26 to 9.19pm.  A few guns were heard.  Ern was on fire watching tonight.

Monday 3^rd March 1941

Got my 3 months season ticket.  I had to go to the Savoy Hotel today to the Pilgrims at room 751.  The lifts there are very good indeed very fast & you don’t even realise that you are moving when you are in them.  I went there to get Mr Guedalla a ticket for the dinner given for Mr J.G. Winant^XXIX the new American ambassador.  In the afternoon I went up to The Red X with some books.  I had to go to 48 Queens Gardens.  It was lovely walking along by the park.  It was very cool & quiet, you could easily realise Spring was on its way.

It made me think of the days we’ve spent at Richmond by the river for some reason, I could see in my mind the river winding along & the crowded, airy steamers going by – crossing the river on the ferry to get water for the Tea – going rowing. It was quite a shock to find myself in the city again.  Maybe I’ll have more days like those when the war is over.

About 4.30 we heard 2 terrific explosions, nobody had any idea what they were.

I went round to Freddie’s house.  His girl is very nice indeed – he’s sure picked a winner, but the girl that his girl Mary, wanted me to meet was an old boot that lives round in Southern Rd.  I got on alright with Mary, but when the time came to go home I made sure that I didn’t take the girl by myself.  We all went.  I asked Fred & Mary to come to our dance on Saturday.  I said I’d let them know definitely about it.  When I got home I started on my Boulton Paul again.  Len knocked just then & showed me a note he’d got from the hospital saying they hoped we hadn’t forgotten about next Wednesday & asking us to go round tonight.  In the end we decided that I should see the 2 Harry’s & Bert & Len would see Ted tomorrow night & if they would come we would go but otherwise we wouldn’t go.

ARW went then, after we had heard a plane & some guns.  ARW 9.35 till 1.20am.  The raid was noisy at times with quiet intervals.

Tuesday 4^th March 1941

Bert rang up at work to say that he had taken his drum equipment to work to be re-chromed  they could get it done before Friday so that he rang me up to say that we wouldn’t be able to do the job at the hospital tomorrow, definitely.

When I got home Mum said Syd had been round & wanted us to go round Credon tonight – Mum told him I was having Harry & Syd said, “bring him too”.

I saw Bert & we said that we couldn’t go without the drums & it would only be a practice anyway so we wouldn’t bother to go.

I was going to get Harry & then Len & Bert would go to the Hospital & say we couldn’t come.  I went round for Harry & was told he had gone out.  I came to the conclusion that Syd had called on him & got him to go to the school.  I went back to Bert & the 2 of us called for Len.  We were on our way to the Hospital & the siren went.  It soon warmed up & while we were going there & while we were there the guns were popping away busily.

We saw Miss Ray or wherever her name is, in the nurse’s room.  We told her about the drum & of course she started off about it had let her down badly & we had promised etc.etc.  Of course we had to agree.

And then with one thing & another she said she had seen Hilda & Hilda had said she didn’t want to go.  No-one had danced there & anyway the ones they wanted – the 4 youngsters weren’t members of the band & she could do what she liked with them.  As Miss Ray said they didn’t want Hilda, she was the reason no-one dances she’s too eccentric in her timing, when I was playing she said it was a different proposition & they all danced.

After hearing what Hilda had said that was a different proposition & we said that if they would help us to rake up some Drum Kit & some music we would turn up.  So one of the men- the dance M.C. gave us a note to a friend of his who had run dance bands.  We had to go round to his house, 103 Carson Rd – the other side of the Abbey Arms.  That fellow sent us to a chap on the Barking Rd near where Aunt Lily used to live.  

The fellow we wanted was round the Billion Hall & he said we could borrow the stuff so we went back to the house but his old man said he didn’t know where the stuff was kept (I bet he thought we were con men or something like that actually) so we arranged to call for them tomorrow. Then we called at the Hospital to let them know it was alright for tomorrow.  We called indoors & then went round Credon Rd.

Syd was at the gate with another chap so we got Syd in the playground by ourselves, – incidentally we had been lucky enough to meet Ted outside his house & had told him the story & he agreed that he was the only one who could be the fourth person who wasn’t in the band so he came with us – the first thing we asked Syd was “are we members of the band” he said “Why”? well: what: of course you are.” “Well” we said “what the hell is Hilda going about saying were not members of the band, for then” & we told all of the story we thought good for him to know. 

Bill Lamb was round there & he joined us & we had a long talk about one thing & another & I think that maybe this will clear the air.  Syd is going to see Hilda tomorrow & have a talk with her.  As we said we don’t want to break the band up or let Syd down because he’s treated us aright & we get on well with him, but we’re not working under 2 bosses & we prefer Syd as a boss.  Syd is going to leave a note in my door tomorrow saying when we can see Hilda ‘cause we told him that we want to see her ourselves have a talk with her.

We also spoke about letting people play on our instruments & Syd said he’s told Hilda about Ron hanging around, as Bert says the bust up will come when someone refuses to pay for 2 drummers & anyway its Bert’s kit so why shouldn’t he use it. 

The attitude Lamb took in the discussion rather surprised me, he was neutral, & I should have thought he would support Hilda, I suppose he knows he can’t afford to argue with Syd.

I think that this affair will smooth over everything, thought & maybe we will all work better together after this.  

The ARW was from 7.38 to 10.50.  it was very noisy for a while but there was a very long quiet period, then a few guns then the A.C.

Wednesday 5^th March 1941

ARW 12.35pm 12.46pm

City 12.36 12.45

All quiet.

Len Bert & I went to Hospital in evening Bert & Len went & got loan of drum kit I sorted music.  Wardens Joe & Bert were there.  Started dance 5 to 8.  The dance was lousy the only dances they would do were waltzes & Palais glides^XXX & novelty dances i.e. Boomps & doing Lambeth walk we had an interval at 9.30.  It was going to be at 9.15 but the water for the tea didn’t boil & we had to keep going.  The whole thing was badly mismanaged.

We had said we were leaving at 11 but the M.C. asked us to stay a little longer.  A few minutes after he came over to me & said “stop as long as you can, they are talking about paying you & we’re getting a car to take you home”.  So we stopped a while longer.  There was a girl with an accordion there who played with us & then she had a turn on the piano & then I finished up the dance.  It was at quarter to 12.  And we didn’t get paid.

After the M.C. saying there were talking of paying us.  All we got was some cigarettes each. It was a bloody dirty trick to play on us.  But still that’s the last dance we’re doing for them.  She wanted us to promise to come next month but we’re not having any more of funny business with them.

We came home by car & I got in as the clock struck 12.

Thursday 6^th March 1941

2 alarms during daytime. 

11.48 12.2  – All quiet

12.15 12.45 – All quiet

Today Miss Joseph said I could do all the office cash & petty cash books.  First step up to doing all the books.

I’m going to see that Kenneth keeps his book properly, as well, because if he doesn’t it’s going to make my work harder.

Went to Westminster library & got “Journey without End” by F.A. Waterhouse.

Went & saw Syd in the evening.  He hasn’t seen Hilda yet.  Dance at Stock Street starts at 7pm Saturday.

I heard Syd play the piano he’s not much at present but all he wants is practice.  I went round to Teds after & we arranged a programme for the dance.

ARW while I was at Teds.  We had heard a plane come over & dive & circle about but I think it was one of ours.  The siren went while this plane was going around.  We heard another plane after the alarm.  Warning went 7.47pm.  AC 8.6 pm.

When I got home I saw Bert & then did some more of my plane. 

Friday 7^th March 1941

In the morning at work I had to go to 19a Gower Mews to look over the garage there, as we are letting it, & report on its condition & in the afternoon I had to go & see a representation of a builders & take him to see the Garage & give an estimate for the re-plastering of the ceiling where some of it has fallen.  Altogether an interesting day.

In the evening I saw Bert’s drum kit now it’s been re-chromed.  It looks smashing.  It shines just like silver & it shows up the side drum by comparison.

I spent the rest of the evening, indoors.

We had an ARW at 11.20am & it lasted till 11.33am but it was all quiet.

Saturday 8^th March 1941

Went up library in afternoon Got “I Wear the Burnous” AG Storer “The Twister” E Wallace & Modern Short Stories”.

Went round music shop & got “What a surprise for the Duce” & “When the Blackbird says bye bye.” 

Also got a tube of cement to stick my Barton Paul together.

Bert Len & I went round to Stock St School about 6.30.  Syd & Fred were there.  They had been there all afternoon.

The piano was lousy.  The notes were stiff & some of them wouldn’t play & one of them stuck down & it was out of tune.  It was the most terrible piano we’ve had.  I didn’t envy Hilda when she was playing.  The whole thing was lousy the band had to tucked away in a corner & the 2 piano accordions had to lead.  The only decent thing was the interval.  We packed up for nearly an hour while we stuffed ourselves with sandwiches & cakes.  The ARW went at 7.50 & it had been very noisy.  Just as we had finished there were several bombs dropped all round the school.

The hall emptied extremely rapidly when that happened, but for some time after they wouldn’t let anyone out.  When they did let us go we went in parties.  There was a fire over Stratford way when we left & we were told a good deal of incendiaries had dropped that way.  The fire was visible for a very long way & kept flaring up as if there were explosions occurring there.

Syd told me on the quiet that there was a hole in the High St.  that had just been made & we had to go round Clay St to get home.  

Soon after I got in Ern came in & said 3 bombs were dropped. 1 at the back of the Co-op, 1 outside the Black Lion in Richmond St & 1 in the Black Lion Gardens.

The one in Richmond St had set fire to a Gas main & there was a decent blaze. Ern & some others nearly had it out & then Ern said he went round the School to get me but of course I was home.  He dashed out again soon after & then I went out to have a look at the fire.  The bomb fell in this position:  

• 

The bombs fell very close together so the plane must have been low.  They were only 250 lb bombs.

The AC went at 12.7am.  I met Ern round by the bomb hole, while I was watching the firemen playing the hose on the wall of the Black Lion to stop it catching fire.

Ern took me to see the crater behind the co-op.

Bed at 2am.

Sunday 9^th March 1941

ARW 7.10am to 7.20am.  All quiet.

Went to School.  The fire we saw last night was at Mile End.  About 12.30 Bert Ted & I went to Stock St School to collect our stuff.

Bert Len & I went round to Russel School about 2.50.  We started soon after 3.  Ted & Mr Lamb didn’t arrive for about 15 mins after we had started.  The dance was absolutely the best we’ve ever done.  Mum & Dad Mrs Clay Joyce, Ralph & his mother, & Mrs Donovan were all there, but dad had to go firewatching after a couple of hours. 

I don’t think the dance could have been better than it was.  We had 3 breaks – 2 short & 1 long.  What made the dance even better was the fact that I played the piano most of the time except Hilda.  The only thing that marred it was the fact that Hilda started showing off towards the end of the dance.  We agreed to do another dance next week & just before we finished one of the officers made an announcement about the next dance & said there would be a small charge to cover expenses – I hope he means to pay us.  The dance finished about 7.15 & we got home about 7.45.  Our people helped us home with the stuff.

Bert saw the people, who are getting married on Saturday this morning.  We are getting at least 24/- for the job.

Soon after we got in Lillie Rose & Joyce came over with the rent.

We had an ARW at 8.5pm till 11.44pm.  Soon after it started things livened up & several bombs had fallen.  Ern came in soon after & said that up the Greengate several breadbaskets had fallen & he had been putting out the firebombs as they fell.  He said about 50% were exploding ones.  The nearest fell at Huxstables old shop.  Several fell in the bus depot & set fire to the paint shop.  They’ve achieved there object at last, they’ve tried for that Garage often enough but couldn’t get it but at last they have got it.

Dad & I walked up to Perth Rd but we couldn’t see much happening.

The raid was like last September we heard many time bombs fall.

While we were doing the dance there was a fire watchers meeting at Lister Institute & the watching starts next Wednesday.  Bert & I are on the following Wednesday from 2 to 6am – actually Thursday morning.

Monday 10^th March 1941

ARW 12.23am to 1.18am.  Guns were heard about 12.10.  The raid was noisy for a short while & then quietened.  Went to bed about 1.

ARW 2.32am to 3.5. It was not a very bad raid, quiet mostly.

Up 8.20

ARW as I started out to work at 9.30 lasted 9.38.  All quiet but Miss Bayley said that at Lewisham there was fairly heavy gunfire both before & during the raid.

I had a shock as I walked to the station.  2 doors from Harking’s, which was hit by a bomb & next to Wynnes, a bomb hit what used to be an oil shop & has made a crater in the road.  Men were already working on it when I went by,  & when I got home again in the evening the hole stretched right across the road.  4 bombs all on top of one and another in 2 nights, some going.

Len Bert & I went round to see Syd.  We picked up Ted on our way & then after going to the school & Syd’s house, we found he was at Stock St School.

A great deal of time bombs were dropped last night & the people have been evacuated to Stock St school & Syd was making a list of them for some reason, or so we understood.

Hilda’s is the first house not evacuated in Rochester Avenue.  A DA fell between Rochester Avenue & Green St End. The people are evacuated from St Marys Rd and downwards.  Syds house is o.k. thought.  He lives Green Street end.

Ted left us then but as we 3 got home Ted drew up on his bike & we all stood talking for some time.  Just after we dispersed the ARW sounded for 510^th time at 8.23.  It lasted till 8.55 & was all quiet, at 9.23 we heard an AC in the distance.  We had another ARW at 11.15 till 12.14 all quiet. 

Went to Westminster library & got “Indiscrete Travels East”.

Bed 1am.

Tuesday 11^th March 1941

ARW 2.40am AC 3.5am All quiet.  ARW 3.45am AC 4.30am all quiet.  I didn’t hear the ARW’s so the times are only approximate.

From Aldgate to Mansion House, I had to take a bus this morning.  I suppose they’ve found a time bomb (or bombs) on the line and I went over them yesterday.

When I got in I met Gray by the lift.  He just popped in to see us for a few minutes.  He’s not doing too badly.

My suit seems to be falling to pieces lately so when I got in I changed into an old suit & let mum mend my other one.

Bert & I (Len has a cold so he stopped in) went round & saw Ted & then we were going to see Syd. 

But as we left Ted’s house the ARW went so we turned back as we had promised to come home if the siren went.  Time was 8.29pm.  The guns fired as the ARW was going.  

All through the raid we heard guns & occasionally we heard a plane.  The AC went about 2 or 3 minutes after the guns had been firing at 12.23am.  Bert was in with us till 10.30.

Ted wants Bert to get his music stand chromed, at work.

Wednesday 12^th March 1941

Had to go by bus between Aldgate East & Mansion House.  

I stopped in all evening.

Fire watching started in our Road tonight.  The first ones on were Len Sewell & Mr Perkins.  We had an ARW at 7.56pm & although the guns were rather noisy, sometimes we had no real excitement.  It was a lovely moonlight night & you could see from one end of the road to the other very clearly. I spent some time out by the gate.  

Bed 12.30

AC 1.15am

Thursday 13^th March 1941

ARW 2.12am AC 3.0am quiet mostly.  ARW 3.15am 4.10am.

Bombs were dropped at Barking at 3.40am.

I went & saw Syd in the evening he gave me 22/6d for the 3 of us.  7/6 more than I expected to get.  I gave Bert his 7/6d & then we went up Lens & gave him his.

Bert stayed in with us for a while.

ARW  8.59  The raid was quiet mostly but when the guns went they weren’t very bad.  We didn’t hear the AC but so far as we know it went at 3.20am.

Friday 14^th March 1941

I took over the cash box today at work.

While at lunch I bought “Lawrence Wright 6^th album of famous Dances”.^XXXI

Had to go to Park Crescent in afternoon.

Bert didn’t feel very well tonight.

Ted called round & said Syd had wanted us all to go & have a practice tonight but as Bert couldn’t go Len & I wouldn’t so I suppose it was cancelled.

ARW 8.21pm 3.5pm.  The raid was never very bad & the gunfire was never very bad.  1 DA^XXXII dropped.

Reg Powder was on fire duty & I stopped out the front with him till nearly 1am.

Saturday 15^th March 1941

Jam is going to be rationed & when old Bratt came in he had 2 2lb tins of jam & when Jo came in he told her how he had got them at the Civil Service stores & then Jo asked me to go & see what I could get for her & I managed to get 8lb of fig jam in 4 2 lb tins.  Then Miss Bailey went & got 1lb of a whole fig jam – which EVB bought & 2 1 lb tins of Cape gooseberry Jam.  No-one took any today – we are leaving it till Monday.  When I told mum about it she told me to get what I could.

Went round music shop & got “Beat me Daddy 8 to a Bar”  “Where do we go from here”  “That’s for Me” & “Weep No More”.  

Had haircut.

Saw Syd in the evening he wants us to be at Russell about 3 tomorrow.

Bert was in bed when Len & I saw him.  I hope he is alright for tomorrow.  Went up Lens for a while in the evening.

ARW 1.45pm 1.57pm all quiet.

While I was at Lens the ARW went time 8.38.  The raid got fairly bad so I came home about 9.15.  Several bombs had dropped & the guns were terrific at times & the planes were following one another.  AC went at 12.10am.

Went to library & got “Sid Puddiefoot” by P MacGill  “Whispering Death” Roy Vickers & “How Dare You  Sir” Noel Godber.

Sunday 16^th March 1941

Up 9.  Had bath. Went to school.

Len Bert & I went round Russel about 3pm.  Our mothers came later.  The dance went off very well.  I played the piano part of the time.  We got home at 8 pm.  Leslie came over just after.

ARW 9 to 10.15pm, all quiet.  

I stayed up till 12.45 to finish reading “Sid Puddiefoot” which is an excellent novel.

Monday 17^th March 1941

Miss Joseph had 2 tins fig jam & 1 tin Cape Gooseberry.  Miss Baily had 1 tin fig & I had 1 fig & 1 gooseberry.

The do we were going to have at Credon Rd tonight was cancelled because of ARP lectures.

So I read about book-keeping & then listened to the radio Rhythm Club sextet, they played In the Mood just as we do with the Bass in the background doing the boogie woogie.

Tuesday 18^th March 1941

Went in with Bert during the evening for a while.

ARW 1.25pm to 2.16 pm, all quiet

ARW 10.36 pm to 5.30am

Guns heard 20 minutes before ARW.

After ARW the raid was quiet.

I went to bed about 11.15.  After about 12 the guns opened up & were terrific all through the night.  Several bombs dropped but none near us.

Wednesday 19^th March 1941

Felt lousy at work.  When I got home I didn’t want anything to eat, but I did have something.

Bert came in to see what we were going to do about the fire watching, we decided he would come in with me.

ARW went at 8.13pm.  it soon got noisy & as Mrs Clay, Ivy & Joyce were alone – Stan being a watcher round Morses – Bert decided to go in.

Ern was having a wash but he hurried & when he finished Dad he & I went out to the front.  We had only been out there a couple of minutes when down came the firebombs, I dashed over the road to outside No 34 where there was one & put some sand on it.  Ern dashed off to Milledge’s Yard where one had fallen.  Jerry was still up & the guns were popping merrily.  Ern came back after a while & said after going in Milledge’s he had to go & cross the alleys & climb a wall to get another out.

After that I can’t remember distinctly what happened exactly I know that Mrs McGarry came in as Mr McGarry had dashed out to help with the bombs.

• 

Brehms was hit & caught fire & lit the place up & after that it was hell.  We had 2 more lots of incendiaries.  Of one lot one fell directly in front of us & nearly blinded us with the glare someone smothered that & the next thing I knew we were all dashing over to No 20 where a bomb had gone in the upstairs back room.  Bert & I worked the pump & Reg & someone else worked the nozzle several people brought water & incidentally someone tipped half a bucket over me.  Mr Jasper had been in the bedroom when the bomb fell & he jumped out of the window.  The bomb exploded after a while & bits fell everywhere the bomb was out in about 5 minutes thought.  Ern & another crowd had gone to No 19 – Crispin’s – where a bomb had gone through the little room roof & landed in the passage at the foot of the stairs, they soon dealt with that.

About 10 minutes after it flared up again & they had to chop up the floorboards & Ern broke the axe & a spade – both of which were ours.

We had gone over to Aunt Lilies place a couple of times to see if they wanted to come over with us, but Leslie was at the club & they said they would stop & wait for him.

But we went over later & the 3 of them did come over.  It was a horrible experience, there were fires all round us & flares were being dropped but the shooting was very good & they were all shot down very rapidly.  One after another high explosives were dropping & there were terrific explosions & every now and again there would be an explosion without any sound of falling & we were all caught by the blast.  Once we nearly got hit by slates & cut by glass.  The glass was falling from every house & we had lost one window.  I could never describe the whole of the raid – in fact it was almost impossible to remember most of what happened, as one thing occurred after another with such rapidity.  About 10.40 or 10.45 several bombs were dropped & when the last one fell I thought our house was collapsing there was such a noise of falling debris.  When I got out there was a crater outside Eve’s house, (Where the black spot is on the diagram)

Ern had the luckiest escape of his life.  He was over in Gardner’s gate & just before they fell he started to come over to us but someone said something to him & he stopped to answer him, if he had walked on he would have been hit by the bomb, thank God that person spoke to him.  A gas main was broken & although we let the ARW & gas people know within 5 minutes of its falling the gas men never turned up, although the gas was turned off at a main somewhere the gas was everywhere & we tried to stop it by putting sand on the leak, luckily no more fire bombs fell after the bomb.  There would have been a nice explosion if there had.  Part of Mrs Eves upstairs was blown in.  We saw Les before he went in his place & he came over with us.  He didn’t say much to his people but to Ern Bert & I he said he had had a terrible job helping to put out a bomb in Fairbairn Hall & he said he had never seen such a sight as he saw from the roof of Fairbairn Hall.  After about 1am the raid quietened & 8 minutes after Bert & I went on duty, at  2am the A.C. went – after the worst raid we have ever experienced.  Fires were still all about us.  The church in the High St was burnt out, they had no water to deal with it.  All the survivors of the night were lucky to come through.

Book 23

Thursday 20^th March 1941

Up 8am after about 3 hours sleep.

Our damage is 2 windows broken, 1 cracked & the upstairs front bedroom wall forced in more & several slates off.  I had to go to work in my best suit as my other one was damp.  I got in at 11.15.  when I got to Plaistow Stn I found a queue stretching right down the hill & round the first road.  All down the queue damage could be seen & piles of sand covering bombs.  Several mines were dropped down Plaistow Rd. & the wreckage of a trolley bus could be seen.  Many roofs were off & outside almost every house were piles of plaster from ceilings.

It was as if we had been struck by an earthquake & a tornado rolled in one.

Buses took us to Aldgate East.  We passed the Leathercloth factory, they seemed to have dropped a mine in there & we could see where one had dropped just outside.

It was the same all the way up to Stepney.  After there, there was nothing.  But this side of it you could see all places smouldering, & firemen still working.  All the others at the office had a quiet night.  At lunchtime I bought “London I Cannot Leave You” “Nobody” & “Johnny Pedlar”.

When I got home I saw Ern talking to Vic – he had come home on leave & so had Len. Funny they should come home at a time like this.  Vic took us in his garden & showed us some bits of kerbstones that had been blown over the roofs.  On the wall of Mrs Burrows house was a deep mark where a huge piece had struck & then fell on to Powders shelter.  The street had been cleaned up a bit, & Dad had covered up our windows.

Powders are going to move to Chadwell Heath.

ARW 2.57 to 3.53pm all quiet. 

ARW 8.34pm

I don’t think any of us felt too good when we heard the siren & Ern who was on duty round the shop, said later that he had decided to come home if we had another blitz.

We had not had any more sand brought round to us & we would have been in a state if any firebombs had fallen but the AC went at 10.4 & we had not heard anything.  At 9.56 we had heard an AC go in the distance.

Friday 21^st March 1941

Spring commences.

Miss Bayley said they had a load of incendiaries in her road.

I felt rather bad at work & had an aspirin & that made me feel a bit better.

Coming home tonight I came all the way by train.

At Whitechapel they did some damage.  1 platform is ruined & as soon as a train passes the men get to work on the track again.  Bert came in last night & told me that Syd & Hilda were bombed out on Wednesday by a land mine which landed between their houses.

I felt bad at home so I decided not to go in tomorrow so I went to bed early & had a drink of hot rum to try and sweat out my cold.

Saturday 22^nd March 1941

Up 10.30.  I got dressed after dinner & sat in the armchair.

Bert came in & I asked him if he would go up the music shop & try & get “Umbrella Man” & “You’d be far better off in a Home”.

Mum went out then.  When she came back, Lieut Craddock was with her, he’d seen Syd & got my address.

They found me asleep on the floor on some cushions & I don’t remember getting down there.  

I felt worse than when I got up.  Lieut Craddock said that as they were going on Monday he didn’t want to cancel the dance so I said that thought I didn’t expect I could go, Len & Bert would & they would have the 2 Harrys & maybe Ted would come.  While the Lieut was here Bert & Len came back from the music shop.  They didn’t get what I wanted but they got “Thanks Mr Roosevelt” & “When that man is dead and gone”

Mum put the gas fire in Ern’s room & I went to bed about 5.

Sunday 23^rd March 1941

I’m not sleeping with Ern any more, he kicks & moves about too much, I got hardly any sleep with it.

Up 11.

Missed night school for the first time, this morning.

I felt better after dinner & went round to Russell.

The last dance wasn’t too bad there was Harry, Harry, Len, Bert, I & that fellow with the squeaky violin thing & another bloke who asked if he could bring his accordion so we said he could.

The swank of that fellow was astounding.  We were damn glad when he went home.

We wished the 2 Harrys all the best at their new place, & so we lost two damn fine members of the band.

As soon as I got in my nose started bleeding it bled for over an hour.

Les & Doris came over & brought us some Port to drink their health – they got engaged today.

They went about 11. 

Saw Syd at the dance.  He looks very bad and walks funnily, he’s going to hospital tomorrow & then he’s calling on us.

Hilda was there for a while.  Her ankles hurt a bit but she’s ok otherwise.

Monday 24^th March 1941

Up 9.15.

My nose bled again for some time.  In afternoon went up library & got “Exploits of Fidelity Dove” R Vickers “Return of Mr Budd” G Verner & “Spies Ltd” G.H. Teed.

Syd didn’t come & I spent the evening reading.

Tuesday 25^th March 1941

Up 9.15

Bert came to the hospital with me as he is still at home.

We had to wait at the hospital a very long while.  When I saw the Dr & told him of my nose bleedings he cauterized the other side, and did he put some stuff up there.  My nose felt as it was burning off & some of it must have got in my mouth because it felt very funny & seemed to go stiff.  We got home about 12.45pm.

After diner Bert & I went to the Granada we saw Arthur Askey, Richard Murdock, Moore Marriott & Graham Moffatt in “Charley’s Big Hearted Aunt” & Boris Karloff in “The Ape”. We also saw what happened in the Lofoten island raid in a film called “Lofoten” it showed actual pictures taken at Lofoten during the raids & it was the finest bit of propaganda I’ve ever seen.^XXXIII  There was an organist as well.

On our way to the Granada we walked to the music shop & I bought “Waltzing in the Clouds” & a piano accordion tutor.

Home 5.30 

In the evening Len & Bert came in

Wednesday 26^th March 1941

Went to work – & then I wished I hadn’t.  

We were terrifically busy & I’ve still got a lot of work up there.  Bratt is leaving on 7^th April.  Thank goodness we won’t have to put up with him much longer.  

Bert & Len came in for a while in the evening.

Thursday 27^th March 1941

In the evening Bert Len & I went round to see the chap that Len hopes to get a Sax from.  He was not in thought.

Then we went in Lens house. All the time we were out & when we left Len’s house to come home, there were an enormous number of searchlights out, maybe they were looking for troop-carrying Zeps.  

Ern was firewatching from 2 to 6 so he didn’t go to bed.

Friday 28^th March 1941

Up 8.40.

ARW went 8.38 AC 8.50am all quiet.

Ern made out the new rota during the night.  Bert & I are on duty Thursday 3^rd April besides taking our turn on the present rota next Sunday.  There’s only 5 days between.  Still maybe we will have a longer rest when the next rota is made out.  Went to Westminster library & got “Money for Nothing” P.G. Wodehouse.

Len & Bert came down in the evening & suggested that we go & see Max Miller in “Apple Sauce”^XXXIV tomorrow.  So were going.

Len saw the Sax chap he says it will be about £4.  What a bargain!

Bed 12.30

Saturday 29^th March 1941

Went to library after work & got “The Jovial Ghosts” Thorne Smith.

Then I went to the Palladium.  The only tickets left were for standing room so as I couldn’t get home in time to meet the boys I got 3 tickets.  I met the boys at 5 to 3.  We had tea in Lyons & then we went back to The Palladium.  “Apple Sauce” is quite a good show but I’ve seen better.  Old Maxie was good & Vera Lynn was all right but somehow the show just didn’t seem to go – or so it seemed to me.

We got home at 8.

ARW 9.6 to 9.22pm.  all quiet.

Had a bath before going to bed.

Sunday 30^th March 1941

Up 9am.

Went to school.  After Easter school will be held 6.30 to 8.30 in the evening so I’ll have to get time off from work twice a week.

After dinner Bert & I went down to Lens for a session.  We hadn’t started long before the woman who has moved next to them, & one of her daughters knocked & came in.  This mucked us up a bit cause the dame kept wanting to be shown our instruments, I went down to Lens again after tea & stayed till 9.30.

As I was firewatching with Bert from 2-6 I didn’t go to bed, I stayed awake all night & at 3.40 I was just thinking that I would soon be calling Bert & having a sleep – for we had arranged that we should have 2 hours sleep each – when the siren blew.  Time was 3.42am.  I had partly undressed & had to dash about pulling my things on & call Bert, I was ready in about 3 minutes & a few minutes after Bert came in.  The AC went at 3.56 after 14 mins of quiet.  We stayed talking till almost 5 & then I went to sleep.

Monday 31^st March 1941

Went to Westminster library & got “Uncle Fred In the Springtime” P.G. Wodehouse.  Went up Lens in the evening.

Tuesday 1^st April 1941

Went out in lunch hour & bought “Salome” it’s a bit blue but it’s a good tune.

Went up Lens in the evening.

Ern borrowed “Salome” to take to work tomorrow as they wanted the words of it, at the shop.  Miss B. learnt the words as well this afternoon.

I ordered a copy of “The Battle of Britain” to be sent home from the Stationery office.

Wednesday 2^nd April 1941

Bratt’s leaving on Saturday & today I had to go down to the courts with him because I shall have to do most of his work.  I can see myself making an awful bloomer over Grand Bldgs V Charing X.  Old Bratt said it is one of the most difficult cases he has come across & I have to see to the taxing of it.

Went to Westminster library & got “Murder in Man”  F. Duncan.^XXXV

In the evening Len, Bert & I went round to Arthur’s house & we are probably going to a dance he will be at on Saturday.

Miss Greenwood told me that she drew me a certificate last week.

Thursday 3^rd April 1941

My “B of B” came this morning.  It’s a natty little book.^XXXVI

Dad had the day off but it was marred by the fact that it is his turn for firewatching this afternoon.

ARW 12.23 to 12.33.  all quiet.

Bert & I went & saw Ted in the evening.  Went to see Len after.

ARW 10.30pm approx. AC 11.9pm, all quiet.

Friday 4^th April 1941

Spent most of the day dashing about with Bratt.

Stopped in in evening.

ARW 12.20am 1.5am heard plane before ARW & heard the guns in the distance once or twice.

ARW 10.1pm 10.57pm, all quiet.

Saturday 5^th April 1941

Bratt left today.  Went to Westminster library & got “Big Money” PG Wodehouse.

Bert & I went to the music shop I bought “Give me Something to Remember You By” & “Every Time I look at You.”

We met Len as we left the shop.  I went over to Woodmansee & bought a new hat.

In the evening me Bert & Len went to a dance at Faircross School Barking to see Arthur in action.  He had with him the Cymbal Arm he promised Bert, the band consisted of Drums, String, Bass & 2 accordions doubling piano & were they hot.  They had a perfect sense of timing, together & whether they were playing together or having their breaks they were damn good.

We came part of the way home with Arthur & one of the accordionists, the younger one, he was very interesting to talk to & he informed me that the easiest part of a P.A. to learn is the Bass side – I hope he’s right.

Sunday 6^th April 1941

Up 9.30 school at 10.15.

Last school till 6.30pm 28^th April

Just messed about all day.  In the evening Aunt Lillie & Joyce came over.

I had the gramophone going for a while.  They stayed very late.

Monday 7^th April 1941

Fairly busy at work.  It’s very peaceful without Bratt.  In the evening Freddie called, his girls thrown him over.  We went for a walk.  I think we’ll go out by ourselves Easter.

Bert has been very funny to me lately.  He’s been getting more & more attached to Len, & after the way I’ve helped him during the Blitz – having him in at night & stuffing him – and if it hadn’t been for me he wouldn’t have had his drum by now, & now he is sloping off with Len.  He doesn’t seem too eager to pay me back my £ either – but I’ll have it off him yet.

In a way I don’t really care if the band falls through because although I may not be able to join a band now or even form another there will be plenty of jobs after the war. 

Lens been getting a bit too insufferable lately – the Irish swine – maybe I’ll be better off if I go out with Freddie & we have good times like we used to.  Maybe if the others see that I don’t care what they do, they’ll alter their ways a bit as well.  Anyway Len can’t learn to play a Sax in a couple of weeks, & I don’t think we’ll ever be much good together.  Bert’s too mad on going barmy & making an unholy din & going to town & ragging & he doesn’t like any of the slower pieces & Len seems to be getting the same.  It’s all very well to be “hot” & rhythmic but you mustn’t forget that people want to dance – not spend all their time jitterbugging. Still as I’ve improved tremendously these last few months – and even in the last few weeks, there’s no reason why I shouldn’t get into a decent band or form my own band after the war.  After the way Bert & Len have been acting these last couple of weeks I shall have no compunction in deserting them; Freddie is a chap that you can be sure of though & if we do more after the war – as mum & dad want to it will hurt me more to part from Fred than it will the other two.

Fred & I went for a walk round & when we got back Aunt Lillie came over.  Freddie stopped till about 11.  He’s coming round Friday to help me clean up my bike & then we are going out over Easter.  ARW 10.30pm to 11.23pm all quiet.

After the AC I heard a couple of planes & some popping sounds in the distance.

ARW 11.57pm AC 5.2am

The raid was quiet mostly but the guns were fairly heavy once or twice.

Tuesday 8^th April 1941

ARW 10.1 to 12.13 all quiet.

City alarm was 11.59 to 12.12

Len & Bert came down & we had a practice.

ARW 10.2 to 4am.

Guns were rather heavy at times.

Wednesday 9^th April 1941

Went with Miss Ashton to Bush House to make a search.  I think we made a very good one.

Went to Peter Morris in lunch time & bought “20 Swing Hits”.

Went to Westminster Library & got “I don’t like Cats” L. Anson.

Freddie & I went to his girl’s house – or at least who used to be his girl – he went to see her Pop.  Mr Petty is very interesting to talk to & he’s a jolly decent fellow.  He used to be a drummer in a band and knows Arthur Thompson & all the band boys.  His band was one of the very earliest & he was interested in drumming & was a follower of dance music in the days when music as we know it was born.  He also used to go to the dances Walter’s band held & says he remembers them well & when I asked him what they were like he said they must have been good because many a band tried for their job & none took it from them.

I was supposed to be firewatching at 10 but it was turned ten before I left their place with Freddie.

Home 10.20pm

ARW 11.57pm – every time I’m on duty we have a raid.

Bert & I wrapped ourselves up & went out into the cold – it was damned cold too.

We were out all the time except for a couple of short intervals.  We stood talking to a copper for some time.

As soon as we came off duty the AC went, – it sounded at 2.10 just as I was getting into bed.

Thursday 10^th April 1941

Miss Joseph spent the afternoon at Park Crescent.  I’ve to go in on Saturday.

Friday 11^th April 1941

Up 1pm.  Freddie came & we mended my bike. When we had finished it looked smashing & goes better than ever before.  Then we went to Freddie’s Aunt at Barking.  Coming home Freddie got a puncture & he came home with me to mend it.

I had to buy a new tyre & a battery cost me 5/6d.

Saturday 12^th April 1941

Went to Park Crescent opened the letters & phoned Miss Joseph.  She said I had better go to Grand Bldgs.  Went there & phoned her again.  Home 11.15.

Bert & I went to music shop & I bought “Tumbling Tumbleweeds” “if you hadn’t Asked me to Dance” “The first Lullaby” “Charlie Kunz Waltz Medley” “50 Years of Song”.

After lunch I went to Freddie’s & I helped him to take his shed & his chemistry to his aunts at Barking where he’s going to live.  Home 10.30.

Walter called & asked me to help him with his car tomorrow.

Sunday 13^th April 1941

Up 9. Went to the garage.  Helped Walter till 1.30 then went home to dinner. Back to garage,  finished about 4.30.  Went to Walters house & had a bath & then stayed to tea.  Home 8.30

Walter was talking to a fellow at the garage & he said that Doris would have her baby next month.  This other fellow’s is in August. I haven’t got much longer to wait now before I’m an uncle.

Went down to Lens when I got home & stayed till 10.45.

I’m helping Walter again tomorrow.

Monday 14^th April 1941

Up 9.  Over Walters house at 9.45.  Walter & Doris were having breakfast.  Went to Garage.  Walter asked me to go to another garage & see if a fellow would do a job for him, he said he would, so when I got back Walter went over there & at the present moment I’m sitting in a car in the garage hoping Walter will be back soon cause I can’t stop hear all day.

Eventually left at 5 past 1.

I spent the afternoon reading.

Aunt Lily & Joyce came over after tea then Fred called & then Bert came along.  Aunt Lily & Joyce went about 11 & Fred & Bert went soon after. 

Bed 12.30

Ern was firewatching at the shop.

Tuesday 15^th April 1941

Got “Island of Terror” by Sapper from Westminster library.

Went to library when I got home Got “White Rider” L Charteris “Lost on Venus” ER Burroughs & I got a book about toolmaking for Ern.

We had a practice later on and Bert broke a part of the snares of his drum but I think he’ll be able to have it mended.

ARW 10.50 to 4.10am.  The raid soon became noisy & as the persons supposed to be firewatching didn’t turn out Ern & I went out for a while.

One of the firewatchers turned up about 11.30.

After a while we began to get long quiet intervals & I went to bed about 1.40.  At 2am I was brought downstairs by a thunderous knock on the door and went down & found this firewatcher there.  He said he couldn’t get any reply from the house he had to knock at.  Ern eventually stopped up all night.

Wednesday 16^th April 1941

ARW 9.5pm to 4.57am.  The raid began to get noisy about 9.30 & from then till about 4.30 you heard nothing but planes planes planes & guns guns guns.

The firewatcher didn’t turn up again, & the actual persons on duty were Ern me Bert Mr McGarry & Mr Case.  Mrs McGarry was in with us.  We had some of the heaviest gunfire ever & several flares & “Chandeliers” were dropped.  But after a while when it became apparent that he was heading for the City I came in & only went out for two short periods after that thought I was all ready for any emergencies.

We heard bombs dropping in the distance several times & the glow of distant fires.

Towards the end of the raid I was so tired – I had little sleep last night – that I went to sleep on the floor.  I went to bed after the AC but I have only a faint recollection of undressing – I must have been asleep on my feet.

Thursday 17^th April 1941

Up 9.10 left for work at 9.50.  I went by train to Cannon St & there I met Miss Bailey.  While waiting for a bus to get to work – the railway was closed to St James Park – later it was closed to South Kensington – she had had a few mines dropped near her house but that was all. 

There was plenty of glass strewn everywhere & when we did eventually catch a bus it hardly moved at all, the traffic was so dislocated, so we got out again & walked.  

Cannon St fire station had a very near miss – several people were killed in the station – & all round you could see bomb debris & firemen playing their hoses on burning buildings.

We had to walk over Southwark Bridge & back again over Blackfriars bridge.

The strand had it rather badly.  Opposite Aldwych a bomb was dropped & knocked a corner off a building & the same thing had happened to the first building in Aldwych.

A part of the Strand was roped off & from Duncannon St to the Civil Service Stores.  Part of Charring X hotel was alight & several other buildings were burning &/or had their fronts blown out by bombs.

When we eventually got to Grand Buildings Alf told us that Miss Joseph had been – it was almost 11.30 then – & as there was a time bomb outside the building & no-one was allowed in we had to go to Park Crescent.

We had to walk to Piccadilly to catch a train & then as we came out of Regents Park Station we saw overhead the trails of several planes – probably a reconnaissance – it was about 12.15 when we got to the house.

Miss Joseph had been in our office & brought away the post & some other things but she wanted me to go back to go to the bank & try to get in the office for some papers.  

I felt fit to drop then – how Ern went out to work looking as he always does beats me.  He must have a cast iron constitution.  I finally managed to get back to Grand Buildings. Alf said I could go in at my own risk & so I went in & got what was wanted & then rang dad.

He had just gone home though & I spoke to Mr Brown who was firewatching & told him what had happened & said he would let dad know I would probably be home late.

I managed to get to PC at about 2.15.  After lunch I had nothing to do, there was no reason really for me to stay & we all finally left at 5.40.

I managed to go by train from Regents Park to Charing X.  & as I came up the escalator water was dripping everywhere from the station above & I caught a bus outside. The bus took us over Westminster bridge & over Southwark bridge to Cannon St.  Mansion House was closed – We went by train to Whitechapel & had to change back to a bus – they had found some damage or some bombs during the day I suppose – & we caught a train from Bow Rd home.

Got home about 7.30.  Stopped in all night bed 11.15pm.

Friday 18^th April 1941

ARW 1.5am AC 2.15am All quiet

ARW 3.28am AC 4.50am all quiet.

Up 8.15.

Train Plaistow to Bow Rd Bus to Whitechapel Train to Cannon St Bus to Charring X.

Halifax House was burnt out & a bomb dropped just behind it.

The West End got what the City got last December – But the raid altogether was much worse.  A corner has been knocked off Admiralty Arch.

The office was open at 3pm yesterday. The bomb was on No 1 platform of Charing X station.

The hostel where the troops were was the Royal Empire Society in Northumberland Avenue.  I thought that was the place that was bombed & was right.  Everywhere you see marks where incendiary s dropped & there are hardly any sandbags left.  I left at 6.15 & was home about 7.35 travelling the same way as this morning.

Bert & I went down Lens for a while.

Saturday 19^th April 1941

Got to work same way as yesterday.  Home by Southern electric Charing X to Cannon St underground to Whitechapel.  Bus to Bow Rd train to Plaistow.  Len & I went to music shop I got “5 O’clock whistle” & “You’ll be far Better Off in a Home”.

Went to library to get “Thank you Jeeves” Wodehouse.

Had haircut.

ARW 9.22 soon got bad.  Fires were started towards Barking & some bombs were dropped near us.  Then 2 more.  Mrs Clay, Ivy, Joyce & Bert came in.  So did Mrs McGarry.  Ern came along with Terry.  The bombs dropped near Greengate St they said.  Ern Bert Mr McGarry Bob & I stopped out the front.  Dad stood at the back door.  Mrs Clay Ivy & Joyce went to Parkers Shelter.  The raid soon became very bad.  Mines were going off every few minutes & many bombs & D.As were dropping. Load after load of incendiaries were falling.  I think we saw a plane blow up in the air – it was either that or a crash & bits were seen floating through the air.  Most probably it was a plane.

 I spent my time going in and out.  Dad stopped out the back door & Ern Mr McGarry & Bob stayed in our porch & Reddin’s – their door had been blow open early on.  But was out most of the time.  We had switched off the light when it began to get bad.  About 12 there was a lull of a few minutes.  About 1 I laid down to get a bit of rest before I went on duty.  At 2 Bert & I commenced our firewatching.  Mines were still going off every few minutes once we saw what must have been the biggest of them all.  The glow lasted so long that we heard the explosion begin before it died away.

 Bob went over home later on & about 3 Mr McGarry went to bed.  He came out again shortly after but soon went back.  Bert had a stool in the passage & Ern & I sat on the stairs.  Ern went to sleep on me for a while.  It must have been his first doze for a couple of nights nearly.  I reckon he deserves a medal the way he goes on night after night.  I hope we don’t get many more raid like these or most people will be clearing off or doing something they can’t stand it for ever.  About 4 it began to get a bit light – actually it had been light all night from the fires but they were getting most of them under control in fact several were out at 4.  At 4.15 we had the last raider & at 4.48 am the A.C. went you saw plenty of people out then but during the raid only a few came out.  Dad Ern & I went for a walk round after the A.C. all the damage we saw thought were a few windows out – one of my bedroom windows had cracked much more than it was previously – and a few heaps of sand, the nearest being the school & the Broadway.  Samson St hospital & Southern Rd & the Post office by Samson St were hit by bombs though & a mine landed near there we think.  From 6 to 9 I dozed in a chair then Ern & I went to bed.  We heard a plane shortly after the A.C.

Sunday 20^th April 1941

Up 12.  In the afternoon Bert Len & I went to Manor Park to see Bert’s Aunt.  It rained when we were on our way home.  Good job we had our capes or we would have got soaked.

Dad was firewatching 5 to 7.30.  Mr Brett came down for the Firewatch Book.  Ern has got so fed up with the way the people of the road are carrying on the firewatching he has got some forms from the A.F.S. for them to sign if they sign they will have to do their duty or be reported to the A.F.S. who will take them up over it.  If they don’t sign we won’t have them as firewatchers & they may be conscripted.

Firefighting teams who sign will be issued with equipment fire watchers will be issued with some equipment.

Ern & I have signed our forms & Mr Brewtt has taken those of his party for them to sign.

Lile Joyce Harold & Edie came over.  Last night they were at Romford for Harold’s engagement to Edie.  Apparently they didn’t have much of a time because they had a bad raid there too last night.  About 10 we heard a plane & gunfire & Lily and the rest went home at 10.3 there was an alert till 10.14 which was all quiet.

Bert came in for a while Bed 11.30.

Monday 21^st April 1941

Got to work by train to Mansion Hse.  Bus to Charing X.  

ARW 9.57 am 

AC 10.5am

All quiet.

Miss Baily didn’t get in till 12.  A bomb landed on the opposite side of her road to her house & the house was very badly damaged & they have had to get out as it will be condemned – there are cracks on all the walls, no roof etc – she asked for the day off & of course Miss Joseph let her have it.  She was going on to her father’s office & then she was going home again.  They took best part of the furniture downstairs she said but when it rained yesterday it went right through to the downstairs.  So they covered it as best they could with lino.  Most of her clothes have been cut by glass & she said a door hit her as she was crouching & hurt her legs a bit.  Miss Joseph had to go out in the afternoon & I was by myself in the office.  Some of Doug Fairbanks Jnrs stuff had been brought here this morning & I looked through some of the books etc.  Miss Joseph didn’t get back to the office till 6.30.

I’m not going to the hospital tomorrow but Miss Joseph said that I could go next week.

Home 7.20

Stopped in reading.

ARW 9.55 AC 10.30 all quiet

Bed 11.30

Tuesday 22^nd April 1941

Work same way as yesterday.  Went to library & got “Sherlock Holmes Short Stories” A Conon Doyle.

ARW 12.18pm AC 12.36pm.  All quiet

Went up Lens in evening.

ARW 10.17 AC 11.53.

Guns at 10.15

Fairly quiet after.

---

I: Wikipedia
Pearson’s Magazine was a monthly periodical which first appeared in Britain in 1896. It specialised in speculative literature, political discussion, often of a socialist bent, and the arts. Its contributors included Upton Sinclair, George Bernard Shaw, Maxim Gorky, George Griffith, H. G. Wells, Dornford Yates and E. Phillips Oppenheim, many of whose short stories and novelettes first saw publication in Pearson’s. It was the first British periodical to publish a crossword puzzle, in February 1922. The magazine ceased publication in November 1939 after 527 issues.

II:  High Explosive

III: Still available on Amazon.  This is a book on basic chess strategy written by Dr. Max Euwe while he was World Chess Champion. Unlike so many subsequent books by Euwe, there is no co-author to this book. Euwe himself wrote this one.

IV:  Note from back of Diary F.M. Guedalla & Co., 201 Grand Buildings, Trafalgar SQ. W.C.2.

V: Wikipedia
Crown and Anchor is a simple dice game, traditionally played for gambling purposes by sailors in the Royal Navy, and also in the British merchant and fishing fleets.

VI: Wikipedia
Basin Street Blues is a song often performed by Dixieland jazz bands, written by Spencer Williams in 1928 and recorded that year by Louis Armstrong.  The verse with the lyric “Won’t you come along with me/To the Mississippi…” was later added by Glenn Miller and Jack Teagarden. The Basin Street of the title refers to the main street of Storyville, the red-light district of early 20th-century New Orleans, north of the French Quarter. It became a red light district in 1897.

VII: Wikipedia 
Tiger Rag” is a jazz standard, originally recorded and copyrighted by the Original Dixieland Jazz Band in 1917. It is one of the most recorded jazz compositions of all time

VIII:  Wikipedia
Darktown Strutters’ Ball is a popular song by Shelton Brooks, published in 1917. The song has been recorded many times and is considered a popular and jazz standard. There are many variations of the title, including “At the Darktown Strutters’ Ball”, “The Darktown Strutters’ Ball”, and just “Strutters’ Ball”.

IX:  Wikipedia
“Song of India” is a popular song adapted from the aria “Pesni︠a︡ indiĭskogo gosti︠a︡” from Rimsky-Korsakov‘s 1896 opera Sadko. In January 1937, Tommy Dorsey recorded an instrumental jazz arrangement featuring Bunny Berigan on trumpet, which became a jazz standard. Coupled with “Marie“, the 78 rpm disc was a major hit for Dorsey, containing two of his most enduring recordings on one record, and which helped make him and his band into a household name as a popular music artist in the United States

X: Wikipedia 
I Can’t Give You Anything but Love, Baby” is an American popular song and jazz standard by Jimmy McHugh (music) and Dorothy Fields (lyrics). The song was introduced by Adelaide Hall at Les Ambassadeurs Club in New York in January 1928 in Lew Leslie‘s Blackbird Revue, which opened on Broadway later that year as the highly successful Blackbirds of 1928 (518 performances), wherein it was performed by Adelaide Hall, Aida Ward, and Willard McLean.In the 100-most recorded songs from 1890 -1954, I Can’t Give You Anything But Love, Baby (1928) is No. 24. The song continues to appeal, including new cover versions in 2014 and 2016, and several uses in popular movies and plays since 2000

XI: Wikipedia
I’m Getting Sentimental Over You” is a song recorded by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra. The words were written by Ned Washington and the music was written by George Bassman. It was first performed in 1932. The original copyright is dated 1933 and issued to Lawrence Music Publishers, Inc. The copyright was assigned to Mills Music, Inc. in 1934. Noni Bernardi, a saxophonist with the Dorsey orchestra arranged this song. Dorsey was the featured trombone soloist when his orchestra played it. It was first recorded in September 1935. A second recording on October 18, 1935 is the exact arrangement that Tommy would henceforth feature. Frank Sinatra sang this song in the Dorsey Orchestra and also featured it in an album, I Remember Tommy, after Tommy Dorsey’s death in 1956.
This song was featured in an episode of The Twilight Zone called “Static“, and in the movie Bart Got a Room.The tempo is considered a fox trot or swing.

XII: Wikipedia
Twenty Thousand Streets Under the Sky is a trilogy of semi-autobiographical novels by Patrick Hamilton. 
The three books are The Midnight Bell (1929), The Siege of Pleasure (1932) and The Plains of Cement (1934). They focus on three of the people who populate The Midnight Bell pub in London; the stories interconnect.
The first book in particular contains autobiographical elements—Hamilton worked in London pubs before becoming a successful writer, was infatuated with a prostitute at that time, and eventually died of liver failure caused by alcoholism. The books are also notable for their portrayal of working class London in the inter-war period.

XIII: Thanks to Susan Hearne for ancestry research.  Florance Montefiore (AKA Judah) Guedalla July 1873 to 9^th September 1941.  Married May Flora 1^st June 1902.  The Guedalla family have Spanish Jewish origins with contacts in the West Indies and Southern States of America.  His cousin Philip was a famous barrister and writer, and his father Joseph was also a solicitor.

XIV: The Guardian   Richard Norton-Taylor Friday 26 August 2011 
I was not a Nazi collaborator, PG Wodehouse told MI5 
Creator of Jeeves was upset at British criticism of his wartime broadcasts from Berlin 
PG Wodehouse was questioned by MI5 as a suspected collaborator for broadcasting from Berlin during the second world war. The creator of Jeeves protested that he was shocked and dismayed at the criticism his broadcasts had provoked in Britain.
How the cosy world of Bertie Wooster collided with harsh reality is revealed in MI5 files released today at the National Archives. “I thought that people, hearing the talks, would admire me for having kept cheerful under difficult conditions,” he said in a statement for MI5 in 1944.
Wodehouse was living in France when war broke out. He was taken prisoner when Germany invaded and sent to an internment camp in the German town of Tost, Upper Silesia. He described how, “as he was playing in a cricket match” on 21 June 1941, he was told to pack his bags and was put on a train to Berlin.
He was put up at the city’s Adlon hotel, and was paid to make a series of broadcasts, mainly for American listeners, describing his life as an internee. He claimed he was motivated by gratitude over letters sent by fans from the US.
The Wodehouse files are among a number released at the National Archives on people regarded by MI5 as potential “British renegades”, including collaborators, stool pigeons and possible subversives.
After the Berlin broadcasts Wodehouse and his wife, Ethel, moved to Paris, where they stayed at German expense at the Bristol hotel. It was there that he was interrogated after the liberation of Paris.
He referred in his statement for MI5 to Wesley Stout, editor of the Saturday Evening Post, who had expressed concern about the impact of Wodehouse’s Berlin broadcasts on serialisations that the paper intended to publish. Stout had said Britons resented what they regarded as Wodehouse’s “callous attitude” towards England. “I cannot understand what you mean about callousness,” replied Wodehouse, according the statement he gave to MI5.
He said he was simply reflecting the “flippant, cheerful attitude of all British prisoners. It was a point of honour with us not to whine.”
Wodehouse had previously written: “If this is Upper Silesia, what on earth must Lower Silesia be like?”
The idea for the broadcasts came from Werner Plack, former member of staff at the German consulate in Los Angeles, who in 1940 returned to the German foreign office in Berlin. Wodehouse referred to Plack as “my Hollywood friend”. Wodehouse said in his MI5 statement that he was “greatly shocked” to be told that John Amery, brother of the Tory MP Julian Amery and later executed for treason, had recommended him to the German secret services “as a person who might be useful as a propagandist”.
Wodehouse said that, while interned at Tost, he completed his novel Joy in the Morning, and wrote Full Moon, Spring Fever, and Uncle Dynamite.
The writer told MI5: “I would like to conclude by saying that I never had any intention of assisting the enemy and that I have suffered a great deal of mental pain as the result of my action.”
MI5 decided that the broadcasts were not pro-German and had been unlikely to assist the enemy, and decided against prosecution.
However, a memo of a 1946 meeting between an M15 officer and the then director of public prosecutions, Sir Theobald Mathew, reveals that his case was re-evaluated after the war. “The director said that he now takes the view that, if Wodehouse ever comes to this country, he should be prosecuted,” the officer recorded.
Wodehouse moved to the US in 1945 and lived there until his death in 1975, aged 93.

XV: First published prior to 1922.  It was republished in 1982 and is available on Amazon. 
The Visible and Invisible in Pianoforte Technique: Being a Digest of the Author’s Technical Teachings Up to Date 1982 paperback reprint edition by Tobias Matthay (Author) 
Part of Blog by Neil Stannard:
Thursday, May 14, 2015
Considering the Visible and Invisible in Piano Technique, With Thanks to Tobias Matthay
Even without reading Matthay’s book, The Visible and Invisible in Piano Technique, much can be gleaned just from the title. It’s my favourite title, I think, in the library of rhetoric on piano technique. I say this because much of what comes down to us from those proverbial old wives has to do with what can be observed in the playing of others. 
Tobias Matthay, England’s Piano Sage

XVI: Wikipedia
Bofors 40 mm gun
The Bofors 40mm gun, often referred to simply as the Bofors gun, is an anti-aircraft/multi-purpose autocannon designed in the 1930s by the Swedish arms manufacturer AB Bofors. It was one of the most popular medium-weight anti-aircraft systems during World War II, used by most of the western Allies as well as by the Axis powers. A small number of these weapons remain in service to this day, and saw action as late as the Gulf War.
Bofors 40 mm/L60. This example includes the British-designed Stiffkey Sight, being operated by the gun layer standing on the right. The layer operates the trapeze seen above the sights, moving them to adjust for lead. The loader stands to the layer’s left, and the two trainer/aimers are sitting on either side of the gun.

XVII: RAF Commands forum
The meanings of Air Raid Warnings were as follows:
Yellow: Confidential preliminary warning.
Purple: Warning to extinguish all lighting.
Red: “Action Warning” on which sirens are sounded.
White: Cancels all previous warnings received.

XVIII: Wikipedia
A dance to waltz music in triple time.

XIX: Players cigarettes.

XX: Wikipedia
Field Marshal Archibald Percival Wavell, 1st Earl Wavell, GCB, GCSI, GCIE, CMG, MC, KStJ, PC (5 May 1883 – 24 May 1950) was a senior officer of the British Army. He served in the Second Boer War, the Bazar Valley Campaign and the Great War, during which he was wounded in the Second Battle of Ypres. He served in the Second World War, initially as Commander-in-Chief Middle East, in which role he led British forces to victory over the Italians in western Egypt and eastern Libya during Operation Compass in December 1940, only to be defeated by the German Army in the Western Desert in April 1941. He served as Commander-in-Chief, India, from July 1941 until June 1943 (apart from a brief tour as Commander of ABDACOM) and then served as Viceroy of India until his retirement in February 1947. 
Middle East Command
The Middle Eastern theatre was quiet for the first few months of the war until Italy’s declaration of war in June 1940. The Italian forces in North and East Africa greatly outnumbered the British and Wavell’s policy was therefore one of “flexible containment” to buy time to build up adequate forces to take the offensive. Having fallen back in front of Italian advances from Libya, Eritrea and Ethiopia, Wavell mounted successful offensives into Libya (Operation Compass) in December 1940 and Eritrea and Ethiopia in January 1941. By February 1941, his Western Desert Force under Lieutenant General Richard O’Connor had defeated the Italian Tenth Army at Beda Fomm taking 130,000 prisoners and appeared to be on the verge of overrunning the last Italian forces in Libya, which would have ended all direct Axis control in North Africa. His troops in East Africa also had the Italians under pressure and at the end of March his forces in Eritrea under William Platt won the decisive battle of the campaign at Keren which led to the occupation of the Italian colonies in Ethiopia and Somaliland.
Wavell (right) meets Lt. General Quinan, commander of British and Indian Army forces in Iraq in April 1941.However, in February Wavell had been ordered to halt his advance into Libya and send troops to Greece where the Germans and Italians were attacking. He disagreed with this decision but followed his orders. The result was a disaster. The Germans were given the opportunity to reinforce the Italians in North Africa with the Afrika Korps and by the end of April the weakened Western Desert Force had been pushed all the way back to the Egyptian border, leaving Tobruk under siege

XXI: Wikipedia
Vichy France is the common name of the French State headed by Marshal Philippe Pétain during World War II. It represents the unoccupied “Free Zone” in the southern part of metropolitan France and French North Africa.

XXII:  E. Temple Thurston (born Ernest Charles Temple Thurston, September 23, 1879 – March 19, 1933) was a British poet, playwright and author.

XXIII: Alfred Damon Runyon (October 4, 1880 – December 10, 1946 was an American newspaperman and short story writer.

XXIV: “Give Us the Tools to Finish the Job”  Winston Churchill’s radio broadcast of the 9th February 1941 was a particularly rousing affair. It was partly designed for his domestic audience, including British forces stationed around the world. Privately he considered the threat of invasion to Britain to be much diminished but he could not allow this perspective any publicity.
The speech was also an international appeal. He made clear the Nazi threat to the Balkans and to Russia itself, even while plans for these actual operations were closely guarded German secrets. By June Churchill would be passing definite intelligence on the German intention to invade Russia to Stalin.

XXV: Mrs Patrick Campbell (9 February 1865 – 9 April 1940), born Beatrice Stella Tanner and known informally as “Mrs Pat”, was an English stage actress.
During her first marriage, from which she took the name by which she is generally known, she gave birth to two children, Alan “Beo” Urquhart and Stella. Her first husband died in the Boer War in 1900.
Fourteen years later, Campbell became the second wife of George Cornwallis-West, a writer and soldier previously married to Jennie Jerome, the mother of Sir Winston Churchill. Notwithstanding her second marriage she continued to use the stage name “Mrs Patrick Campbell”.

XXVI: Dad continued to suffer with nose bleeds all his life and had his nose cauterised on more than one occasion.

XXVII: (HHARP)Historic Hospital Admissions Records Project
The Hospital Almoner
The Almoners’ Department was a pre-NHS forerunner of the Social Work Departments found in modern hospitals today. Such a department was first opened at Great Ormond Street in 1909.

XXVIII: Wikipedia
Boulton Paul Aircraft Ltd was a British aircraft manufacturer that was incorporated in 1934, although its origins in aircraft manufacturing began earlier in 1914 and lasted until 1961. The company mainly built and modified aircraft under contract to other manufacturers, but had a few notable designs of its own, such as the Defiant fighter and the Balliol trainer.

NB: Daily Express 30/1/41

FIRE BLITZ BACK: OUT !
Whistles call guards into action
Daily Express Staff Reporter

Wardens blew their whistles as fire-bomb warnings for the first time in London last night. In an instant men and women swarmed from their houses with sand and water.
They did brilliant work. Hundreds on hundreds of incendiaries showered down, but only two fires – both small- had to be dealt with by the A.F.A. The all clear sounded before midnight.
The raiders-after nine nights of lullabitz – were signalled before dusk, but none reached the London area for a long time.  
At last one Nazi got through to a London suburb, dropped flares and showers of fire-bombs on houses.
Wardens blew their whistles, and out came the householders, some with sand, some with water others with nothing but sticks.
They climbed on roof and through windows, over garden fences and up stairways.
Boys joined in, so did girls. One boy, too eager was injured and had to be taken to hospital.
“There were about six people to every bomb” said a warden.  “they were like wolves leaping on their prey.”
One of the two fires which had to be dealt with by the A.F.S. was in the roof of a church. Nobody else could reach it.
Other raiders were turned back on the outskirts by our night defences. They dropped their loads of fire-bombs among houses, but once again the new Fire Guards pounced on them.
Women carried baths of water to help the stirrup pumps, although the Germans were still overhead and dropping High Explosives.
In two districts on the outskirts of London high-explosive bombs wrecked shops and many houses. People were buried under their homes.
Rescue parties got everybody out, but several are severely injured.
The house of a medical officer in the grounds of a hospital was hit by a heavy calibre bomb, and three people are believed buried.
In a Thames Estuary town many people — including children – were trapped under the wreckage of their homes.  Three are known to be dead.
Other raiders were reported over a north-east  coast town. East Anglia and A west Country town. In East Anglia a railway fireman was wounded in the ribs by a machine-gun bullet from a raider.

XXIX: Wikipedia
John Gilbert Winant OM (February 23, 1889 – November 3, 1947) was an American politician with the Republican party after a brief career as a teacher.
In 1941, Roosevelt appointed Winant ambassador to Britain, and Winant remained in that post until he resigned in March 1946. In a 2010 book, Citizens of London: The Americans Who Stood with Britain in Its Darkest, Finest Hour, author Lynne Olson described Winant as dramatically changing the U.S. stance as ambassador when succeeding pro-appeasement ambassador Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr., Winant announced upon landing at Bristol, England, airport in March 1941, “I’m very glad to be here. There is no place I’d rather be at this time than in England.” The remark, for a country that had come through the Battle of Britain and was in the midst of The Blitz, was dramatically on the front page of most British newspapers the next day. The new ambassador quickly developed close contacts with King George VI and Prime Minister Winston Churchill, even though the U.S. was only providing military aid and had not yet declared war on the Axis. Winant, according to the book, had an affair with Churchill’s second daughter Sarah Churchill during this time.
Winant was with Winston Churchill when he learned that Pearl Harbour had been attacked.
“Boomps A Daisy” dance craze, 1939  (Pinterest)

XXX:  www.libraryofdance.org/dances/palais-glide/Dating back to the mid-1930s, the Palais Glide is an English sequence dance performed in lines of couples — an early, swing-era “line dance” of sorts.

XXXI: Wikipedia
Lawrence Wright (15 February 1888 – 19 May 1964) was a British popular music composer and publisher. He was born in Leicester and opened a music shop in the city in 1906. A short time later his first song, “Down By the Stream”, was published, and by 1912 he had established the Lawrence Wright Music Co in Denmark Street, London. Wright went on to write (or co-write) over 600 songs under his own name and as Horatio Nicholls, including the World War I propaganda song “Are We Downhearted? No!” and would receive an Ivor Novello Award in 1962 for Outstanding Contribution to British Popular Music. He was one of the very rare composers of popular music in this period to make a substantial amount of money – it had not been unusual to see composers who had written dozens of hits die in poverty.
His 1927 collaboration with Edgar Leslie, “Among My Souvenirs”, has been covered by artists including Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Judy Garland, and Connie Francis. Wright founded Melody Maker magazine in 1926. He moved to Blackpool in the early 1920s and became a show promoter. Running “On With the Show” on the North Pier for a record-breaking 32 years (1924 – 1956). He lived in a mock castle house, later called the Castle Casino, on Blackpool’s North Promenade. After he began using a wheelchair, he moved to a bungalow in Carlin Gate. Upon being recently sold, much memorabilia was discovered at the address including posters, bills, letters, sheet music and musical scores.

XXXII: Delayed Action bomb

XXXIII: Available on YouTube     –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q60pIny5WSo
https://www.combinedops.com/Lofoten_Islands_Raid.htm
~ LOFOTEN ISLANDS RAID ~
OPERATION CLAYMORE – 3/4 MAR 1941
Operation Claymore was the 1st Commando raid on the Lofoten Islands off the Norwegian coast, just north of the Arctic Circle. The Commandos destroyed German ships and factories producing fish oil and they gave free passage to the UK to over 300 Norwegian volunteers, a few Germans and quislings. It was, however, most notable for boosting flagging morale within the ranks of the Commandos and the country, as news of its success was made public.

XXXIV: maxmiller.org (The Max Miller Appreciation Society)
1940 (Aug to Nov) Holborn Empire & 1941 (Mar to Dec) London Palladium
Starred in Apple Sauce, a review that opened at the Holborn Empire and ran there until the theatre was bombed. It returned to continue its run at the London Palladium. Also appearing were Florence Desmond, Jack Stanford and Vera Lynn.

XXXV: Francis Duncan

XXXVI: The Official Air Ministry Account of The Battle of Britain from August-October 1940 published in March 1941. The copy is still among his war memorabilia

Book 24

Wednesday 23^rd April 1941

ARW 12.10 am

AC 12.25pm all quiet

Stopped in in evening & started to do an R.A.F. badge on glass.  Did a good bit of it.  About 11 I felt a bit giddy so I went to bed.

Dad got me a raincoat.

Thursday 24^th April 1941

Still felt a bit giddy when I got up. 

Didn’t feel too good at work.

I didn’t have any lunch.

Went up to Len’s for a while.

Friday 25^th April 1941

We are holding a meeting on Sunday at Cave Rd School to get the firewatchers to sign the forms Ern got.  Ern asked Joyce to type some notices about the meeting & tonight she brought them over & I took them round to every house where there was a firewatcher.

So they’ve got no excuse for not turning up.

Len is going to get the Sax tomorrow £4 down & £1 next week so I drew up 2 receipts for the £4 & £1 respectively.  I also lent Len 10/- towards the Sax.

Len & I had a duet “In the Mood” on the piano & doubt if we have ever done it so well – the thought of the Sax inspired us.

I did some more work on the R.A.F. badge & now I’ve nearly finished the painting.

Saturday 26^th April 1941

Went to music shop & got “The Bad Humour Man” & “The Victory Arms” then Len Bert & I went for the Sax.  We got a couple of reeds on the way & we also passed a music shop.  I got “I can’t get Indiana off my Mind” & a couple of old ones – they had a stash of old music at 2d per copy – “At the Bathing Parade” & “Daytime Cowboy Joe.”

Then we got the Sax.  It wants a good clean up but it’s ok otherwise.  Len Bert & I could all get a note from it but nothing more.

The trains ran right through today.  The main damage seems to be between Temple & Charing X where a couple of bombs broke the roadway & blocked the rails & water got on the lines.  ARW 11.46 AC 1am all quiet.

Sunday 27^th April 1941

About 15 turned up for the meeting.  There was an Inspector there & he explained about the forms & all there signed them.  We got 10 helmets & arm bands later in the evening & Ern got all but a couple of the other forms signed.

The helmets are of good steel but the linings lousy.  Bert & I took ours – we had first issue as we are fire-fighters – firewatchers get theirs later – to show Len & his mother.  We had a practice as well.

Len can play a couple of tunes & when we swung out on “Tuxedo Junction” you would have thought we were “pro” almost.

Monday 28^th April 1941

Left the office at 5.15.

I got one of the illustrated Battle of Britain’s^I today.

Len & I went to school we had to pay,  3/-

I’m doing Book-keeping Monday and Hobbies Wednesday.  Len is doing Hobbies Wednesday & Shorthand & typing Friday.

Ern got the last 2 forms signed tonight & they will go to the fire station tomorrow.

Bert got some thick sponge rubber from work & gave me some for my helmet.

Miss Joseph told me I was getting another rise.

Tuesday 29^th April 1941

Went to hospital.  Got some medicine.  I’m not going any more. Home 12.

I spent the afternoon improving my helmet I put a pad in the crown & some small pieces at the side.  It is much better now.

Bert & I went up Lens for a while.

Wednesday 30^th April 1941

Len & I went to night school but we were the only ones, & when a teacher did come he said that so far as he knew the class was cancelled.

Len & I went to see Syd.  We stopped some time & there is going to be a party in 3 Saturdays time & maybe that will be the start of some more dances.

Len came indoors for a little while.

Went to bed at 12.40.

Thursday 1^st May 1941

Some of Glasgow Rd people are joining on our fire watching rota.

Aunt Lily & Joyce came over & stopped till turned ten

Friday 2^nd May 1941

Got my rise today.  Get now £1.15.0.  Gave Dad a £1.

While at lunch I got some chain for my RAF badge.

Saturday 3^rd May 1941

Went to music & got “Let’s have another One” 1/- . I didn’t get home till 2.30 from work as Kennett had the day off & I had to go to Park Crescent & Claridge’s Hotel.  There’s going to be a row between me & Kennett Monday.  

I had a bath & mended a puncture on my bike.

ARW 10.25pm.

We heard guns & planes occasionally. Mrs McGarry came in with us.

Tonight we had to alter the clocks another hour so we are 2 hours in front of G.M.T. & thus the raid only lasted 3 hrs 43 mins although the AC didn’t go till 3.8am.

I typed this morning some notices about the Fire Watching collection were starting.

Sunday 4^th May 1941

Up 10.30.

Len Bert & I were going to Walters to get some wood for a trap tray.  I wanted to go early but Bert didn’t get up till 12 & Len couldn’t go till 1.

About 12 mum asked me to clear away the debris & earth, from the bomb in the road that was outside aunt Lilies.

I did that & was talking to Doris until Len came along.  It was turned 1 when we were ready to start so all we did was phone Walter & find that he would be in this afternoon then we had dinner.

After dinner we went over to Walters.

I got a piece of wood for the trap tray & some staples that I want.  Then we went for a ride round.  Home 6.  After tea we had a practice & Len is not doing too bad with his Sax.

Len & Doris were with us for some time & I think well have Doris as croonette with us.

ARW 11.50 4.18am.  Bed 1 am.

ARW was quiet mostly but at 4 gunfire was terrific.

Monday 5^th May 1941

Up late got to work at 10.30.

When I told Miss Bayley about Saturday she didn’t like it & later on in the day she asked Miss Joseph if we could have Saturdays off & CJ is going to see what she can do for us.

Left office at 5.10. 

I went to Jaggs when I got home & got the clips for the RAF badge & so I’m all set to finish it.

Went to school.  Mr Richards asked me to take his pen to get it mended.  When I came home I saw Len & we had a time together. 

I got all the silver paper on the glass tonight & it’s all ready to assemble.  Ern was at his shop fire watching.  

ARW 11.13pm till 11.41pm.

Just before the siren & as it sounded I heard guns in the distance.  Quiet after.

Bed 11.40

Tuesday 6^th May 1941

While at lunch I bought myself an eye shield.

I had to sort some files in the storeroom & I’ve ripped the knee of my trousers.  That has finished the suit completely now, it was bad enough before.

When I got home mum told me that Doris went to the home this morning & she was expecting news any time.

Uncle Albert came this afternoon & he’s been bombed out.  The 19^th April apparently.

A bomb fell & the blast caught his place.  He is storing his furniture next door & tomorrow he is going to go down to Flora & the children.  He left a photo’ of them & the only ones I would recognise if I saw would be Flora or Iris, the others have completely altered.

Len & I went for a ride round from 7.30 to 9.30.  We went round Wanstead & the Park.

Dad & I did the fire watching tonight as the others couldn’t do it.  

Walter called about 10.30 & said they were expecting it in the morning.

When mum went to bed I started on my RAF badge but I smudged the paint & I will have to do a bit of it again & that will put me back a day probably.

ARW 11.47 to 11.57

All quiet.

At 10 to 1 a plane came over & the guns fired on it but there was no alert.  Dad went to bed about 1.40.

When I went along at 2 I found the others out waiting for me.

I suggested to Ern that we get several eye shields from the funds but I don’t know whether he will or not.

Bed 2.15.

Wednesday 7^th May 1941

No news when I left home.

When I got home dad said, “You’re an Aunt”.  I had hoped it would be a boy but it’s a girl & they are going to call it Beryl Elizabeth.

I don’t like the Beryl part but still its Walter & Doris’s baby.^II

We had a practice at Lens house.

Ern was fire watching on the street tonight.

Thursday 8^th May 1941

At 2.5 a plane came over at 2.22 the guns fired.

Told them up the office I was an uncle.

Stopped in & read in evening.

At 11.58pm the ARW went. We were all downstairs & we all dozed off.  The planes kept coming over the guns were going.  I woke at 1 am & soon after Dad & I went to bed, mum & Ern came up later.

The A.C. went 4.10am.  The planes were almost continuous & the guns were fairly heavy at times.

I sent a letter to Freddie asking him to come over.

Friday 9^th May 1941

Len & I went to Hobbies class this evening.  Mr Archer is teacher & as we are the only 2 we go in another class & we can do anything we like.  We did some painting.

Walter came over.

Saturday 10^th May 1941

Home fairly late.  I went to the Premier & saw Arthur Askey in “The Ghost Train”.  Also saw Bob Crosby & his band in “Let’s Make Music” & a short “Home Guard”.

When I got home Mum said Freddie had called, he had not had my letter.  He wants me to ring him Monday.

I finished my R.A.F. badge tonight.  It’s not too bad.

ARW 11.2pm.

Planes were coming over in droves & between 11 & 12 the whistles tooted.  I was reading in the kitchen but I was fully equipped & decked out blowing my whistle for the first time.

The nearest to us was in 44 Tweedmouth Rd the rest were some distance away.  All but Mr McGarry & myself dashed up there we stopped back in case any more fell.

There were crowds at the house & the fire was out in about 10 minutes.  I went in after a while & then only came out now & again.  Once while I was out 3 bombs fell quite close & we saw the smoke ”mushroom” very clearly because it was light as day almost, as the moon was full.  One of those bombs landed on the opposite corner to Aunt Lilies old house & it’s in a hell of a mess Lillie told us later in the day. 

Bert was on duty from 2 till 6 with the old boy from Hodgkin’s & Woods.  About 4 he came in & said he wanted to see his people in Parkers shelter for a few minutes so I offered to watch for him.

I said, “you won’t be long will you” Bert replied, “no I’ll only be a minute” & then as he went he said, “I won’t be long”.

I naturally thought he wouldn’t be long & as time went on I wondered where he was so I went down to Parkers.  Mr Parker was outside & he said Bert was sitting by the fire.

That annoyed me.  If Bert wanted a warm he could have gone indoors for a while, but when he says “I won’t be a minute” then sits by the fire nearly an hour I don’t like it.

I suppose he was annoyed because we weren’t on together this rota & thought he’d make me do his watch.  The planes were buzzing about up to a short while before the AC which went at 5.52am.

Sunday 11^th May 1941

Had a sleep from 6 to 11.

Dinner at 12.  Mum & Dad left for Walters at 1.  I had a bath.

Les came over in the afternoon.  He Ern & I burnt the incendiary bomb that Freddie & I made.  It burnt quickly & gave off terrific clouds of grey smoke.

Walter brought Mum home in the car.  They had dropped Dad at the shop to do his firewatching.  Mum said that Beryl is a lovely kid & has a very strong pair of lungs.

 I took Dad round some tea & then Mr Wells & I messed about with the table tennis stuff & had a game.

Len came home (he went to Edgware over the weekend) & he said that they had a fine view of the great London Fires.

It’s going to be a bit of a job to get to work tomorrow.  Len had the same as we did during the raid.  – one incendiary on a house.

ARW 9.52 AC 10.9  all quiet.

ARW 11.58pm bed 12.30

The raid was fairly noisy sometimes.  AC 3.47am.

Monday 12^th May 1941

ARW 5.3am AC 5.38am quiet mostly.  Up 8.  Left house at 9.

Went from Plaistow to Bromley by train then caught bus to Aldgate East.  The damage along the Mile End Road was terrific.  The bus dumped us at Aldgate & then we had to cross the city as best we could because the buses only started at Charring X again & went to South Kensington. 

I made my way to Liverpool St Station & dodged the long queue & got on the Central line to Oxford Circus & then caught the Bakerloo to Trafalgar Square. I got in at 10.30

Houses of Parliament Westminster Abbey & Westminster Hall were all badly damaged.

The Temple had a bad pounding & several courts & buildings are burned & flattened out.  When I went to the Temple I had to go under the Cloisters to get to where I wanted & they had been burned – in fact they were still smouldering & looked as if they would collapse any minute.

I went out another way – even though it meant going near a time bomb to save going under Cloisters again.

I went down to Ludgate Circus – all along the order is no smoking – so many gas mains are burst.  All around Ludgate Circus was a shambles & the terrific smell was still heavy about.  Many places I saw still burning.

I went to Chancery Lane & got a book for the firewatching accounts a Firewatch logbook.

Went to Westminster Library & got “Stars & Stripes” Maurice Dekobra.^III

The Bakerloo was very crowded going home & the Central Line was even worse.  A girl fainted on to me at Tottenham Court Rd & while I held her another girl undid the neck of her dress & another woman fanned her with my paper, & we got her out at Holborn.

Home at 6.15pm 

Went to school.

Gave Mr Richards his pen.  Saw Len & Bert & Terry.

ARW 11.42pm 

AC 1.50am the raid was fairly noisy sometimes.

Bed 1.20am

Tuesday 13^th May 1941

Got to work by train to Liverpool St Central to Oxford Circus, Bakerloo to Trafalgar Square.  Took 1.1/4 hours.

Home at 7.10

Stepney Green Station is in a bit of a mess but we stopped there going home although going, we passed it.

Len Bert & I went to see Syd.  We are going to be there at 6 on Saturday.

Afterwards we went up Lens for a while.  Leslie came over & paid me for the books & paid Ern for some torches & whistles he got.

Wednesday 14^th May 1941

Trains are running to Mansion House but I had to get out at Monument, go to Bank & get the Northern Line to Elephant & Castle & then got out Trafalgar Square by Bakerloo.

I went to the taxation of Charing X news theatre today.  It was very educative and interesting but I reckon Bratts ears were burning, he didn’t half get slated for the way the bills were drawn.

We didn’t do too badly thought.

Came home the same way as I went.

Len & Bert came in for a while & later I went down Lens.

Thursday 15^th May 1941

Went all the way to Charring X by District although some stations further on are still closed.

Went to Westminster Library & got “Bill the Conqueror” by P.G. Wodehouse.

Trains were not running in the evening & I got home by Northern Line Charing X – Tottenham Ct Rd 

Central Tottenham Ct Road – Bank 

District Monument – Plaistow.

Went downs Lens for a practice.

Friday 16^th May 1941

ARW 3.18 am AC 4.18am quiet mostly.

Travelling was o.k. today.

Len & I went to night school.

Went to Taxation of Keith Prowse today.  We didn’t do so well, but still, we will probably get some more out of them yet.

ARW 11.55 AC 4.35am rather noisy at times.

Saturday 17^th May 1941

Miss Bailey had the day off.  Left the office at 1. Went to library & got “When the World Shook” R. Haggard.

“Code of the Wooster’s” P.G. Wodehouse & “The Hand of Fear” Verner.

Got “I Got 6d” & “ I L-L-Love you so” at the music shop.

I wanted to get my hair cut but all the places were full.

Freddie was going to see me this afternoon but he rang up & said he wouldn’t come but would see me Wednesday.

In the evening Len, Bert & I went round Credon Rd but as Syd had been busy all the week no-one had bothered about the dance & so about 6 people turned up & they wouldn’t dance so we packed up, & spoke our minds, an argument started then but we stopped the argument & arranged that a dance will be held next Saturday.  Tickets in advance & all money to go to War Weapons Week & we are to see them again Monday.  They had a sweep at Woodmansee’s.  Dad bought me 3 tickets & won me a sewing certificate.

Sunday 18^th May 1941

Up early, had bath.

In afternoon, Len & I decided to go rowing over Whipps Cross when we got there, we found a queue waiting for boats so we went over to Wanstead Park but we found another queue there.  We had a ride in the park.

A good few bombs have dropped there & everywhere you go you can see traces of incendiaries.  We dug up part of one & one night we are going there with forks & trowels to get several.

In the evening I went down Lens.

He doesn’t like the first Clipper ship model he built, so just for a bit of fun, we put matchheads in it, soaked it in petrol & put it in a bowl of water & set fire to it.  We had drawn the blackout & it looked very realistic.  We’ve decided to make a model especially for that purpose & we made a list of things we would want.

We had a game of table tennis at Woodmansee’s while dad was firewatching there.

We saw Terry & Bert later.  Terry had some machine-gun bullets & we undid one & got the cordite out.  I kept a few sticks to put in the boat.

Monday 19^th May 1941

Len had taken the pieces of incendiary to work to get it unscrewed, he brought it back to me this evening.  Len, Bert & I went to see Syd.  

If it is fine on Saturday the dance will be in the playground & Bert has got a job for us at the E.L.C.C.A.S. on Friday.  Ivy’s pal Dolly actually got it for us.  If we are good enough we may get a definite job there twice a week.

We went in Lens home for a while.  

When I got home I worked out a programme for the dances.

Tuesday 20^th May 1941

We had a practice at Lens house in the evening.  Then we went over to West Ham Park & saw a Home Guard display.  It was good as well – bayonet charging, drilling, field wireless & machine gunning, signalling etc.

Wednesday 21^st May 1941

I practiced all evening.  Len came down for a while. Did some book-keeping.

I was Firewatch with Bert from 10-2.

Bed 2.20am

Thursday 22^nd May 1941

I nearly finished the store-room today.

Went to library & got “15 years a Store Detective” H.N. Cooper.

In the evening we had a practice & then Len & I went over to Wanstead to see the mimic battle.

When it was over we met Ern & as we were walking past the pond Ern said “Look! There’s mum & dad getting in the car”, so I ran to Walters to stop the car & get a lift, but when I got there I found mum & dad getting on a bus and Walter was standing by his car.  

When Ern & Len came up we went in to see Beryl.  She is very tiny & she has got a strong pair of lungs.

Friday 23^rd May 1941

We put a double amount in the savings group this week.

During lunch I went to see Mr Buttle.  Fenton House is in a terrible state & although Thurley are still there you have to go down what is left of Billiter St go up some stairs, go over the fire escape & go through some ruined offices to get to where they are.  They are in different rooms now.

I saw the typist when I got there & when I asked for Mr Buttle she didn’t seem to know what or who I was talking about & asked if I had come to the right office.  So I asked for Mr Cureton & she said he was at lunch.  She said I could stay to see him (I told her I used to work there) but I said I wouldn’t wait & asked her to remember me to him.  Apparently then Mr Buttle has left, Miss Purser has left,  Mr Cureton is in Fenton House Mr Simpson is at Fenton House, Mr Collins is at Amersham, Mr Thurley I don’t know about.  I’ll have to go there again soon.

Mum & Dad went to the pictures. We went to the dance.  It wasn’t very good.  They were a mod lot & wanted nothing but swing & jitterbugging. I played the piano at the beginning & the finish & another bloke played in between. Len won a good torch in a raffle.

Saturday 24^th May 1941

Had to go to Claridge’s.  Home 7.45.

All the hairdressers were full so I still haven’t got my hair cut.  Went to music shop with Len & got “Over the Hill” “America I Love you” “Along the Santa Fe Trail” “When they sound the Last All Clear”.

Mum & Dad are going down to Laindon tomorrow to look at a Bungalow Dad is thinking of buying.

We got round the school at 6.20.  We started the dance at 7. Joe’s Pro brother was home on leave & he played till 9 with us.  Then he did an accordion solo & then he had to go.  We felt on form although we were going to finish at 10.30 we stayed till 12.15am. They were clapping & cheering us & encore after encore was played.  We’ve never been so popular and I think one of the reasons is that there was more “body” in the band as Len was playing the P.A. instead of the xylophone. 

The Rev. Councillor Painton was there & I accompanied a couple of his songs.  At the end of the dance we suggested to Syd that we have more dances & that we are paid.  He agreed & we are going to see him during the week.

I hope we have some more dances because we were getting on fine with a couple of bits of fluff.

We eventually left about 12.45am.

Dad tried to get on the phone to Walter several times tonight to get some petrol for the trip to Laindon tomorrow, but he couldn’t get through.

Sunday 25^th May 1941

Up 10.am.

I went up the phone box to get Walter on the phone & I even dialled the operator but there was no reply from the phone.  Mum thought they had all gone out but I said that the office girl might not have put the phone through went she left yesterday.  After breakfast I cycled round to Fred Cottrell’s place, (he is taking Dad & Mum) to see if he had got any petrol extra, but he hadn’t so I went on to Walters.

Rose let me in as Doris was bathing Beryl.

Walter was out on a job & Doris couldn’t let me have any petrol but she suggested I go to the Apex garage where Walter gets his petrol & see if they would let me have some.

I rode home & told Dad & he gave me a card of his to give them at the garage & see if they would let me have any petrol.

I went to the garage, – & found it shut. 

While I was at Walters, Rose looked to see if they had put the phone through when I suggested it. I was right – it hadn’t been put thought.

I went & saw Doris again but she couldn’t suggest anything.  I saw Dad again & then went to Fred’s house.

I saw Margaret & as I was telling her I couldn’t get any petrol she saw Jim Simpson & when she spoke to him he said he could let them have 2 gallons.  So everything was alright – or so we thought.  But just after dinner Margaret came round to say that while Fred was bringing the car home the back spring broke.

They thought they wouldn’t be able to go but I dashed up to the station & brought a timetable & took it home.  There was a train at 3.5 at Plaistow, so I dashed round to Woodmansee’s so that Fred (who was firewatching) would get to Upton Park Station in time. 

Actually I was round the shop till 7.20. & I had to cycle home through all the rain & I got soaked.

Len & Bert collected the drums & P.A. from the school, we left them there because we were too tired to carry them (But didn’t bring the drums, it was too much).

Had tea when I got in.

Mum & Dad came in about 9.50.  They were lyrical over the bungalow & Dad is going to buy it if he possibly can.  He is going to speak to the owner tomorrow.  There is a nice long garden & we will be able to make a putting green there.

Water & electricity are not laid on yet but the only reason they aren’t is because of the war, it was just going to be done when the war started.  Dad is going to have it altered a bit but from what he says it will be a lovely week-end residence until he retires and goes to live down there.  I hope he gets it.  If he does we are going there Whitsun Monday .  Bed 1 am.

Monday 26^th May 1941

Bought “1^st P.M. album of 20 song hits”. 

Left early. Home 6pm.

Went to night school. Saw Len after school.  I knocked for Bert he had just brought his drums home with Syd.  Syd said that the dance raised nearly £10.  Dad spoke to the owner of the bungalow today & he is going down with him on Sunday to have a good look round & to discuss the price.  Walter came over.

Tuesday 27^th May 1941

Lovely at work, – I didn’t have much to do, – which was a great change.

In the evening I saw Len & Bert & practiced the piano.

Wednesday 28^th May 1941

I went to Thurley’s & saw Mr Cureton & Mr Simpson.  I stayed there a long time.  We just spoke about the blitz etc. until Simpson went out then Cureton said that Simpson had bought out Thurley & is now the boss.  I recon there was a row myself, Cureton said Buttle was working at Amersham & then Thurley got him a job recently at the United Kingdom Commercial Corporation.  Mr Collins works at Amersham & only comes in very rarely.  Miss Purser is working for another firm at Amersham.  After leaving Cureton I went to the UK CC in Plantation house but TEB was at lunch.

When I got home I wrote a letter to Freddie asking him to meet me at Laindon Station on Sunday.  Ern is going to come.

I went & saw Len for a while & we had a practice.

Thursday 29^th May 1941

I went to see Mr Buttle during my lunch hour but he was again at lunch.  In the afternoon I managed to get Fred on the phone & explained to him about Sunday.

Bert Len & I went to Syd in the evening.  The next dance is on June 14, & on the 21^st there is a wedding there & they want us to play.

We had a game of table tennis & then we came home.

Friday 30^th May 1941

Great dashing about in the morning at the office from 10 onwards.

Charles & Mr Savage (the witnesses in Slater) arrived.  Miss Joseph rolled in at 10 past 10 & Charles then finds a mistake in his proof much telephoning then goes on but about 11 EJ Charles & Mr Savage go to the court & we’re left in peace, we’ve just been reading or doing what we like.

Miss Joseph & Charles came back about 12.30.  We got the decree nisi.

Len & I went to school in the evening.  When we finished Len came down home & we had a practice.

Saturday 31^st May 1941

Got up at 11am.

I had a bath in the afternoon.  In the evening Len & I went to the Odeon & saw Artie Shaw & his band in “Second Chorus”.  Jolly good film. Also saw “Crook’s Tour”.

Sunday 1^st June 1941

Messed about all day till 5 & then Len & I went round Woodmansee’s while dad was firewatching & played table Tennis.  Bert went out for the day.

Len & I went for a walk about 8.

Mums sister Alice came round.

I lent Len my music.

Monday 2^nd June 1941

Up 8.  ARW 12.5am AC 3.15, heard a few planes.

Ern & I left for the station at 9.10.  I ordered my season ticket.  When we got to Laindon we couldn’t see Freddie so we thought we’d walk part of the way, we went the wrong way, when we got back to the station we met Freddie, he had got there a bit late.  We went to his bungalow.

We left there about 1 am.  Freddie and a pal of his escorted us & between us we found our way to our bungalow. 

We had a look round the outside (Mr Springhall didn’t leave the key when he went after seeing dad).  The view is wonderful we are on the crest of a hill & below us are fields & in the distance a blur where it merges into the outskirts of London.  It was a bit misty so we couldn’t get the real beauty of the view but on a clear day it must be wonderful.  The name is “Highland View” & the road is called Hillcrest Avenue.

The plot is 210 feet by 44 ft & it inclines slightly, the bungalow is at the back, which is the top of the incline, when Freddie & his pal left we had lunch with Mr Scott of “Killarney” in First Avenue. 

When we had finished lunch I went back to our place, when I got there I found our next door neighbours (Mr & Mrs Crockett) in our Garden.  Mr Crockett was digging some ground & Mrs Crockett was mowing the grass.  Mrs Crockett asked me if I would like to have a try at mowing.  I did so & found it hard work, so I went & fetched Ern & the 2 of us started mowing.  After a while they all came round & Fred Cottrell Ern & I were all mowing in turns.

Mr & Mrs Crockett said that after Mr Springhall left the bungalow they didn’t want the garden to look uncared-for so they did a bit of work there.  

We seem to have decent neighbours one side of us anyway, although on the other side, the people don’t seem up to much.

It’s alright for me, the Crockett’s have 4 children – the 2 eldest are girls aged 15 & 14 & the 15 year old doesn’t look too bad.

We did a good bit before we went & had tea.

After tea Mr Scott showed us two musical boxes she has, one is over 200 years old & is priceless, it is a marvellous piece of work.

Book 25

Monday 2^nd June Contd

After tea we went back & did some more mowing.

When we left we had almost finished the lawn.  We caught the 9.7 train home & were in by 10.  I didn’t get a seat till East Ham, the train was so crowded.  Ern got a seat though.

Joyce & Doris brought the rent over.

Dad is going to get us to do the conveyance.  Bed 12.30 am.

Tuesday 3^rd June 1941

It rained all day & I had to be out most of the time & I felt thoroughly fed up when I got home.

I got my music back from Lens house, he had gone to the pictures.

Bert went & saw Syd.

I went to the library & got “The Lost World” K. Vincent

“The Secret Formula”  “Alias the Ghost” Verner

When Bert came back I told him “We’ve got another job now, a dance at Russell School fairly soon”.

We went & saw Len & arranged to have a practice tomorrow night and on Thursday we will have a rehearsal round Credon Road.

I was firewatching so I didn’t go to bed.

Bert came in at 2 & we sorted the music into the different dances.  Although we didn’t finish duty till 5 we packed up at 4.30 as it was getting light. 

I pulled up the blinds & went to sleep in the chair.

Wednesday 4^th June 1941

Woke up at 8.30.

It was very hot today, in fact it was too hot to walk about, luckily I didn’t have to go out much.

I left early, about 5.45 home 6.30.

I arranged for Dad & Mr Springhall to come up on Friday.

Bert & Len came down & we had a practice but I didn’t feel like it, none of us did, it was too hot, so we packed up the stuff & took it round the post, so that it would be ready for us to go round there tomorrow night.

Thursday 5^th June 1941

Went to Westminster library & got “Travellers Club Tales”.

I went to see Mr Buttle.  Eric has been injured but he is o.k. now & is flying again.

They don’t seem to have had much air raid damage, Mr Buttle said their worst night was 29^th November when 11 bombs were dropped round him & he couldn’t find an exit from where he was but had to climb over heaps of rubble.

Altogether over 200 people were killed & several hundred injured in their locality that night.

I think Simpson gave Buttle the push, I know T.E.B. is rather sore about it.  Mr Thorley got him his present job & Mr Thurley is now with Sagma at 110 Fenchurch St.  I thanked Mr Buttle for my reference.  He wants me to keep in touch with him, & I shall do because I reckon T.E.B. is a very decent chap.

In the evening we went round to the post & had an impromptu dance, there were quite a few there & we are going to go round every Thursday. I had a couple of games of snooker.

ARW 12.10am to 3.15am.  It got noisy a couple of times.

Friday 6^th June 1941

In the evening Len Bert & I went round the post & played snooker & table tennis.  Went up Lens house.

Albert came home on 11 days leave about 11 pm.

Reg Powder stayed the night with us.  I stopped up till 2am talking with Reg and Ern.

ARW 9.22am AC 9.37am.  All quiet.

Saturday 7^th June 1941

Heard guns at 2am. Len went swimming in the afternoon & skating in the evening so Bert & I went round the post for a while.

I had my haircut in the afternoon, while I was at the barbers Freddie came in, mum had told him where I was.

Sunday 8^th June 1941

Up 12.30

Ern started his holiday, Bert is on holiday as well.  Bert went to a wedding job that Joe got for him. Len & I went round the post & played snooker.  From there we went to Dads shop & played table tennis.

When we got home we saw Bert & we went to the post to collect the accordion.  We saw Syd.  He is taking lessons on the accordion & he wants it left there. We told him we want 7/6 for Saturday’s dance.

Home 10.30.

Dads birthday today. He is 57.

Monday 9^th June 1941

Nothing much at work.  Went to night school in evening.

Tuesday 10^th June

Went to library & got “Unknown Essex” Donald Maxwell.

We went round the post in the evening & had a practice & played a game of snooker.

Wednesday 11^th June 1941

I did a lot of work today & have cleared up Slater so that we have only to wait till time for the absolute.

Mums 55^th birthday today. I got her some roses.

Ern came round the post in the evening & played a game of snooker, then Ern, me Bert & Len went round the Black Lion & played a game there.

Thursday 12^th June 1941

I joined the library in Duncannon St. It’s called the Red Triangle Library.  Got “Money Buys Anything” R. Vickers.

ARW 12.15am to 4 am very noisy at times.

Went to the post in the evening. Played till 10 then Ern Bert & I played Snooker till 12.15.  bed 1.

Friday 13^th June 1941

I practiced the piano in the evening & swapped stamps with a chap from night school.  Stayed up till 12.30 doing a X word puzzles.

Saturday 14^th June 1941

Miss Joseph asked me to find out if dad wants her to write to Mr Springhall about the bungalow. Its 8 days since he came up & we should have heard.

I practiced in the afternoon.

We went round the school at 6,0pm & got ready.

The dance didnt really start till 7.15. we were lousy before the interval. Les & Doris came.

After the interval Mum & Dad turned up & we improved greatly & when we finished we were nearly as good as the last dance.  Syd  is after another Job for us.

Left the dance at 12.15

Bed 1am.

ARW 1.15 to 3.30 fairly noisy at times.

Sunday 15^th June 1941

Up 12.

Went round the school at 4 to collect our kit & the money.  We arranged to see Syd again on Tuesday.

Les & Doris invited us to a party tonight, while they were at the dance.  Ern, Len Bert & I went over about 6.15.  Mum & Dad came later.  There were about 24 there in the finish.  We had quite a decent time.  Albert & I took turns at the piano & Len had the P.A.  Bert had his side drum.  We tried to teach Doris the P.A. & when we came away she could play it a little bit but she said it made her arm tired.

Left at 1am.

Bed 1.30am.

Monday 16^th June 1941

Bought music while at lunch.  

Calliope Jane

Amapola

Does she love me

Let’s be Buddies

Never Mind

The Swan.

I went to night school.

Aunt Lillie & Aunt Alice came over. I saw Len.

Bert & I were firewatching.  Bert came in with me.

Ern & Joyce had gone to see Albert off.

Ern came in at 12.30.  He had just brought Joyce home & Alberts train left at 9.20.

Ern gave her a night out.  He took her to a Corner House & then to Wards Irish House and a couple of other places.  I certainly would have liked to have been with them.

Ern stayed up & finally we went to bed about 2.45am.  

During our watch we heard one plane.

Tuesday 17^th June 1941

Up 9.15

Got to work at 10.15

Went to library in evening & got “The Devil Came to Leoon” “The Pocket Hercules” E. Jepson.

Ern Bert Terry & I went round the Post. Len came round about 8. We all left at 9.30.  Les Doris & Joyce came over & we were all at the gate talking for a couple of hours.

Bed 12.15

Wednesday 18^th June 1941

We’ve got a weapon at last then.  As long as this Radio locator works O.K. I’m not going to bother, like some people will, to try to work out what it is.^IV

Stopped in all evening sorting stamps.

Bed 12.20

Thursday 19^th June 1941

Dad had a letter from Springall.  So did we.  He sent us a copy of the Abstract of Title.  But we want more than that so we wrote to him.

Stayed in all night sorting stamps.

Bed 12.15.

Ern finished his holiday.  Lillie Joyce & Rose came over in the evening.

Friday 20^th June 1941

We started stamp club at night school.

Mum & Dad have decided to go down to Laindon on Sunday.

Dad saw Springall today & Springall said he is going to get his stuff out of the bungalow tomorrow.

Saturday 21^st June 1941

Longest day of the year.

Miss Bailey is having today Monday & Tuesday off as her boy has to join the R.A.F. Wednesday.

Left the office at 12.45.  Had a bath in the afternoon.  Freddie came, he arranged to meet us at Laindon Station tomorrow.

Ern is going to take Joyce with us tomorrow.  Walter & Doris are going to come down in the afternoon.

Sunday 22^nd June 1941

We all caught the 9.8 train & arrived at Laindon at 9.48. Freddie was not at the station so as I knew there was a definite reason for him to be late we went on.  Freddie caught us up when we were nearly to the bungalow.  He had overslept himself.

There were 6 of us then.  Dad, Mum, Ern Joyce Freddie and I.

Freddie & I measured up the bungalow so that we would have an idea of what furniture we can take.

Then we all laid on the lawn for a while.  We had a picnic lunch on the lawn

Ern Joyce & I caught a lovely colour in the afternoon.

Mum Dad & Fred kept in the shade more.  Even so Freddie had a colour when he left us.  Joyce Ern Fred & I had a game with the putting sticks, knocking the ball from one to another.  At 3.40 Ern Joyce Fred & I went to meet Walter & Doris.  We were nearly at the arterial Road when we met them so we had a ride back.  Walter went halfway up the hill & then Ern & I carried the baby in its cot the rest of the way.  It was the most uncomfortable walk we ever had.  I was bending nearly double to keep the sun from Beryl & daren’t trip over & the sun was beating down on us – the sun only went in once the whole day & then only for about 30 seconds. – we eventually got the baby to the bungalow.  Walter later brought the car up to the gate.

We left at 8 & we all came home by car but altogether we had a very enjoyable day & I hope my colour lasts till next week so that I can improve it.  Next time I go down I shall wear shorts.  My flannels were sticking to my legs.

Bed 12.30.

Monday 23^rd June 1941

Miss Rubens came from the other office to work here while N.B. is away.

Went to night school, afterwards I bought some stamps off a fellow, for 5/-.  There are some good ones there as well.  Then I saw Len & changed stamps with him.

I bought “Flinging a Whing-Ding” today.  

Bed 12.30.

ARW 1.30 to 3am fairly quiet.

Tuesday 24^th June 1941

Went to library & got “Thrilling the Million” T. Stenner.

Stopped in all night.

Rang up Freddie during the day & asked him if I could borrow his stamp catalogue. He is going to bring to me tomorrow.

Wednesday 25^th June 1941

Freddie was at home when I got home. He had brought the catalogue.  Len, Freddie & I went round the school & played Snooker. I lent Freddie a Piano Accordion Tutor.

I’m going to stay with him over the week-end.

Thursday 26^th June 1941

Went into the city during my lunch hour & bought myself a stamp album.

In the evening we went round the post and stayed till nearly 11.

Friday 27^th June 1941

Went to Westminster library & got “Mulliner Nights” P.J. Wodehouse.

In the evening I went to school.  Mr Galbraith brought some stamps for us.

ARW 1.30 AC 2.15am.  fairly quiet mostly.

Saturday 28^th June 1941

I didn’t have to go in today.  Up 9. 

Had a bath. At 1 pm Freddie called & he & I left to go to his place for the weekend.  We caught the 1.30 from Barking.

About 3 we went for a ride round to our bungalow.  When we left we met the 2 Crockett Girls & went into the village with them.  In the evening Freddie his pal & I rode about 20 miles on our bikes.

Bed 10.30.

Sunday 29^th June 1941

Up 10.30.

Freddie & I left to go to our place about 3.  It is much more cheerful now, mum brought some curtains down & put at the windows.  We have brought down several other things as well.

Freddie & I mowed the lawn.  Mum took a lovely bunch of roses home with her.  We caught the 8.45 train home.

When we got home I saw Bert & he showed me a smashing extract from a book.

Stan brought the extract when he came home yesterday. He said he may send Bert some more down.  I hope he does.  I’m going to copy it tomorrow at work.  Ern wants one I want one & Bert wants a couple.

Monday 30^th June 1941

I made 5 copies at work today of the extract.

When I went to night school I showed it to all the boys & some of them want me to make them copies of it.

When I got home I sorted my stamps.

During my lunch hour I went down in the city to try and find a stamp shop I used to know that sold stamps by the bag.  But I couldn’t find it, I think that it has been bombed.

Went to library & got “The Ebony Torso”

I was firewatching from 2 till 5.

Tuesday 1^st July 1941

I went into the city again to try & find that shop but I’m sure it’s been bombed.

I felt lousy all day as I only got about 3 hours sleep last night.

Practiced piano in evening.

Went to Plaistow Library got “The Pocket Hercules” & “The Backsliders” E Jepsen & “Race the Sun”.

Wednesday 2nd July 1941

We suggested to E.J. today that as P.C. have not got much work, 1 of the girls can come down & work with us, she seemed quite taken with the idea & I hope she’ll act on it.

Len & I had a practice.

Thursday 3^rd July 1941

Mrs Secker came down from P.C. today to help us & we were able to leave at 5.15.

Home at 6.

Mum & Dad were at the pictures.  Len, Bert & I had a practice.

Bed 12.

Aunt Lilie moved today to Homerton.

Friday 4^th July 1941

Independence Day.

During my lunch I bought “He wears a Pair of Silver Wings” “Yes My Darling Daughter” & Dixieland Selection”.

Went to night school.

Saturday 5^th July 1941

Had a bath in the afternoon.

We left home at 6.45.

The party started about 7.45.  We had a fine time & we met a chap who could play alto & tenor & he sat in with us.  It sounded class.

The food display was marvellous for war time.  Sandwiches of different kinds, cakes, jellies, all kinds of drinks.

They brought me a shandy & I drank it before I knew what it was, so I can’t say I haven’t drank beer now.

Mark’s daughter was there & about 2am she started talking to us & soon we drifted out into the playground.  There were quite a few couples out there at different times.  Unluckily Mark came out soon after us, but if he hadn’t I reckon I would have done something I haven’t done before. 

We finally got home about 2.45am.

Sunday 6^th July 1941

Up 11am. I didn’t go out all day but just messed about doing whatever I fancied.

Went to bed about 11.30

Monday 7^th July 1941

Up 8.30.

Went to library & got “The Education of Hyman Kaplan” by Leonard Q. Ross.^V

Went to school in evening.

Tuesday 8^th July 1941

Terrifically hot.

Messed about all evening.  It was too hot to do anything really.

Wednesday 9^th July 1941

I went round by the post about 9.45.  I stopped till about 10.30 when Len came round on his bike.  One of the wardens had said that Sid wanted to see us.  So we went round his house but we missed him.  We went back to the school & saw him there.  He said that a chap from the Radical Club wanted us to play there on Saturdays & Sundays from 8 to 11pm.  Sid wants to see us tomorrow night when we have seen Bert & he will know then when we can see this chap ourselves. 

Len is on his holidays & Len is going away over the weekend but after he had seen his Pop he said he would stay here & go to the dance if he had gone away we were going to see if one of the Bishfords would do the job.

Thursday 10^th July 1941

Put in a good day’s work at the Registry, in Crowford.

Went to the post in evening with Bert.  We accepted the job at £1 Sats & £15/- Sundays starting this week.

Friday 11^th July 1941

Went to Library & got “City of Cobros” J.F. Doyer

Went to school in evening. 

Freddie called.

Saturday 12^th July 1941

Left the office at 1.

Uncle Albert called in the afternoon he had Abby with him, it’s the first time Abby has been in London for about 2 years.

Mum was out when they arrived & they had to go before she got back as they were catching a train from Paddington that got them to Bradford-on-Avon about 10.  Uncle Albert said he would probably be coming up again in 8 weeks’ time.

Went to library & got “Three men on the Brummell” J.K. Jerome & “Barradige detects E Jepson. 

We had a terrific storm in the evening – one of the worst for years – but it cleared up before we left to go to the Radical Club.

We got there just before 8, the first bus we tried to get on, the conductor wouldn’t let us bring the drums on.  But the 2^nd bus had a clippie & she didn’t mind.  Soon after we had started playing a chap turned up & said he was the pianist at the club.  He had a saxophone with him & he played that mostly but he played the piano a bit.  We got on quite well.  There were some sailors there on leave.  Their boat was in dock being repaired after having a bomb down its funnel.  They are a minesweeping crew.  They were together before the war on a trawler.  There’re skipper was there and he was as bad as the rest of them.  We managed to give them a good time thought.

Home just after 12.

Sunday 13^th July 1941

Bert & I did our firewatching.  Bert went in at 2.15. Ern was asleep in the chair, I had wakened Mr McGarry.

I didn’t want to go to sleep but I did & when I woke up it was 6am.  I called Ern & the 2 of us started to get ready to go to Laindon.

Mum & Dad got up & eventually as Ern wasn’t ready I went by myself.  I just caught the 7.12 train from Upminster.  

Got to bungalow about 7.45.

I changed into shorts & messed about generally.  Mum Dad & Ern came down by the 9.8 train.

We all did a lot of work.  The bungalow now looks neater & we got rid of all the clumps of weeds in front of the house & have dug up a strip by the fence at the bottom of the garden.

We also smoothed out one side of the house so that now we only have the other side & the back of the house to get under control & we will be able to mow all the grass easily.

I left at 6.15.  I caught the 6.52 train & got to the club at 7.45.  by the time the others arrived I had all the kit set up.  We did quite well on the whole but I myself didn’t do so well as last night, probably because I was tired & my hands were sore.  We got paid tonight, & Mr Skiff the entertainments manager wants me to go to his house & learn some of his songs so that I can accompany him.

Got home about 12.30.

Monday 14^th July 1941

I felt lousy most of the day.

During my lunch I bought “Boo Hooray” “I love my Work” “The Road that leads to Home” “Sergeant Selby” & “The Medley Book” I also bought “Sympathy” for Bert.

Night school finished tonight.

I went to The Club.  We played till 12.25.  Bert had his side drum skin broken by the vibration of the mike & had to play on the bottom skin all night.

The sailors kept sober although it was their last night & we had a jolly good time.  Home at 1.

Tuesday 15^th July 1941

At the club there was a girl who sang a waltz called “If I had my Way”.  I wanted to buy it but when I went to F.D.H. they told me that it had not been published.  So I will have to see the girl next time we go & ask her if she would write it out for me.  It is a very lovely waltz.

Len & I went to the Club on our bikes & brought home the Piano accordion.

Len had some friends in his house so we gave them a tune.

Went to library & got “ 2^nd century of detective Stories”.

Wednesday 16^th July 1941

Len & I went over Walters & borrowed his music stand.  I stayed with Len for a while.  Home 11.30

Thursday 17^th July 1941

Len & Bert came in for a while. Len & I went round to post for an hour.

Friday 18^th July 1941

Went to last night of school. Saw Len afterwards,

I had to go to Ealing this afternoon.  Mr Guedalla is seriously ill & EJ is moving heaven & earth to get Gerald home & I had to take a doctor’s certificate & a letter from the Law Society to Wing Comdr Collins, Gerald’s superior officer who had just returned from Iceland.  We are trying to get him leave & then we will put through an application for his release.  

Went to library & got “Tales of Dread”.

Saturday 19^th July 1941

Got home at 2.

Len came down to say he has broken his sax.  He broke the octave lever & also a piece of the top but he thinks he can get it mended.

Len & I went round to the shop that Len knows to see the sax but it had gone but he had some clarinets there, so we saw them.  I’m going to buy one of them – it will cost £4/10/-.  I shall probably get it on Monday week.

About 6 it started to pour of rain.  Mum suddenly said “Dad has not got a coat or umbrella with him” so I dashed off on the bike with our umbrella.  I got to the shop & as I’m crossing the road I catch the tramlines & over I go. I took a lump out of my hand, my knee & my trousers.

I couldn’t go to the club or do much at all as my fingers were all numb.

The others were alright thought because the Sax chap played the piano.

Sunday 20^th July 1941

Went to Laindon by the 9.8 train.  I didn’t do a great deal of work but I cleared one side of the garden of all the big tall weeds & got down part of one side of the house.

At the end of the week looking back on what we have done I think we are considerably nearer getting the bungalow.

Freddie & his pal came up just as I was leaving & they came to the station with me. I caught the 6.52.

We were on form tonight & the same fellow brought his clarinet & played it occasionally.

I saw Mr Shipp about me not turning up last night but he said it was O.K. & I was paid in full.

Home 12.

Monday 21^st July 1941

In the evening Len Bert & I went round the Post.

Later we went & saw Arthur Thompson.  He was in bed with Sciatica.  We went in & saw him & stayed talking for about an hour.

It cheered him up for he said that he was absolutely browned off.  As for us, we got a lot of tips from him.  When we came home we stood talking to Joyce & Queenie for a long while. 

Home 11.30 bed 12.

Tuesday 22^nd July 1941

Len got his sax mended.

Len Bert & I went round & saw Mr Earles.  We stopped about 4 hrs telling dirty jokes.  Mrs Earles is going to have a baby.

Ronnie Earles showed us some of his drawings.  He is a smashing artist.

He may buy a guitar & join us.  We are going to see him Thursday and take him round the school.  He wrote a tune a couple of years ago & we are going to play it for him.  One of Bert’s friends is coming over as well on Thursday.

Bed 11.45.

Wednesday 23^rd July 1941

I left the office at 5.45.  We got round Cumberland Road at 7.30. We arranged to play till 11 for 22/6d.  At the end of the second dance the secretary came up & gave me 25/-.

We were on form !!!! it was one of our best dances.

Syd & Mark came later on.

We packed up at 10.30.  Stopped in Lens for a while.  Home 11.40

Thursday 24^th July 1941

Done more work today than I have done for a long time.

I brought home the contract for Dad to sign.

Bert & 2 of his pals, Len me & Mr & Mrs Earles went round the school.  Mr Earles tune is quite good.  When he comes back from his holidays he is going to come round & I will write it down.

He is going to buy a guitar and join us.

Home 11.

Friday 25^th July 1941

Bought a clarinet tutor today.

I was firewatching from 2-5 this morning & today I had a lot of walking & it was very hot so when I got home I was just about dead beat.

Miss Bagley started her holidays tonight.  I went for a walk round & called at Miss Elson’s and I’ve arranged to go there next Friday.

She said, “bring all your old stuff”  Old stuff be damned, I’ll show her something when I get started.

All I want to learn is how to fill in with the right , how to put accompaniments to tunes of more than 4 bs or 2#s. & how to get a quick left hand for Quickstep – & also how to play real boogie-woogie.

I shall buy my Clarry tomorrow.

Saturday 26^th July 1941

I bought my Clarry & a reed.  I borrowed 2/6 from Ern as it left me on the rocks.

When I got to Erns shop Joyce was there.

I practiced on the clary & could blow it fairly well.  Mum only said, “A fool & his money – “ & Dad said, “Do you think you’ll be able to play it”.

Went to the Club.  We did fairly well.  Allan Wilson said that he thought it was stiff & I tried it & found it much easier to blow.

Home 12.

Bed 12.30

Sunday 27^th July 1941

I wasn’t going to Laindon today but when mum & Dad woke up they found it was raining so none of us went.

Ern lent me another 7/6.

I can get a good few notes now on the Clarry.

When I showed it to Lens pop he said that it was stiff so I shall take it to Boosey & Hawkes tomorrow & get some advice about it.

Ern is getting on well with it too.

Len came down in the afternoon.

Len & I went to see Syd but he wasn’t at the post.

We were more on form tonight than last night at the club.

One of the blokes at the club is going to do a strip tease next Saturday at the club – of course he won’t go right down but he will do it.

We spoke to the girl who sings “If I had my Way” & she said a friend of hers had it & it was published by Felix McGlennon, I’ll try & get it tomorrow but I thought that McGlennon’s closed down a long while ago because you never hear of them now.

Ern is coming to the club next week.

Bed 1am.

Book 26

Monday 28^th July 1941

ARW at 1.45am to 3.50am.

I was woken up at 2 by dad because Mum wanted to get up as they were dropping mines & incendiaries.

We all came downstairs & Mrs McGarry came in. 

The raid was just fairly noisy and about 3 a fire was started at Stratford.  A.C. went at 3.50 after a lull of about ¾ of an hour.

I was very busy at work all day. I went to try & get “If I Had My Way” & finally tracked it to Campbell Connelly.  They said they would have it if anybody, but it hadn’t been sent to them from America so it had not & never would be published here.

Boosey & Hawkes said that the Clarry was alright but the mouthpiece was lousy.

The chap I saw had been playing Clarrys for years & he said that if I got a new mouthpiece I would find a difference.  He tried another mouthpiece & there was an entirely different tone.  I could see they didn’t want the job of altering the present mouthpiece so I said I will try to get it altered locally so I shall probably take it to the Essex Musical Store.

Miss Joseph wanted to know what I had in the case & when I told her a clarinet she said it was her favourite wind instrument.  She spoke to me about it for a long while & it is surprising the amount she knew about music.  She hopes I get on well with it.

I saw Len & Stan in the evening & told them what had happened.

Len is going to take the Clarry to the Essex Store tomorrow & see if they will do it.

Bed 12.30.

Tuesday 29^th July 1941

Len couldn’t take my Clarry tonight but he will try again tomorrow.

Len & I were going to see Syd, when I saw a fellow I thought I knew, he thought he knew me & eventually we found that he had seen us at Russell school when we were playing to the soldiers.

He gave us the meeting place of the Ilford & East Ham Rhythm Club – Herbert’s at the Boleyn they meet every Tuesday at 7.30.  We may go next week.

Syd wasn’t at the Post so Len & I played snooker & table tennis.

Home 10.15

Wednesday 30^th July 1941

Len took my Clarry to the Essex.

He said that someone had been trying to alter it to suit themselves & had spoilt it.  He said that even if the mouthpiece was repaired it would go again but he could let me have a new mouthpiece for 15/-.  Of course, shopkeepers are always after the big penny but I think I will get a new mouthpiece.  I should have a spare as well then.

The octave lever on Lens Sax broke again so we mended it as best we could. Bert went for his first drum lesson from Butch.  He seemed rather discouraged when he came home, I think he is realising how much he has to learn as yet.

Mum ordered some stuff for the bungalow.  She and Dad are going down tomorrow to let Mr Crockett have the key so that the stuff can be put in our bungalow.

Thursday 31^st July 1941

Mum & Dad went to Laindon Len & I went round the school in the evening & saw Syd

Home 9.30

Mum & Dad said they would have liked to have stopped at the bungalow.

Friday 1^st August 1941

Miss Joseph went to Nottingham for the weekend and as she went about 3.15 we packed up about 4.  I got home at 4.45.

I went to music tonight.  Miss Elsom picked out every tune I couldn’t play except “The Johnson Rag” & I didn’t have the heart to tell her I was in a band after the poor showing I put up.  

Bert got a record of Joe Loss playing “In the Mood” & “Woodchoppers Ball” & Victor Sylvester playing “Amapola” & “There goes that song again”.

They are smashing records I may play “In the Mood”.

Saturday 2^nd August 1941

Bert & I got our hair cut in the morning. Len & I went to the Essex Store & I bought a new mouthpiece & cleaning stick & some oil for my clarinet.

The new mouthpiece is a bit easier to blow.

Ern came to the Club with us.  We had a damn good time.  Mac did his strip tease as promised and was he good.  It was one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen.

Home 12.

I went to the library & got “Red Sea Nights” by W J Makin” & “In search of the Mahatmas of Tibet”

Sunday 3^rd August 1941

Up 12.

In the afternoon Len Bert & I all listened to one another’s records.

Went to the club.  The girl who sung “if I had my way” was there (we found that her name is Miss Angel). She sang for us.  I told her that we couldn’t get “If I had My Way” & she promised to try to get it for us from a friend of hers who used to be in Jack Payne’s Band.  Of course he had the orchestration.

We are wanted up there tomorrow night. There will only be the 3 of us as Wilson can’t turn up.  Home 12.15

Monday 4^th August 1941

Up 7.20

We caught the 8.20 to Laindon.

The lino & stuff was in the bungalow.  Dad & Ern laid the lino while I cut the grass.  It was a fortnight since it was last cut & it was ever such hard work to get it down. I finished it about 5.15.  Dad & Ern had the lino laid and altogether it looked more shipshape.

We had tea & about 5.45 it started to pour with rain.  I had just finished in time.  I caught the 6.50 train home.  While I went to the station the rain eased up a bit but Ern said that it rained very hard again after.

I got to Plaistow about 7.40 & you could hardly see through the rain it was so heavy.  I tried to dash from doorway to doorway & wait while it was extremely heavy & dodge through it when it stopped a bit.  When I got to Lens & knocked at his door I was soaked through & my boots squelched as I walked because there was so much water in them.  Lens uncle said that Len went to Bert’s about 7.

I dashed down to Bert’s & saw Mrs Clay.  She said that they had gone about 10 minutes before.  I dashed indoors and changed & went to the club. I got there at 8.20.  We were all agreed that we deserved about 7/6 for coming through the rain tonight.  It was the hardest rain I’ve seen for years.  The storm we had about 2 weeks ago was nothing to this.  We did well and we packed up about 11.15.  We asked if the piano could be put on the stage next week so that we could have the benefit of the mike.

Will Shipp had gone & some old boy called me in the office & gave me £2/10/- & asked if I was satisfied.  I didn’t know who he was so I said that we wanted to see Mr Shipp actually, because we had broken our holiday to get here & had had to come through all the rain but it would do.

I thought the old boy was someone Will Shipp had left the money with for us.  I saw Len & Bert & they were mad about it like I was so we went and saw the old boy again & explained that we thought we deserved more than 15/- for tonight.  He then told us that he was Mr Payne the Secretary of the club & he said we were to leave it to him & he would see to it for us.  He was very pleasant over it so all’s well that ends well.  I had seen this nice old boy dodging about but I didn’t know who he was but now we do & I think he is a very nice old boy.

I asked Dad today if a chap named Bert Angel I had heard him speak of had a daughter about 20 years old & told him about Miss Angel at the club.  Dad said that he might have & that if she was Bert Angels daughter she lived in Humberstone Rd.  So I shall try to find out more about her from someone.

A chap up there tonight sang a song called Dandy Don.  It’s an old Ragtime number about 30 years old, but if ever a tune was meant for swing it’s that one so I shall try to get it & make a modern swing number of it.  I may call it Dandy Don goes to town.

Tuesday 5^th August 1941

I went up Lens house in the evening.  Bert went to see Butch.

Len & I transposed a couple of songs & played them over.  If Len continues with his Sax like he was tonight he will be playing it in the band in about a week or so.  I’m not so dusty on the Clarry myself now, either.  I can play some tunes on it.  I went home about 11.20.

Bed 12.

Wednesday 6^th August 1941

I bought 3 new reeds today.  I got 2 manuscript books for writing out tunes & bought also “Dolores” & “The Hut Sut Song”^VI

We went to the dance in the evening, we did very well.  Packed up at 10.30.  Syd was there.  We gave him 100 cigarettes we had got for him for all that he has done for us.

Thursday 7^th August 1941

Went up Lens in the evening.  We transposed several more tunes.  I stopped till 11.30.  Mum & Dad spent a busy time sorting out stuff to go to Laindon on Monday.

Friday 8^th August 1941

I finished work for a fortnight.

I went to music.  Afterwards Len Bert & I went round to Mr Eades house.  He has got his guitar.

I bought today “Pretty Little Busybody” “20 Good Old Songs” ”20 Chorus Songs” “Victor Sylvester’s Waltz Medley” & “Victor Sylvester’s Quickstep Medley”.  & also the orchestration “Handy Tunes”.

We hadn’t been round long before Syd knocked at the door.  He had found where we were from our people & had come round to us in a car.  He had been at Poplar Trolley Bus Depot at a dance & the Band hadn’t turned up so he had offered to see if we would come.  I don’t suppose we would have done for anyone but Syd but we all piled in the car dashed home & got our kit & piled back in the car.  The Bass Drum had to go on the roof & we looked like a tank going along.

We soon got started once we got there & boy oh boy were we in the mood. I don’t think we’ve ever played so well.  We were going to get 7/6d for doing it.  We had a vote of thanks in the interval & when we finished I was handed — 30/- for us.  —10/- each for less than 2 hours work. & they will probably have us at their next dance.

My raincoat which I left in the car went down to Dagenham but I can collect it from Credon Rd Post on tomorrow or Sunday.

Saturday 9^th August 1941

Bert got me Joe Loss’s record of “In the Mood”.  Bert’s pal Denis & Johnson came over in the afternoon & we had some fun on all the different instruments in Lens house.

We went to the club in the evening.  

Home 12.

We have to alter the clocks this evening.

Sunday 10^th August 1941

Up at 8.  Had a bath.  Bert went to Rainham.

In the afternoon I went to get my coat & Len went to the pictures.  I stayed round the post for 3 hours.  

Syd & I had a heart to heart talk about dozens of things.  He is going to give us a rehearsal one night in the near future.

I never knew Syd had so many sides to his character until after we had had this talk.

After tea I saw Bert & we ferreted out the tune of “If I had my Way”.

So we now have the words & music of it.  Bert brought back several pieces of fairly old music.

We went up the club.

We got the extra 7/6 we wanted for last week.  Miss Angel ok’d the tune so we know we’ve got it right.

Monday 11^th August 1941

Up at 7.40

I packed all my stuff.  It rained heavily.

Mr Stansell arrived with the van at 11.  Dad He & I loaded all the stuff on the van.  At 12 I rung up Miss Joseph she wants me to come up on Wednesday so I shall stop for the dance as well.

I travelled in the back of the van.

I didn’t feel too good when we stopped at the Halfway House for a drink.  I had got all the smells & all the bumps upset me so I didn’t have anything to drink.

It was terribly muddy when we got to 2^nd Avenue & Stansell came in the wrong way & got bogged & so we were faced with the heart breaking job of carrying all the stuff piece by piece to the bungalow over a ¼ of a mile away.  It took us 6 hrs & we would never have finished then if it hadn’t been for the Crockett’s & Mrs Scott.

I think it was the worst job I’ve ever had.  No one who hasn’t seen 2^nd Avenue on a muddy day can imagine what a task we had.

Once we were finished we didn’t do much else & we went to bed at 10.

Tuesday 12^th August 1941

We got the bedrooms and best room straight today & I took a couple of photos’ of the bungalow.

I started digging up one side of the garden today.

Actually I’m writing this on the 18^th and I can’t remember much of what I did.  But every day was crowded .  Last Saturday I rang Miss J. about the bungalow & she told me to ring DEW&C to find when they would complete & when I rang them they said Mr Iles was on holiday & could not complete before the 26^th.

Wednesday 13^th august 1941

I came up for the dance tonight. I called in Erns shop to get a handle for our pickaxe.  I rang up EJ from Erns place and told her about the completion.

We had a hell of a good time at the dance.  Syd Mark & Bert were there.

I slept at home tonight.

Thursday 14^th August 1941

Caught 9.30 train, at bungalow at 10.50.

I did some more digging today.

The bungalow looks smashing now we are settled.

I went over to Freddie’s bungalow for a while in the afternoon, they have got a smashing garden now.  The weather this week has been very funny.  Wet & then fine wet & fine & so on.  But today we had grand weather.

We took some more photos’

I stayed out till after dark finishing digging up one side of the garden but I did it.

Friday 15^th august 1941

Mum went up town today.

It rained all the day except for a couple of hours in the evening after mum got back. It was the most depressing day we had down there.  I sorted out all our records.

In the evening Freddie & Owen came round & we went mushrooming & got about 2lbs of them.

Saturday 16^th august 1941

I finished up a roll of films and started another roll.  We had decent weather because I was going home.

I left after dinner about 12.30

My case was extremely heavy & was hardly getting along until Mrs Scott caught me up & she made a good pacemaker for me & I got on the platform at 1 precisely.

In the train I thought things over, on the whole I’ve enjoyed myself & I’ve advanced considerably with the Crockett girls but I recon if I go down there next year we shall have a much better time because there will be no removing jobs to be done & I’ve learnt a lot of the Clarry this week.  I left my camera with Mum & Dad.  We went up the club in the evening so I have not done much playing this week my arms were very tired when I finally got home & then I had to stop up firewatching till 2.

One of the girls we know at the Wednesday dance asked Bert to develop some films for her & when he was doing them Len & I were there.  One of them was a smashing picture of her so we did about 6 extra ones for us & some for the chaps at Bert’s place as they all know Mary because she used to work there.  I wonder what her face will be like when we show her our photos of her.

Sunday 17^th August 1941

Up 11.  I cooked breakfast.

Len & I went round Ronnie Earles place to get the music stand that we left there last time we went.  He’s getting on all right with his guitar.

I went to Lens for dinner and tea & Len & I practised all day.

Went up the club in the evening. Arthur Thompson was waiting for us outside.  He had promised to come up one night.

He knew Wilson, in fact they used to be in the same band.

Arthur took over drums for a while & boy oh boy did we put Rhythm into it.

The difference a really good drummer makes to the band.

Home 12.

Monday 18^th August 1941

Went to library & got “The Construction of the Musical Scale” & “Harmony Diatonic & Chromatic”.

I took Len to the cinema in the evening we saw “Target for Tonight” and “That Night in Rio”.

Tuesday 19^th August 1941

In the evening Len Bert Arthur Thompson & I went to the Rhythm club at Herbert’s, we had quite a good time, but boy the jam session was the best, it made it into a super evening.  We left at 11. 

Home 11.30.

I bought today, “Boa Noite”^VII “She had those Dark & Dreamy eyes” “Forever and a day” & “No 10 lullaby Lane”.

Wednesday 20^th August 1941

After dinner I went to the New Gallery in Regent St & saw “Fantasia”.  It’s a wonderful film & I could have seen it through & through again & again.

I went up Charing X Rd & bought some music.  I got “Stamping at the Savoy” “F & D’s book of famous waltzes “ “ I give you my heart” & “ I Yin Yi Yi Yi”.  I also bought some manuscript books.

Len fell off his bike today & cut his lip so he can’t play his Sax till that’s healed.

We went to the dance.  Syd Bert & Joe turned up. We had a good time.  Mary was mad at first when we all showed our photos of her, but I think she felt flattered though.  Home 11.30.

A policeman came & asked us if we could do a police dance on Friday week, and he is going to write me & let me know definitely.

Thursday 21^st August 1941

Mr Redding & Joan came up.

Ern & I went out in the afternoon & bought some firefighting equipment, we got 1 axe, 1 lifeline(100 Feet) 5 ceiling hooks & 1 crowbar.

In the evening we all went round the post & had a practice .  Mr Earles was jolly good on Guitar.  Sid was supposed to be giving us a real rehearsal but he didn’t turn up till late, he had been trying to get a tenor sax for us for a job at the Bus Garage again where they want a 6 piece but he said if we like he will say he has a 4 piece who will do the job & he is going to put us through our paces with the quicksteps & then we should be good enough to do the job ourselves, so the 4 of us are going round on Monday and Thursday next week & he is going to improve us on quicksteps.

Home 11.45.

Friday 22^nd August 1941

Stopped in all day saw Len & Bert in the evening.

Saturday 23^rd August 1941

Bert & I went out in the morning & had a tour round the West End.

It rained all the time – just our luck.

We started at Bourdons of Shoreditch.  I left my Clarinet there to have the barrel mended, & while we were there Alan walked in & he promised to collect it for me.

Bert brought a cymbal & a pair of sticks.

Then we went by train to Leicester Square & walked up Charing X Rd & along Oxford St to a place Bert had to go from there we went down Wardour St to Piccadilly Circus & to Keith Prowse.

I brought “I understand” there.  I ordered Victor Sylvester’s Quickstep Medley.

Then we walked to Leicester Square, took a train to Holborn & walked along Holborn we bought some gramophone needles at a shop along there.

Then we rode home & got home soaking wet at 1.15.

In the afternoon Len Ron Bert & I had a practice.  Ronnie said he would come to the club tonight but he didn’t turn up however.

Sunday 24^th August 1941

Up late.  In the afternoon the 3 of us went to see Arthur.  I brought a tin hat off him for 5/- & Bert bought one for Johnson & he also bought a cymbal arm.

At the club I didn’t do much work because they stopped for Churchills speech & after that the pianist they used to have, turned up in uniform & he played several numbers & we closed a bit earlier than usual but I don’t mind because I got paid for it.  Bert was told tonight that we are the resident band at the club as long as we like to stay, after the war as well.

Monday 25^th August 1941

Work again.

Gerald is home, he arrived on the 17^th.  Last week he signed an agreement taking over the firm if FMG dies.

I went to K Ps during lunch & bought “So Deep is the Night” & “Down Forget me not Lane”.  My record wasn’t in but they may have it tomorrow.

We all went round the post in the evening for a practice. When we finished Syd told Bert one or 2 home truths about his playing & he didn’t like it.  That’s the whole trouble with Bert he can’t be told anything & although he is always decrying bashers on the drums, he is developing into one himself, now he has got 2 cymbals he keeps going from one to another at all awkward places throwing us all out.  Syd never has any criticism against me & the other 2 don’t like that, Syd told Ronnie he is o.k. on his guitar.

I can see a big row soon if something isn’t altered in the band.

Someone from the bus garage came & he will bring someone else along on Thursday & we can settle the money part & they will want another player.

Tuesday 26^th August 1949

KP still haven’t got my record, if they don’t get it by tomorrow I shall go somewhere else for it.

Went to music in evening.

Wednesday 27^th August 1941

I got my record from Keith Prowse.  We went to the dance in the evening.  Ronnie came with us.  We had a damn good time.  We split our earnings between the 4 of us.

Thursday 28^th August 1941

Mum & Dad went to Laindon.  I bought an air gun off Ern.

We all went round to the Post for a practice, we are going to get £3 on Sept 7^th between 5 of us.

I gave Ern a couple of games of snooker.

Ern painted my helmet today for me.

Friday 29^th August 1941

Went to dance in evening.

When we got home Mr Terry the Head Warden was talking to Ern & when he had gone Ern told Bert & I that on Sept 14 it was going to be made compulsory to Firewatch^VIII & Mr Terry wanted Ern to take over a section from Dundee Rd to Grasmere Road we would have a post & firewatchers for the section would have to meet there & go to their own roads in a raid.  You would have to fire watch under a fine of £20 first time £50 2nd time & 7 months hard labour for 3^rd failure to turn up.

We drew a rough map of the sector & Ern said he will probably consider one of the bombed houses near North St or have part of the school for his post.

He’s got up to the 14^th to get in touch with all the street leaders & make some preliminary arrangements.

Saturday 30^th Aug 1941

Went up club in evening they kept us later than we have ever been before.  We arranged with Wilson that he would come to the dance next Sunday afternoon.

Wilson forgot my Clarry but he will get it on  Monday.

Sunday 31^st August 1941

I was firewatching from 2 – 6 with Ern so I didn’t go to bed.

Len Bert Ern & I all went to Laindon at 6.30 Mum & Dad were coming later.

We sent a note round to Syd telling him we had got Wilson & asking him to cancel the accordionist.

He said that he wanted to see us on Monday evening.

We had a jolly find time at Laindon & it was the most enjoyable day I’ve had for a long time.

Len Bert & I left early so that we could get to the club.

Alan didn’t come tonight, but a chap that we’ve met up there who plays Sax & violin, came & he joined us, he was smashing but he is much too fast.  Connie Eades was there with us.  When we got home we were told that about 10 & after planes were heard & the guns were very loud. 

Monday 1^st September 1941

Felt lousy all day because I haven’t had much sleep for several days past.

I went round Ronnie’s house & we sorted out some tunes he might be able to sing if we could transpose them.

Len Ronnie & I went to see Syd.  He got mad & so did Len & they had a real argument .  I didn’t say too much it was finally arranged that he would see when we could all practice together & see how the accordionist got on with us & we would have a 6 piece as the garage said they would pay us £3.12.0 for 6. But I thought to myself that Syd would cancel the accordion – he was so mad.

Tuesday 2^nd September 1941

Mr Guedalla is getting much worse.  Miss Baily started her holidays.

I messed about all evening.

Wednesday 3^rd September 1941

Went to dance in evening had a good time.  Ronnie was with us.  Home 11.15.

Arthur came to the dance with us & played part of the time.

Thursday 4^th September 1941

Mr Guedalla is dying they all say it’s only a matter of days before he goes.  He is unconscious now.

Aunt Lily & Rose came in the evening .  I practiced most of the time.

I got “The Inimitable Jeeves” from Westminster Library.

Friday 5^th September 1941

Miss Joseph said that she & GDS discussed my salary & decided to give me a 5/- rise on 1^st October.  

I bought “Corn Silk”.

Went to music in evening.

We went round the school & had a practice later.  Got “Great Prophecies about the War” from the Westminster Library.  I am going down to Wickford to attend at the completion of the purchase of the Bungalow.

Saturday 6^th September 1941

I caught the 11.17 train from Ilford to Wickford & arrived at 12.2.  I found I had a bus ride when I got off the train & then I had a walk.  Eventually I arrived though.

We soon settled it all & then Mr Coleman gave me a lift back to the bus stop in his car.  I caught the 2.8 from Wickford & arrived home at 3.40.

We went up the club in the evening.  It had been arranged that Ronnie will be paid 10/- for the 2 nights.

Sunday 7^th September 1941

The dance at the Bus Garage was O.K. we will almost certainly get the next job up there.

We went direct from there to the club.  When we were packing up at the club the Secretary told me the purple was up.  But nothing came of it.

Monday 8^th September 1941

I went to Boosey & Hawkes & got some reeds.  I went to the BBC & found out the number of a record I heard the other day.  

I played the piano & practiced on my Clarry in the evening.

Tuesday 9^th September 1941

Mr Guedalla died today at 2pm.

After the number of times everyone has been to see him he was alone when he died.

Mrs Guedalla came to the office to see Miss Joseph, I passed her as I was going out, & just after she had got at the office (Miss Joseph was out at lunch) the clinic rang through with the message that Mr Guedalla had passed away & so Mrs Guedalla was the first person to know it.

Miss Joseph went to Park Crescent she put the notice in the telegraph & times & we had them ringing us up to confirm the notice.

We stayed at the office till 20 to 7 but Miss Joseph must have been there nearly all night because she was writing letters to everyone telling them the news, & when she finished that she would have to come back to the office & sign her letters here.  Mr Guedalla is to be cremated at Golders Green Thursday at 2pm.

Len & I went round the post in the evening for a practice. 

The cops are having a dance on Friday & want us, as I didn’t see anyone – they called when I was out I left a letter for a copper to collect tomorrow, Syd has heard of 2 more jobs for us in the near future.

Wednesday 10^th September 1941

Great rushing about at the office today.  Mr Guedalla is being buried tomorrow & the office will be closed.  

We went to the dance in the evening.  Arthur came with us. 

The coppers went for our letter while we were at the dance & he didn’t like the 30/- we asked for. At the last dance we did for the cops, Ronnie came & didn’t get paid, & so the cop came to the dance to see me he wanted us to do it for 22/6d as we did last time but I told him that we wanted 7/6 a man.  He turned up nasty, so I said we wouldn’t do it unless we got 30/- so he said he get another band.  Arthur was mad when we told him about it.  He said, “Does he think your (—-) Coolies or slaves”, working for about 5/- each.  He said it was the best job I ever did to refuse it under 30/-.

Dad & mum were of the same opinion when I told them what had happened, – they already knew a bit of it.

Thursday 11^th September 1941

Got up at 11. When Stan came, he is home on leave & is going visiting all his relatives.  It was strange that he should call the day I am home, he said that wherever he goes in the daytime he only sees females & in the evening his girl wants to go out with him.  I went to the library in the afternoon & got “The Adventures of Bindle” & “Mrs Bindle” by Herbert Jenkins.

Book 27

Friday 12^th September 1941

Went to music in evening.  I lent Len some music.  Miss Joseph went away for the weekend so we left early.

Saturday 13^th September 1941

I got my record of Rudy Weidoeft.^IX  Left the office at 11.30.  Showed Len the record, & then went & got my suit that was being cleaned.  

Had a bath.

We went to the club.  It was a super night, we all felt on form & I never knew that Len could do such thing to his sax.  

I missed night school today.

Monday 15^th September 1941

We came to a decision about buying music etc. yesterday, it was agreed that music should be paid for in equal shares & that all repairs under 2/6 were paid for by the person who needed them but all repairs over 2/6 would be split equally.

Today I bought our first orchestration “Birth of the Blues”.

I got home at 7.20.  Saw Len after tea & gave him his part.  He asked me to get him some pods for his sax so he gave me the 3 leavers & said “don’t pay more than 3/6d for them”.

Bed 10.30

Saw Bert just before I went to bed.  He saw Arthur tonight, he has got a job on Friday & says we can go if we like.  Dad went to the doctor today.  He is suffering from Hernia & will have to wear an appliance.  Poor old pop.  The best people always have to suffer most.

Tuesday 16^th September 1941

I got Len his pads from Bosey & Hawkes —— they charged the enormous sum of 9d for the 3 pads I got. Len & I went round the school in the evening after we had given Ron his guitar part of Birth of the Blues.

The warden Bert was round the school & we tried to teach him the sax & Clarry. 

Wednesday 17^th September 1941

Went to the dance. Arthur was there.  I arranged to go round the school tomorrow night. 

Stopped up till after 12 talking to Ern.

Thursday 18^th September 1941

I made up dads account with the firm for the bungalow today. 

Len & I went round the post.  Quite a load of people turned up & we played for them.  We tried to teach one of the girls how to blow the sax.

Friday 19^th September 1941

Went down Charing X Rd round the bookshops during lunch.  I bought “The Good Soldier Schweich” in one shop.  When the war is over I’m going to start buying some of the good books that I was looking at today — books that will always be interesting, but of course they are expensive.

I went to music in the evening Len & Bert went to a dance to see Arthur playing.

Dad took mum to the Doctor this evening.  She seems to have a sort of breakdown, & she has to rest as much as she can.

I rang up Freddie today. He is coming to see me on the 28^th.

Saturday 20^th September 1941

Len & I went up East Ham to Greenwood the music stores, but when we got there we found they had been blasted out.  We found another music shop a bit further on & I bought “Victor Sylvester Slow”.  “Fox Trot Medley” “Oasis” “Huckleberry Duck” & a selection “music while your work “ & “St Bernard’s Waltz.”  Len bought “I hear a Rhapsody” Went up the club in the evening.

When we got home Bert was firewatching & I was on after.  As we have got the post ready Ern Me, Bert & his uncle went down the post and played darts till 2 when Bert finished Ern & I stayed there till 5.15. then we went home.

Bed 6.

Sunday 21^st September 1941

I overslept & didn’t go to school.

At the club we had the most musical evening we’ve spent there so far, we were getting real rhythm & melody.

I got talking to a nice bit of overtime at the end, I must say I would like to take her home, maybe I will next Saturday.

Bed 12.30

Monday 22^nd September 1941

I invested in 5 certificates today.

Bought the trio of “I’ll think of you” backed with “Moonlight in Mexico”, also bought “Beautiful Dreamer”.

Went up Lens house in the evening.

We heard the radio Jam session at 9, was fairly good but Aubrey Franks^X squeaked several times in his solo.

Mum & dad went down to the bungalow.

Gerald came home late & I didn’t leave till 6.45.  Home 7.30.

Tuesday 23^rd September 1941

Mum came home in the evening.  She is going back Friday.  Len & I went up the post in the evening & played for a while.

I took my Clarry to Bonodows for a new barrel but they haven’t got any.  I shall sell my Clarry & buy a L.P. one.

I had to go to Mrs Guedalla at Claridge’s and didn’t get home till 7.45

Wednesday 24^th September 1941

Went up the club in Cumberland Rd.  Arthur came with us.  We had some fun.  Arthur had speciality “Oasis” and did we swing it.

We are moving the offices from Park Crescent to Grand Bldings & today I was at P.C. sorting the books.  I found a picture of the type Ron paints & took it for him, he asked me to get some more if possible.

Thursday 25^th September 1941

Spent the day up P.C. sorting books & tying up papers.

Bert came in in the evening.  I got some pictures for Ron from P.C. & took them round.

Friday 26^th September 1941

Miss Ashton & I finished getting ready for the removal men.  I got Ron some more pictures & got myself some books.  

Went to music read afterwards.

Saturday 27^th September 1941

Had hair cut in afternoon.  

I went down Lens house.  Went up club in evening.

Home 11.45.

Ern told us that an ARW had gone in the distance & Bert Ern & I stopped up till 1.30, guns fired occasionally.  We went up at 1.30.  soon after there was a terrific burst of gunfire, & then I fell asleep.

Sunday 28^th September 1941

Up at 8.50.  went to school at 10.  Home 12.15.

Saw Ronnie in the afternoon.  He is making a music stand & it will be jolly good when it is finished.

He came round early in the evening & trailed over Boa Nite, Amapola & Kiss me again.

He sang these 3 at the club & it was jolly good too.  When he sang he wasn’t announced & when we went into the 2^nd chorus of Boa Nite & Ron started crooning everybody was taken by surprise but they enjoyed it & he got clapped a lot.

Monday 29^th September 1941

I bought “I hear a Rhapsody” backed with “Just a Little Cottage” & “Aurora” backed with “Tell your troubles to the breeze”.  I got trio parts.  I also bought a piano transcript album by Fats Waller with several old favourites in it.

Went to library & got “Quick Work” by P G Wodehouse.  

Gerald came up.

Stayed in all night.

Tuesday 30^th September 1941

Went to library & got “Dancer in Madrid” by Janet Riesenfeld.

Tomorrow is the day of atonement & Jose won’t be in.  She left early tonight & so did we.  I went round the post with Ron & we wrote out his tune & I am going to orchestrate it sometime.  We also picked out some more tunes for him to sing.  A pal of his has written words for some songs and he wants us to put them to music for him.

Wednesday 1^st October 1941

Went to library & got “Himalayan village” by W Gorer.

After lunch I went up Park Crescent, we found some more books to come down.

Home 6.20

Went up Cumberland Rd dance.  Wasn’t too bad up there.

Thursday 2^nd October 1941

Went to library & got “The Social Institutions of the Kipsigis” by W.E. Peristiany.

Saw Len in evening.

Friday 3^rd October 1941

Freddie brought Walters cloth today, he called in the evening with it.  He & I tried to ring Walter to tell him about it but we couldn’t get through.

Went to music.

When I came back from music Len & I went to the police dance but we couldn’t get in as it was full up.  What we heard of the band wasn’t too bad but Ron who got in said that they were lousey, the trumpet only played a few tunes they had a concertina & they all did it for nothing except the pianist, who got 10/-.

They only played 3 quicksteps, & the rest were fox trots & waltzes & they spent a lot of the time with raffles etc.

Len & I went for a walk round.

I was firewatching 10 till 2.

Saturday 4^th October 1941

I rang up Walter to say I had his cloth.

After dinner I took it over to him, I asked him for some plywood to make a music stand.  He’s got some wood so I suppose he’ll let me have it shortly.

Len & I had a practice. It was o.k. up the club tonight.

Sunday 5^th October 1941

Up at 9.

Went to school.

Mum isn’t very well.

Dad had to go firewatching so I didn’t go till he got home about 10 to 8, because I didn’t think I ought to leave mum alone. I don’t think I’ve ever know her so queer.  Home 12.15.

Bill Shipp said he would see about getting on the stage.

Monday 6^th October 1941

Bought “These are the things I love” & “Round the back of the arches” backed with “Adi-adios”.  I also got a song for Ron “Song of Songs”.

Gerald was up.  I left the office at 6.15.

Stopped in all night sorting stamps.

Walter called in the evening with a photo of the baby.

Tuesday 7^th October 1945

Went to library & got “Famous Bank Forgeries, Robberies & Swindles” by R. T. Hopkins.

Left office at 6.

Wednesday 8^th October 1941

I’m spending all my time getting things sorted out up the office now.

Went up the ARP Hut.

Home 11.15

Thursday 9^th October 1941

I had a practice in the evening & partly orchestrated one of our tunes.

I got caught in a gas test at Charing X station coming home.

I didn’t know anything about it & as I turned the corner of Northumberland Avenue to go to the station entrance I felt something in my eyes then I saw a chap put on his mask & then I saw a lot of smoke over by the station so I just held my breath & ran like hell on to the platform, it didn’t affect me very much but I’m carrying my mask in future.

Friday 10^th October 1941

Saw Freddie in the evening.

Went to music in the evening read afterwards.

Saturday 11^th October 1941

Saw Len after tea & we had a practice.  Went up the club there were 2 sailors up there one on accordion & the other a comedian.

We had one of the biggest jams I’ve ever been in.

Will Shipps brother in-law — who tried to cut us out of the job once — managed to get on the piano once & didn’t want to get off but still I saw he did get off.

Bill Shipp asked us if we could go to a party afterwards so Bert Len I & Allen all went we go there at 1.15am & packed up at 4.30am.  Playing almost all the time.

Sunday 12^th October 1941

Up at 9. Went to school.  I met Bert as I was coming home he has the chance of a job next Saturday at the Black Lion Pavilion.  It is a firm’s dance.  As we discussed & finally arrived at the conclusion (which has been steadily going around in all of us for a long time) that the Radical Club wasn’t doing our playing any good & we weren’t appreciated by them so we came to the decision that we would chuck up the job tonight.  After dinner Bert & I went to see Ron.

Mrs Eades told us that last night Ron had 2 double whiskies & he was drunk when he got home & while she was getting the supper ready she went into the scullery & when she came back Ron was sitting down with a hunk of bread of his knees, their tiny kitten in that & another huge chuck of bread on top of the kitten & he was trying to cut the lot in half to eat as a sandwich.  The poor kitten was struggling to get away & Ron was sawing away at it. I doubt if Ron will ever be allowed to forget that.

We went & saw Syd & told him we would be free for weekend jobs & then we all went to see Arthur & he said we were doing the best things.

I went up to Lens house in the evening & shortly afterwards Bert came along with Ern & Terry.

Bert then said that we had better not chuck the Radical Club tonight as Len Newell who actually got the job is not seeing the fellow again for the next few days & he may engage another band & then we would be in the cart.  So we left it at that.

Stan & Ivy came up for a little while.

Mrs Eades won 10/- in the draw & Ivy won 5/-tonight.  Ern & Terry stayed on the stage with us, & Ern enjoyed himself with the mike.

Allen didn’t come tonight, the 2 sailors were up there. Packed up at 11.

Monday 13^th October 1941

Gerald came in frantically busy.

I didn’t leave the office till 7.15 because M. Redgrave’s secretary was coming at 7 to pick up his will that Gerald did today & the night staff of Grand Bldgs couldn’t be found & I had to stop to let her in, when the watchman did eventually come along it was 7pm and I had a lovely row with them about their being nobody about.  Home at 8.  Bed 11.

Tuesday 14^th October 1941

I ordered “Bomber Command”^XI today.   Gerald came in.  left at 6.  Stayed in.  As Bert has very little to do at his office he was given the job of sorting out all his firm’s files, with another chap, at the Head Office & their Islington depot.  He had to buy a boiler suit on Saturday (which the firm paid for) he started yesterday at Islington & he said all the files are in a cellar that stinks like a sewer & he said files going back to 1925 & even older were there & most of them had been eaten by rats.  He said you raised a cloud of dust every time you move & he came home tonight with a lovely cough caused by inhaling so much dust so he is not going in tomorrow & I don’t blame him.

Wednesday 15^th October 1941

I sorted out all the old books today at the office left at 5.50.

Went to the dance Arthur came.  We had a good time tonight & did we put rhythm in.

Bert says we will get the job if we like to take it so after a lengthy confabulation we decided that tomorrow Bert would find out if we had the job then he would ring me & if we had the job I would then ring the Radical Club and say we wouldn’t be coming up any more.

Mark is going to get us a job at a £ a man If somebody can go round the post tomorrow so Ron is going round.  I am going to see Arthurs band tomorrow night Bert is going to help Arthur with his kit earlier.

Book 28

Thursday 16^th October 1941

Got at Arthurs dance early.  Bert & I were on the stage behind the piano.  Len turned up after a few dances, and just before the interval Ron & Mr Eades came.  Ron had been to see Mark about a job he’d got for us but Mark wanted to see me so I had to go round the post.

The job is at Tennyson Rd school on Sat 25^th Oct.  We will get 15/- each.  Saw the boys afterwards we are going round the school for a practice Sunday night.

Bert rang me up during the day & said we have got the job on Saturday next, so I wrote a letter to Mr Payne telling him we wouldn’t be coming any more.

I got Saturday morning off to go out with Bert.

Friday 17^th October 1941

Went to music.  Saw Len after.

Saturday 18^th October 1941

Ron came round about 9.45 & Bert & I went up the West End together.  We started off by visiting Premier Drums but nothing Bert wanted was in stock.

Then we went to Browns.  We got the badges we’ve been after there, Bert got a drum Ron got a guitar & I got a Clarry. No pianos were in stock we bought “Maria Elena”, “What do we care”, “What’s at the top of a sunbeam” backed with “Russian Rose”.  “It always rains before the rainbow” backed with “London Pride”. “Rise & Shine” & we ordered “My sister & I” to be sent to us.

Then we went up Charing X Rd & had some lunch.  Ron then went home & Bert & I went by tube to Manor Hse station to go & see West Ham & Arsenal at Tottenham’s ground.  It was quite a good match but although the final score was Arsenal 4 West Ham 1 the actual score was West Ham 4 (maybe 5 Arsenal 2).  The referee Mr L Brown, was a dirty sod & didn’t give West Ham a break.  Arsenal scored first & then West Ham came down & someone (I forget who) poked the ball so that it hit the crossbar & from there it fell about a foot behind the line.  The linesman flagged a goal but the Arsenal goalie turned & scooped the ball up & threw it into the field & the so-called ref allowed the game to proceed.  While West Ham were appealing the Arsenal ran down & scored & then a minute after they got a 3^rd, but if the ref had allowed the goal West Ham scored Arsenal wouldn’t have got their 2^nd or 3^rd.

West Ham went to pieces then and Arsenal only failed to score because of great work from Gregory our goalie.

Just before the end of the first half West Ham very nearly scored a couple of times.  After the interval Arsenal didn’t have things quite their own way & West Ham scored what would have been goals if the ref had been up the ball, the ball was over the line each time but it was scoped out each time.  Then Arsenal got a goal & West Ham nearly went mad, Foxhall Headed a ball in & I wouldn’t be sure whether it went or not but it was a near things. There seems to be an invisible barrier round the Arsenal goal the way the ball kept going just outside the bars.  At last West Ham got a goal that not even the crooked Ref could refuse, the ball was backed right into the net.

Afterwards West Ham nearly scored several times but just failed.

Home 6.15.

We all went round the Black Lion at 7.  Hardly anyone turned up from the firm who’s dance it was, & the chap running it looked like making a big loss, but we offered to stay late, & Ern went round the bars as they shut & got all the people in & then someone went round with the hat & I don’t think he made such a heavy loss after all.

We had a very good time & we were all half-drunk going home, they kept bring us drinks, shandys at first but eventually beer & we had about 4 different kinds.  We eventually got home about 12.30.

Ern & I were firewatching from 2-6 but I went upstairs & just fell asleep on the bed.

Sunday 19^th October 1941

I got up at 9 though & went to school.  One of the chaps there may get us a job from his firm, if the dance does materialise Miss Angel & her sister will be there, as one of her friends works at the same place as this bloke.  He also knows a chap who prints tickets etc & I have asked him for a sample & a quotation as Ern, Ron Bert Len & I have almost decided to run dances between us, possibly round the Black Lion.

We all went round the school in the evening & had a good time.  Bert (the Warden) brought round a smashing dame he introduced as Wiggles & she started making eyes at Ron.  She will be at our dance on Wednesday probably.

Ern is coming on Wednesday.

Monday 20^th October 1941

Went up Park Crescent in the afternoon & brought downstairs some of the books.

Len & I went to see Ron in the evening.  We numbered all for orchestrations & went through all the music & threw out that which we won’t want to take around with us.

Tuesday 21^st October 1941

Went to library & got “Newsgirl in Palestine” by Barbara Board.

I bought “Beneath the lights of home” “F&B, 54^th selection” “20 golden memories of Hawaii” & “PM 4^th Piano album”.

Wednesday 22^nd October 1941

Ern came up the dance in the evening.

Thursday 23^rd October 1941

Mum & Dad went to Laindon.  When I got home I found that the music we ordered had been delivered.

“My sister & I” is backed with “You walked by”.

I went to the Broadway & saw “Murder on the Yukon” & Arthur Askey in “I thank You”.

I brought home a stack of music from Park Crescent today.

Friday 24^th October 1941

Went to music, bathed after.  I bought 2^nd Peter Maurice Album of 20 song hits & 3^rd PM album of song hits.

Bert came in for a while.

All the Reddin’s came home.

Saturday 25^th October 1941

Got my haircut before I went to work.

Home 1.45

Tried a few tunes over on the piano.

Bert Len & I left for the dance at 3.50. Ron came about 4.20.  the piano at the school was terrible, about 4 notes wouldn’t play when we got there, & all through the evening more & more notes went on strike but we were on top of our form & we will get more jobs from this.  Before the dance a concert party was on.  They were very good for amateurs & the skits they gave were specially good.  There was a darkie there who imitated Al Jolson in “There’s a Rainbow round my shoulder”.  & Sonny Boy” and as a solo act he was the high spot of the show.  We were taken home by car & I went to bed at 12.15.

Sunday 26^th October 1941

Up at 8.30.

Mum & dad went to Laindon.  I went to school at 10.  I played the piano all the afternoon.  At 6.15 I went to Plaistow station to meet mum as Dad had to get out at Upton Park to go firewatching.  I sorted out a load of wastepaper from my desk in the evening.

Monday 27^th October 1941

Gerald won’t be coming up again till the 16^th & am I glad.

I sorted out some stamps in the evening.

I saw Bert in the evening.  He & Ron had been discussing the fact that we should have a leader.  I said that I through Bert should have the job although Arthur knew more chaps in the dance line than we did.

Tuesday 28^th October 1941

I brought home the rest of my music from Park Crescent today and spent the evening sorting it out.  Bert came in & we decided we would take a walk round to see Ron & discuss Bert being leader but as we went out we heard the guns firing so we stayed outside in case anything happened.  Went to library & got “Escapers All” being a book of escapes from prisoner of war camps, very good book.

Wednesday 29^th October 1941

Went to the dance in the evening.  We were jolly good.  Len wasn’t too keen about Bert being leader but he agreed in the end.

We will have to keep Len in his place a bit he is getting ideas too big for himself lately.

Mark said that we could have the hall for a practice Thursday as Len had asked for it.  Going home Len said he wouldn’t be able to come as he was going to the pictures with his ma.

I bought “No orchids for Miss Blandish “ by J H Chase.

Thursday 30^th October 1941

Miss Joseph brought a very nice music case from Park Crescent for me.

Len Bert & I have a practice round the school.

Friday 31^st October 1941

Went to music.

Bought “Jealousy” & “Kiss Boys goodbye” backed with, “I’ll never let a day pass by.”

Took Ron’s music to him.

Ron’s father said that there is going to be an invasion practice tomorrow.

Saturday 1^st November 1941

Bought “Hearts don’t lie” backed with “Thanks to love” & “All alone with my shadow”.

Went to pictures in afternoon went round Odeon & saw George Formby in “Keep Fit” & “Manhunt”.

I came out with a lousy headache & my eyes felt hot & big.

We went to the dance round the Black Lion & I don’t think we’ve ever been so bad.  My headache was worse & my bad playing seemed to infect the others & we were all darn glad when we finished.  We had an ARW while we were there & we heard guns very loud, we thought at first it was a part of the invasion practice but we found later it was a real raid.  Times 10.9 to 11.15pm

Sunday 2^nd November 1941

Stopped in all day except for an hour in the afternoon when I saw Len.

Monday 3^rd November 1941

Bert & I went out in the evening to see if Syd had got any jobs for us then we walked to East Ham & went in the Burrell to hear their band it was a 4 piece. Trumpet Sax Drums & piano.  The piano & Sax were experts, the trumpet was average & the drums might have been good in his own way but he was too much show. 

I bought today “The greatest mistake of my life”.

Tuesday 4^th November 1941

I had a good practice in the evening & I fixed up a programme for tomorrow night.

I saw Bert when he came back from Arthurs place. Arthur is now up the Bridge House every Friday Saturday Sunday afternoon & evening so we will have to go up and see him soon.

Bought “St Marys in the twilight” backed with “27 Babies”.

Wednesday 5^th November 1941

Had a good time at the dance.

Thursday 6^th November 1941 

I ordered 100 cards for the band.  We went round the post for a practice. Bert didn’t come till late as he went to see Eddie Sinclair about a job for Saturday. Eddie hadn’t a job for him but we will see him again on Monday.  we had a good practice.

Home 11.15.

Friday 7^th November 1941

Freddie rang up today to say that a land mine dropped at the bottom of 4^th Avenue last night he hasn’t seen our place yet but he is going over there tonight & he is coming to see me tomorrow afternoon.

Mark rang me up to say that he had a job for us tonight at the ILP Hut for the police, The Blitz Boys who did it for them have found out what mugs they were, 6 of them doing it for 30/-, they advertised in the Stratford Express & I suppose they have got better offers now. 

We got there at 7.30 the dance was lousy, they wanted everything fast & we couldn’t find their tempo.  Everything we played according to them was too slow, even our quicksteps & we were darned glad when it finished.  The 4 of us got 35/- to split.

I tried to get our cards today but I was told they won’t be ready till tomorrow & as Miss Ashton & I are having alternate Saturdays off & mine is tomorrow I won’t be able to get them.

Saturday 8^th November 1941

Stayed in bed till 11.45.

After dinner I went to the library & got “Modern Stamp Collecting” & “Stamps of the Empire”. Then I went to the Odeon & saw “In the Navy” and “The Man Who Lost Himself”. I bathed in the evening.

Freddy called, he said our place is o.k.

Sunday 9^th November 1941

Mum & dad went to Laindon, I went to school in the morning.  I met Ron as I was going home he came in & we were talking about music for a couple of hours.  Then I had dinner.  Len came down in the afternoon, he Ron & I are going to see Arthur at the Bridge Hse this evening.  Bert is going to see his pal at Lewisham.

When Mum & Dad came home they said that one of the walls of the kitchenette shifted an inch or so but otherwise it is o.k.

Ron Mrs Eades Len & I went to the Bridge House about 7.30.

They have a 4 piece – Arthur Drums, Don Frazer Guitar & Piano Accordion doubling Piano & a Pianist who also thinks he can sing.  The pianist is a lousy player for chords. & when they played Oasis it sounded awful compared to the way we play it.

Monday 10^th November 1941

I saw the Lord Mayors show today there were several bands & ARP & the Army Navy & RAF were there with all the foreign troops & the Women’s services.  It made a change from the procession that goes down the strand on ordinary days.

I got our Band Cards today.  

I bought a record of the RAF playing “Darktown Strutters Ball.

Ron Mrs Eades Len Bert & I went to St Georges Hall to see Eddie Sinclair & his boys. They are an absolutely super band & just as good as most of the bands that are heard on the wireless.  They just play straight through from beginning to end.  The pianist only took about 4 breaks during the whole of the evening & they sounded smashing.  

I saw him afterwards, he has been playing for 24 years.  

Bert saw the bloke who runs the joint & he said he will need us in the near future, I only hope they don’t get the same crowd as were there tonight because we will get slung out on our necks if they compare us with Eddy, but still I suppose Eddie is right when he says that so long as the times is right the dancers don’t care a damn about the rest.

Tuesday 11^th November 1941

I went round to Ron’s house in the evening & taught Ron a lot of theory of music.

Wednesday 12^th November 1941

Went to the dance in the evening.

Thursday 13^th November 1941

I went to the HAS clinic this afternoon for my final test & came to all arrangements about my glasses, I will get my glasses in 3 weeks or a month.  The form I got from the insurance co has to be signed by Dr Kyndt.

When I’m wearing my glasses I look an absolute twerp, – something like Carrol Gibbons.^XII

I didn’t go back to the office. I got home at 5 to 4.  I went round the post early for a practice & the rest turned up late, but we didn’t do an awful lot of practising because we were all mucking about.

When I got home Ern said that the cops had been round for us to do a dance for them tomorrow so I went & told Ron, he can get off in time for it.

Friday 14^th November 1941

I rang up Len & told him about tonight’s job.

I went to FDH during lunch & bought “While the music Plays on” while I was in FDH an NFS man came in for some of the reeds that FDH have got from America for the services only.  Although the assistant sympathised with the fireman he was unable to let him have any reeds as he was not in the Army Navy or Air Force although he agreed that the NFS & ARP was a 4^th service and if the chap hadn’t been in the NFS he would have been in one of the services.  He said he had had several blokes come in for reeds like him & all he could do was to tell him to get a serviceman to come in and buy the reeds for him.

I was nearby this chap outside the shop when he got a soldier to get his reeds so when he had the reeds I went up to him and asked him what the reeds were like.  He said that the reeds were 1/9 each (Tenor Sax Reeds) & that he asked for soft ones, if the ones he had were soft, I certainly wouldn’t like to get a medium one.  They weren’t seasoned enough & they weren’t cut exactly right, out of the ½ dozen he had he said that about 1 was any good at all.  

I bought “I was Hitlers Prisoner” by W Lorant & “Vile Bodies” by E Waugh.  We did well at the dance got 8/9 each.

Saturday 15^th November 1941

Had haircut.  Freddie called in the afternoon.

In the evening Bert & I went up the Bridge Hse, & Bert bought a Tom Tom off Arthur.  Went to library & got “Mr Mulliner Speaking” & “Uncle Fred in the Springtime” by P.G. Wodehouse.

Sunday 16^th November 1941 

Went to school.

Bert & I tried over a few numbers for time in the afternoon & we had his gramophone going.  Stopped in in the evening.

Monday 17^th November 1941

Stopped in in the evening.  Bert went to St Georges Hall to see the dance.

I heard the Kadia Rhythm Club.

Tuesday 18^th November 1941

Gerald is up for 3 days.

The sale at Park Crescent started today & Joseph sent me up to mark the catalogue.  It was very interesting. I’m sure I bid twice for lots because the auctioneer happened to catch my eye twice & immediately put up the bids by 5/- each time.  I was quacking in my boots in case nobody bid higher but I was lucky each time.   There were only a few lots not bid for, we raised on the first days sale £806.17.0d, although I’m not sure that I got down 1 or 2 prices correctly.  Gerald came up to the sale after a while, He bought 3 things, a fine screen, a small round occasional table & he made the biggest bid of the day and got the biggest bargain of the day, he bought the Grand Piano for £54.

I went out to lunch before the end of the sale & Gerald Continued making the catalogue.  Mrs Spyer came.  When I got back from lunch the sale was over & Miss Joseph was there.  When Gerald had finished marking the catalogue he lost the damn thing & I was going to make up another from the auctioneers clerks book, but luckily Gerald found it again.

They are expecting to get double what they got today, tomorrow, when the wines, cigars, & silver comes up, with the rest of the furniture.

Bert answered an ad in the Stratford Express for a band & our band has been chosen.  We have got a regular Saturday night job at 12/6d per man at St Peters Hall Forest Gate & on top of that the bloke who runs the dances at St Georges Hall called for Bert when he was out & when Bert & I saw him he has engaged us at a fee of 10/- a man at least for probably every Friday, so that we have now got an almost certain standing wage of 30/- per week each & on Sunday we have a wedding job at 7/6 per man.

Then Bert & I saw the rest of the boys & got out a list of music to buy this week.

I wonder what Arthur will say about our luck when he sees us tomorrow night.

Wednesday 19^th November 1941

I bought today

“Getting Sentimental over you”

“South American Joe”

“World is waiting for the Sunrise”

“I don’t want to set the world on fire”

“Orchids you wore” & The Band Played On”

“Pals” & “Wonderful thing is here”

While I was going home I crashed into a post outside the Corner House & I’ve got a lovely bruise on my cheek .

Went to the dance.

Thursday 20^th November 1941

I bought today “Veleta” “It’s time to say goodnight” & “Vienna City of my dreams”.

I didn’t leave the office till 6.30

We went round the post & had a good practice.

Friday 21^st November 1941

Bert & Len went on to the dance & got set up & I went with Ron later.

We were nervous in the first half & didn’t do ourselves justice but in the 2^nd half we were as good as we have ever been.  I don’t know whether we will get the job any more or not thought.

I saw Miss Elson this evening & I am going Tuesdays in future.

Saturday 22^nd November 1941

I didn’t have to go in today so I spent till nearly 12 in bed.

I had a bath in the afternoon. Doris called with the baby just after & stopped till about 6.15.

Len Bert & I went to the dance about the same time.  Ron was coming later.  We got to what we thought was St Peters Hall & we were waiting there for some time & then someone came up & asked if this was where the dance was being held & then I saw it was Mum & Dad, they had come along because they had found my wallet on the floor & had thought they had better let me have it because I would have been worried if I had missed it.

Then they asked us why we hadn’t enquired about the hall as the time was getting on so we went to a house & asked & we were told it was a little further along on the same side of the road, we had been waiting outside a chapel.

We eventually got set up & started, everything was absolutely super.

The club is run by a young chap who enjoyed us & we had an interesting talk with him during the interval, & we offered to do the job for 10/- tonight as he didn’t seem to have a good crowed, he explained that he used to hold dances with a gramophone & the gram broke & he announced there would be no more dances for a couple of weeks & so not all the members had been for a few days & not all of them knew about tonight but it was finally arranged that if he cleared himself we would get 12/6 otherwise it would be 10/-.  We got our 12/6.

We had another talk after it was over & Bob (the organiser) has promised us 10/- a week to buy music, I think he did this because all the requests we got & which we had not got the music for we said we would get.  But we like the people & the place & they all like us.  Several remarks were made about how good Ron was on the guitar.

Home 12.

Sunday 23^rd November 1941

Up at 9.  Went to school.

Ern had called a meeting of firewatchers for the afternoon to announce that he wanted to form two committees one to deal with the Rota & the other to deal with the money as he has to do business firewatching 4 or 5 nights a week & he is going after a job in Henley’s Cable works at Woolwich so we spent about an hour & a half at least this afternoon.  Then we had tea, & then Mum & Ern went to Ilford to see Uncle Rob & Liz, as Queenie died last Wednesday afternoon.

We all went to the wedding, near West Ham Park we had a very good time & all came home half cut.  I don’t think we have ever played so may tunes in a night.

Monday 24^th November 1941

I bought some records today. I got the Andrew Sisters in “Bougie Woogie Bugle Boy” & “Bounce me Brother with a Solid 4” George Shearing In “Beat me daddy 8 to the bar” & “Scrub me mamma with a boogie beat” & McKinney’s Cotton Pickers in “”Shim-Me-Sha-Wabble” & “Millenberg Joys“ This record is No 1 of the HMV Collectors series & Sid Phillips Quintet in “Royal Garden Blues” & Man about town.

I spent the evening writing out music & I spent most of my firewatching doing that as well.  & I also started my 17^th birthday by firewatching.

Tuesday 25^th November 1941

My 17^th Birthday.

I bought myself 10 certificates today.

I also bought a record of Ambrose playing “Boogie Woogie Piggy “ Home Sweet Home again”.

I also heard Glen Millers record of Booglie Wooglie Piggy & although it has more swing it has no boogie woogie while Ambrose’s record has.

I bought “Rock a bye baby at Twilight”.

I spent about 2 hrs alone in Park Crescent today going through every room & collecting all electric light bulbs etc.  Most of the house was in darkness & the electricity is cut off, so it was a good job I had a torch.

Went to music & afterwards I went & saw Len & took my records & we had a record swing programme.

Wednesday 26^th November 1981

Went up Park crescent & went over the house with the salvage collectors who nearly stripped the place.  

Went to the dance with the boys.

Thursday 27^th November 1941

Went to Park Crescent to let in the phone people & the men from the Red Cross who would look at the coal.

A woman called to collect the phones & as she wouldn’t carry all of them & I didn’t want to mess about up there another time when they could collect them I got on the phone & arranged for a van to call & collect the stuff.

About 12 the red cross man hadn’t come, & I had to go to Marylebone town hall & the van driver wanted to go to Kilburn on private business, so we left the dame there disconnecting the phones & we first went to Kilburn & then to Marylebone town hall so that we were both pleased.  But when we got back the dame said that a coalman had called & said the Red X wanted him to shift the stuff & he had seen it, but that was alright even though I hadn’t been there because she told him I had gone to the town hall, & he had to go elsewhere but he didn’t know how long he would be but that he would look in again on the chance of seeing me, but not to wait for him as he would be some time.  So when I got back to the office I told them that about 12 I didn’t think the Red X man was coming & I thought I would save time by going to the Town Hall while the dame was in Park Crescent but while I was gone he had called & left a message so that everything was ok in the end.

I bought today 

“Charmain”

“I love the Moon”

“Wood Choppers Ball”

“Twelfth St Rag”

We went to the club in the evening but we didn’t have a very good practice because we were continually interrupted to play requests.

Home at 11.15

Friday 28^th November 1941

Went to the Odeon in the evening & saw “49^th Parallel” & a musical short.

Home 10.15

Saturday 29^th November 1941

Left the office at 1.20.

Messed about in the afternoon.  We went up the club in the evening.

Sunday 30^th November 1941

Went to school.

In the evening we went up the club for a talk.  We had a decent time but I recon there will be a row when Bob sees the place because Ray & Squibs went out & got drunk & nearly wrecked the place.

Chairs were broken & the big rope was left laying about, the gas fires were on & the door wasn’t locked.

Monday 1^st December 1941

Stayed in in evening.

Tuesday 2^nd December 1941

Went to music 

Bathed after.

Wednesday 3^rd December 1941

Went to the dance in the evening.  Mary says she is coming up to our club one Saturday.

Thursday 4^th December 1941

Went for a practice at the club.  While we were there Bob gave them a good ticking off for the way that some of them carry on at the club, & their laziness.  He was quite right in all he said, they pay 2d a week & look at the benefits they get for it, but only about ½ a dozen of them ever do any work, the rest just come when they think they will & never help the club at all.  Bob said that unless they got a good attendance next Saturday he would reorganize the club.

The police came for us today to see if we could do their job tomorrow.  We decided to try & get 10/- per man.

Friday 5^th December 1941

I bought some music I got “Starlight Serenade”

“Love in a misty Lane”

“Blue Champagne” backed with “Land of Begin Again” & “The Sun will Shine Tomorrow” backed with “While the Music Plays On”.

Went to library in afternoon got a stamp catalogue & “Nya” by Stephen Haggard.

Went to the dance we didn’t get a good crowd & true to his word Bob has reorganised the club all except the 10 that work have been thrown out & have to pay every night they come.  Some of them if they re-apply may become members again though.

Next week we are running a carnival up there. 

Home at 12.

I was firewatching 2-6 with Reddin so I did from 2-4 then called Reddin to do the rest & turned in.  I read part of “Nya” while I was firewatching.  It is one of the most poignant books I’ve ever read.

Sunday 7^th December 1941

Up at 9. Went to school.  

Went round Johnny’s house in the afternoon. Johnny is one of the club’s 10 members still.

When I got back Wal & Doris were home.  Walter suddenly remembered as I got in that he had left his car in the road with no lights on & after they had all gone dashing off mum told me that Walter had said that someone from London Transport had spoken to him about a band they wanted & Walter told him about us the “Melody Makers” & this chap said “You’re sure you don’t mean the “Merry Makers” who play at a club in Neville Rd.  So Walter who knew nothing about our new job, said “No of course not it’s the “Melody Makers” I’m talking about”.  So the L.T. bloke said that’s o.k. then only I don’t want the Merry Makers they are a lousy band that can’t keep time. & of course the “Merry Makers” are us.  Ray had some bills printed and the silly so and so put on them “Merry Makers” instead of “Melody Makers” but we came to the conclusion that he must have heard us when we were messing about or when we were swinging on “Oasis” or something hot.  However I’ll have to get in touch with Walter & find out the true facts and see if we are still wanted or not.

We went up the club to play tonight.

Home at 12.

Monday 8^th December 1941

I managed to get Len 3 reeds today & I got 3 Clarry reeds.

 I bought a couple of records today.  I got “Clementine” & “My Pretty Girl” which is the 2^nd collectors series disc & “Ja Da” & “Kealy the Blues”.

 I stayed in in evening.  Len came down & said the reeds were o.k. & I’m getting him more.

Tuesday 9^th December 1941

I got 3 more reeds for Len.  

Went to music.

Went down Lens after & took my discs. We had some fun down there.

Bert was talking to Ern when I got home &  showing him a pair of maracas he has bought off Arthur.

Wednesday 10^th December 1941

We went to the dance in the evening.  A couple of roughs got in who wouldn’t leave when requested & Charlie had to throw them out.  We heard later that they were waiting outside for him with a gang & we were looking forward to a scrap but when we left with Charlie there was no one there.

I was firewatching from 10-2.

Thursday 11^th December 1941

We went to the club & played till 10.30

Friday 12^th December 1941

Bert & I arranged to go up the other end tomorrow morning & I went & saw Ron & told him when we were going so that he could call for us.

Saturday 13^th December 1941

Up at 8.15.  Ron was supposed to call for Bert and I at 8.50 but he didn’t turn up so Bert & I at 9.10 went & got our hair cut.  Then we went & saw Ron, he said he didn’t get up till 9 & then he thought we would have gone so he didn’t bother.

Bert & I went by train to Piccadilly & then we went to Premiers but they had no drums in stock so we went to Len Woods they had some stuff but Bert didn’t want what they had except one side drum which she didn’t know the price of, as it had just come in so she arranged to ring Bert when she knew the price of the drum & when she had some stuff in that he wanted.

Then we went to Selfridges but they had nothing, at all that was decent so we came home, on our way back we looked round the RAF advice bureau in Oxford St & saw the exhibition of saving life at sea at Charing X Stn.

Home at 3.

We went to the dance about 7.  It was carnival night & we had a smashing time.

One of the chaps there provisionally booked us for 12/6 per man on the 23^rd at Drury Lane for a dance his firm is having & Bert will hear from them on Monday.  Home 12.

Sunday 14^th December 1941

Up at 9.30.  went to school for the last time in 3 weeks.  Stayed in all afternoon.

At 6.24pm Dad was at the shop alone firewatching we heard the ARW go so I dashed round there but I was only about ½ way there when the A.C. went at 6.26 but I carried on there & stayed with Dad till he left at 7.30 we heard on the 9 pm news that it was a test.  Bed 11.15.

Monday 15^th December 1941

On Saturday the HAS rang up to say my glasses were ready.  Miss B told me.

While at lunch I bought a record of the Duke & his band playing Harlem Air Shaft & Sepia Panorama.  I got some music.  “ Ma Ma Maria” back “Imagine the Duchesses’ feelings”

“I’d never fall in love again” backed “Who are you a Shoving of”

“You & I “ backed “We both told a lie” & Home Sweet Home Again” backed “You’re my Arms”.

In the afternoon I went & got my glasses they cost £2.10.6.

Opinion was divided as to how I looked some said o.k. Mrs Eases said “awful” I took down Lens music & also gave Ron his.  

Bed 11.

Tuesday 16^th December 1941

Went to music.  Stayed in during evening & painted a poster for St Peters Hall dance.

Wednesday 17^th December 1941

Went to the dance in the evening.  Last one till 31^st Dec.

We have the job at Drury Lane for next Tuesday at 12/6d per man.  The boys will meet me at Grand Bldgs & I am taking Bert’s drum with me to the office.

Thursday 18^th December 1941

This evening I met 2 old friends & made 1 new one.

On Charring X Stn, I met David Randall.  He lives at Hornchurch now & he was saying that they used to have quite a good amateur RAF band there during the summer, & when I asked him some of their names he said “well there was Joe Daniels^XIII drums & Joe Loss’s pianist^XIV & some other chaps from big bands”, !!!!!! ………”Quite a good amateur band”.

We went to the club in the evening. 

When we were finishing I saw a chap I thought I knew & I thought – shall I speak to him or not.  However I went up to him – & boy oh boy am I glad I did.  I asked him if he was at Lister Institute just before war started, he was, & he remembered me once I spoke to him, we were soon talking away furiously & I got from him the information that Doris Stainsby came back from evacuation about 3 months ago & he said that they still hold a club on Thursday night & that he thinks she goes. He said that quite a lot of the chaps & girls are home now, Staveley is a messenger in the ARP now.
Anyway I’m going up to Lister next chance I get which is on the 8 th Jan to meet Doris if possible.
Some other chap also spoke to us as he wants to take up some instrument but he didn’t know what to take up, he said that whatever he takes up his father will teach him as he can play almost any instrument & he was in the army band when he was in the army, he taught Eric Tann of the Blue Rockets to play the trombone.
We said the best thing he could take up would be tenor Sax & told him that if we were to enlarge our band that would be the next instrument we would have.
I also found that he was interested in Jazz & has a small collection of discs & I said we will have to get together sometime.

---

I: The Battle of Britain: An Air Ministry Account of the Great Days from 8 August – 31 October 1940.
Air Ministry.  Published by HMSO 1941

II: Their mothers name was Florence Elizabeth.

III: Wikipedia
Stars and stripes. ([Les Mousquetaires d’Ellis Island.] The Musketeers of Ellis Island.) Tales.
Maurice Dekobra (May 26, 1885 Paris – June 1, 1973 Paris) was a French writer. His real name was Maurice Tessier. Seen as a subversive writer in the 1920s and 1930s, he became one of the best-known French writers between the First and the Second World Wars. His books have been translated into 77 languages.

IV: Lord Beaverbrook, Minister of Aircraft Production, released in a radio broadcast that a Radiolocator was an important part of the country’s defence & called for volunteers with radio skills.  Interestingly despite his protests that he would not try to “work out what it is” when called up to the RAF he was trained in Radar.

V: Wikipedia
Hyman Kaplan
Hyman Kaplan, or H*Y*M*A*N K*A*P*L*A*N as he habitually signs himself, is a fictional character in a series of well-received, humorous stories by Leo Rosten, published under the pseudonym “Leonard Q. Ross” in The New Yorker in the 1930s and later collected in two books, The Education of H*Y*M*A*N K*A*P*L*A*N and The Return of H*Y*M*A*N K*A*P*L*A*N. Rosten noted that he was frequently asked if Mr Kaplan was his alter ego, and that he often felt it was the other way around.
The first collection (Education, 1937) was a “close second” for one U.S. National Book Award in 1938. The second collection (Return, 1959) was one of eighteen National Book Award for Fiction finalists in 1960.
The books were adapted as a musical play produced in 1968, namely The Education of H*Y*M*A*N K*A*P*L*A*N.

VI: Wikipedia
The Hut-Sut Song (a Swedish Serenade) is a novelty song from the 1940s with nonsense lyrics. The song was written in 1941 by Leo V. Killion, Ted McMichael and Jack Owens. The first and most popular recording was by Horace Heidt and His Musical Knights. A 1941 Time Magazine entry suggests the song was probably a creative adaptation of an unpublished Missouri River song called “Hot Shot Dawson.

VII: Pinterest
Boa Noite (Good-Night). 1941. Lyrics by Mack Gordon, music by Harry Warren. From the movie “That Night in Rio” starring Alice Faye, Don Ameche and Carmen Miranda.

VIII: http://www.firefightersmemorial.org.uk/index.php/in-memoriam/fire-watchers-fire-guards
Further information at The Firefighters Memorial Trust, Firewatchers and Fire Guards during World War 2.

IX: Wikipedia
Rudolph Cornelius Wiedoeft (January 3, 1893 – February 18, 1940) was a U.S. saxophonist.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, the son of German immigrants, at a young age Wiedoeft started playing with his family orchestra, first using a violin, then a clarinet. He relocated to New York City and switched to saxophone, then still an unusual instrument. He became known as a virtuoso saxophonist during the 1910s, made more than 300 recordings for many different record companies, and did much to popularize the saxophone as an instrument in both the U.S. and overseas. His main instrument was the C melody saxophone, a variety which was immensely popular from the 1910s until about 1930. He also played and recorded sometimes using E-flat alto and B-flat soprano saxophones as well.
His style was noted for very rapid runs of well-articulated notes in between long legato phrases in a ragtime influenced style. The rapidly articulated notes were made possible by the advanced techniques of double-tonguing and triple-tonguing, similar to those used by brass (trumpet, trombone, etc.) players and flutists. He was also known for his style of vibrato, which was very wide during the later years of his playing. 
He remained a very popular entertainer into the 1920s and performed regularly by radio, but his style started to sound more and more dated to the public as his career continued into the 1930s. He worked for a while in Rudy Vallee’s band, then for a while in France. From the mid-1930s on, he essentially stopped playing and was involved in several mining investments that were not successful.
Rudy and his wife Mary Wiedoeft had a difficult relationship partially due to difficulties of maintaining their rather flamboyant lifestyle and alcohol abuse. During 1937, he was nearly killed when he was stabbed by his wife. The couple reconciled, however, and during the same year, Rudy made his last radio performance.
He died in Flushing, New York, on February 18, 1940, from cirrhosis of the liver.

X: The Independent  Aubrey Frank, saxophonist born London 3 June 1921; died London 3 June 1993.
AUBREY FRANK was a prominent member of the generation of British jazz and dance-band musicians that prepared the way for the advent of bebop. Younger instrumentalists such as Ronnie Scott brought the post-war African-American innovations to the wider attention of the jazz-loving public, but the saxophonist Frank was one of the local heroes who can claim considerable responsibility too. Steeped in the professional mores of the dance-band era, he was a world- class player admired by his peers.
Born into a Jewish family in the East End of London, he was forced into a position of early responsibility by his father’s death. He was 11, but his elder brother had married and left home. By the age of 14 ½  he was playing alto saxophone with a junior band at Collins’ Music Hall – a job that lasted a week. A year later, switching to tenor saxophone, he joined the Savoy Junior Band where, in the saxophone section, he met his lifelong friend Harry Conn.
For two decades Frank worked with London’s ‘name’ bands, beginning in 1940 with Jack Harris at the London Casino. He valued the virtues of the great black American swing ensembles of Count Basie and Jimmy Lunceford, and established friendships with black British musicians as well, arranging employment for them when a black face was a rare sight on bandstands. At Hammersmith Palais, where he worked with Eddie Carroll, he found work for the superlative Jamaican saxophonist Bertie King, then joined Geraldo who, as a BBC staffer, made up to nine broadcasts a week.
Gigs overlapped frequently in the early war years and he often dashed between bandstands. For over a year, while in steady employment with Ambrose, he participated in all Ken ‘Snakehips’ Johnson’s broadcasts and recordings, often sitting in with Johnson’s West Indians at their Sunday tea-dances which attracted a more ‘rhythm-oriented’ public and gave him a chance to improvise. When Johnson was killed in the Blitz, Frank introduced several of his musicians to Ambrose who, having lived in the segregated United States, had never visualised employing black musicians.
In November 1941, on the eve of his conscription, Frank took part in EMI’s epochal First English Public Jam Session recording. He temporarily escaped his RAF duties to continue playing for, among others, the musically revolutionary bandleader Lew Stone and the Belgian trumpeter and racing driver Johnny Claes, and was also a member of the early Ted Heath Orchestra.

XI: Bomber Command – The Air Ministry Account of Bomber Command’s Offensive Against the Axis. September 1939 – July 1941  HMSO.  Found with his war memorabilia

XII: 1 Carroll Richard Gibbons (January 4, 1903 – May 10, 1954) was an American-born pianist, bandleader and popular composer who made his career primarily in England during the British dance band era.

XIII: Wikipedia
Joe Daniels (jazz drummer)
Joe Daniels (1908–2003), born in Zeerust, South Africa, was a British drummer and performer whose career began in the early 1920s. Daniels played with Sid Roy (brother of Harry Roy), and formed his own band with Max Goldberg. Around 1930, he started recording as “Joe Daniel’s Hot Shots” (with Billy Mason), and they became a popular recording band Other members in 1937 were; Bill Jones trumpet, Albert Harris clarinet & saxophone, Les Osbourne Trombone, Verne Lewis Piano and John LeBor on Bass. The band performed on BBC radio shows many times. They recorded on Parlophone Records. Bobby King was often the groups vocalist.
At the outbreak of the Second World War, Daniels joined the Royal Air Force where he organised an air force band and produced shows for the troops. After the war and throughout the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, he played in both small and in big bands, including recording under the name “Washboard Joe and the Scrubbers”.

XIV: Wikipedia
Joshua Alexander “Joe” Loss LVO OBE (22 June 1909 – 6 June 1990) was a British musician popular during the British dance band era and was founder of the Joe Loss Orchestra.

Book 29

Thursday 18^th December 1941

This evening I met 2 old friends & made 1 new one.
On Charring X Stn, I met David Randall. He lives at Hornchurch now & he was saying that they used to have quite a good amateur RAF band there during the summer, & when I asked him some of their names he said “well there was Joe Daniels drums 3 & Joe Loss’s pianist 4 & some other chaps from big bands”, !!!!!! ………”Quite a good amateur band”.
We went to the club in the evening.

When we were finishing I saw a chap I thought I knew & I thought – shall I speak to him or not.
However I went up to him – & boy oh Boy am I glad I did. I asked him if he was at Lister Institute just
before war started, he was, & he remembered me once I spoke to him, we were soon talking away
furiously & I got from him the information that Doris Stainsby came back from evacuation about 3
months ago & he said that they still hold a club on Thursday night & that he thinks she goes.  He said that quite a lot of the chaps & girls are home now, Staveley is a messenger in the ARP now.

Anyway I’m going up to Lister next chance I get which is on the 8^th Jan to meet Doris if possible.

Some other chap also spoke to us as he wants to take up some instrument but he didn’t know what to take up, he said that whatever he takes up his father will teach him as he can play almost any instrument & he was in the army band when he was in the army, he taught Eric Tann of the Blue Rockets to play the trombone.

We said the best thing he could take up would be tenor Sax & told him that if we were to enlarge our band that would be the next instrument we would have.

I also found that he was interested in Jazz & has a small collection of discs & I said we will have to get together sometime.

Friday 19^th December 1941

I bought 2 of the jam session discs today.  FDH didn’t have the 3^rd but they will have it tomorrow.

I got “Tea for two” & “Honeysuckle Rose & “I found a new Baby” I also bought Teddy Wilson with Billie Holliday singing “I cried for you” & “I’ll get by”.

In the evening I painted a poster for the St Peters Hall.

That chap from night school called round with 50 fags for me.

Got 2 quid Christmas Box from firm.

Saturday 20^th December 1941

FDH didn’t have that 3^rd disc so I will have to try Monday.  Messed about all afternoon.  Went to St. Peters Hall this evening.

Bed 12.30

Sunday 21^st December 1941

Dad & I went to Laindon today.  I took down my records & went all through the other discs down there I found 2 or 3 good ones & 1 Red Nichols record.^I  I left them all down there. It was frightfully cold. 

Home 6.15.

I finished off a poster for St Peters Hall.

Bed 11.15.

Monday 22^nd December 1941

At the office we all put 2/6 & bought a bowl of flowers for Miss Joseph.

I went to FDH during my lunch hour & paid for my record & asked them to phone me when they had it.

 I bought a book of boogie woogie solos from P.M.

Stayed in during evening.

Tuesday 23^rd December 1941

I took Bert’s drum to the office.

Miss Joseph gave us all a diary & a pack et of fags. FDH came on & said my record was in.  In the afternoon I went to Waterloo to meet Mrs Guedalla & give her her turkey.

About 4.40 Miss Joseph came & said she wanted me to go to Mr Spyer’s flat at Hendon and collect a turkey Mr Spyer had got for her.  So I went up there (she said I could do it & get back in time for the dance).  But when I got there Mrs Spyer’s hadn’t got the turkey ready & I had to go & wait for it in the sitting room with her mother & brother.  They’ve got a newday “Mike”, I got talking to them & told them about our job tonight & they got me playing on their baby grand for a while, I gave them Russian Rose; Oasis, Sweet Sue & Whispering & then they had the turkey ready so I left with a handful of fags she gave me & an invitation to go to Totteridge & play on the big grand from Park Crescent.

I got back at the office at 6.15, Josey  was in a panic thinking I was lost & Bert was waiting for me, I had a wash & then scrammed, when I got downstairs Len & Ron had arrived so we all  piled on to the tube & were round to the White Hart, we set up about 7.30 & soon after that the dinner began & we were asked to sit in with them, we had soup, Ham & Beef with salad & beer, then there was a couple of speakers & then the dance started, they all got blind drunk & most of the fellows got round all the girls who were drunk in fact it was like a Honky Tonk after a while.  The piano was lousy but they liked us & we will get the job if there are any more dances.  

Home at 12.30.

On the way home Len slung his music case against mine & broke my St Louis Blues record, the soppy twerp.

Bed 1 am.

Wednesday 24^th December 1941

I bought a couple of ties today – one of them was Mums birthday present to me.  

We left the office at 4.50 – about an hour & a half earlier than I expected.  Just before I got home Mr Willett had brought mum a chicken that had just been killed & the Butcher had let mum have her weekend joint & then when Dad came in he had another chicken – & last Sunday we were wondering whether we would have to have bread & cheese on xmas day.

After tea I plucked the chicken Mr Willett had brought us.

XMAS DAY

Thursday 25^th December 1941

Up at 11.30.

Ron came round at 12 & said that Dolls brother, Fred, had come home on leave, so of course we told him to bring him round tonight as well.  While he was here Len came down to see what time he & his ma should come down tonight & later I saw Bert & asked him to come in.

Our party eventually was mum, dad, me , Len & his ma, Ron Doll, & Fred.  Ern went up West with Aunt Lilie Doris Les & Joyce & Aunt Maud.

We had a smashing party & eventually broke it up at 4am.

Friday 26^th December 1941

Up at 12.30.

We left for Walters at 3.40.  The party over there was Walter Doris – & Beryl, Ted his father his mother part of the time, some dame who was there about an hour, Fred Rose & their 2 girls Eileen & Edna.

We had a good time & broke it up just before 10 to 2.  Walter brought us home by car & we were indoors just before 5 to 2 & I was in bed just before 2.

Saturday 27^th December 1941

They had a big crowd at the dance tonight & Mum & Dad & Mrs Donovan came & Bob would have made a profit if it wasn’t for the fact that some girl had her bag stolen & he made that up to her.  But we heard another piece of bad news while we were there —- someone broke in the hall & ripped 24 hammers out of the new piano – tore down all the decorations & then used the place as a lavatory.  Bob had to get the police on their track & he says if he catches him he will take him apart.  We have our suspicions who it was, & maybe if it comes out & there is a big flare up – the club will quieten down after it.

Bed 12.

Sunday 28^th December 1941

Up at 1.

Len & I went out in the evening. Len had heard that on Sundays there was a dance at his school so we went there but there was nothing doing so we went round to St Peters & saw one of the chaps there who said there was a dance at this school every Sunday so then we went back but still nothing doing so then we thought we would go skating but there was no skating either so as I had left a piece of music at Walters we went there to collect that then we had a walk through Bush Wood & broke the ice on the pond & then rode home. 

Got home at 9.45 Les Doris & Joyce were there, they asked us all over next Sunday to a party for Albert & Joyce said that Albert wants to take Miss Ashton to lunch one day & asked me to tell her that Joyce would ring her up tomorrow & speak to her.

Ern & I stopped up till 12 playing cards.

Monday 29^th December 1941

I bought myself a watch today.

I’ve decided to change my job & I bought a copy of the Telegraph but there was nothing in it & I couldn’t even find out how much an Ad cost.

In the evening Dad & I drafted an Ad for the paper & then Dad suggested that I should pop down & see Buttle tomorrow so I decided to do so.

Firewatching 2 till 6.

Tuesday 30^th December 1941

During lunch I went down to see Buttle.  He is going to do what he can for me.  He was expecting his son home today & as I left his son (at least I expect it was) came on the phone.

We had a very nice chat & I think he would like to have me back again with him & he says that after the war he & Thurley (Mrs Thurley is very poorly) will be back together again.  He’s got my card & I wouldn’t be surprised to hear from him.

Went to Carlton in the evening & saw George ‘Formby in South American George” very good too.  Also an MOI^II film & a gangster picture.

Wednesday 31^st December 1941

We were expecting Gerald in today but instead of coming in he went to the city to some meetings & said we could go early in case we had to work another night. Left at 4.40.

Bert had his medical today & is exempt.  

Went to dance, they had a lousy crowd & we did more or less as we liked.

Thursday 1^st January 1942

Bloody awful at work, Gerald was in.

Got away at 10 to 6.

Went to the hospital in Balaam St.  We started at ¼ to 8 & finished at ¼ to 1.  We were absolutely super & a dame up there who has 2 brothers Trumpet & Trombone in a West End Band says she may be able to get us a regular Sunday job.

We had an interval of about half an hour & later on we went into the Sisters room & had drinks & cake.  As the papers put it “a good time was had by all”.

I bought some orks^III today.  We got “Lebensraum” “Why don’t we do this more often” “He wants to be a Pilot” & “Every little thing”, “Wrap yourself in cotton wool” & “Tahiti Rendezvous”, “Lonely Serenade “ & “When did it begin” & “Annie Laurie” & “Coming thro’ the Rye”.

Friday 2^nd January 1942

In the evening Len & Ron came & we sorted out all the music & weeded out the stuff we don’t use now.

Bert came later & we all had a talk till about 10.  Bed 11.30.

Saturday 3^rd January 1942

At the office till 1.15

When I got home Fred was there & he stopped till 4.15. I felt lousy & I didn’t think I would go to the dance tonight but when the time came I went & I shook off my lousy feeling & when I got home at 12 I felt o.k.

Sunday 4^th January 1942

Up at 8.40.

Went to school .

I told Mr Richards I want to change my job & he is going to look out for me.   Stayed in during afternoon. In the evening about 7.45 Len came down & we went to his house & had a practice till 10.  Bed 11.15.

Monday 5^th January 1942

Went to the Odeon in the evening & saw Bing Crosby, Mary Martin & Big T in “Birth of the Blues”^IV it was a smashing film & the music was o.k.

Also saw “The 7^th Survivor “& the film of the commando raid on Norway.

Tuesday 6^th January 1942

Albert came to the office today.  

We went to lunch together.

After lunch I began to feel lousy & by the time I got home I felt terrible.  I didn’t have any tea.

Went to music

When I got home I still felt rotten so I got out my gobstick & had a good blow on that & then went to bed without having any supper.

Wednesday 7^th January 1942

I felt fine when I got up in the morning.

Went to the dance in the evening.

Firewatching 10-2.

Ron didn’t turn up tonight & we wondered whether the baby had arrived.

Thursday 8^th January 1942

I shall be going up to Lister this evening – will I meet Doris?

When I got home Freddie was there.  So went up to Lister together when we got there no-one was there & the caretaker told us that during the summer they had had a social dance till blackout time but that stopped when the Blackout got early.

So I am foiled and my only chance of seeing Doris is an accidental meeting.

I took Fred round to Ron’s.  Ron has got a new guitar, the case is a huge thing & the guitar is super.  It is an uralon cello guitar & had a lovely tone.

Saw Bert later on & we had a discussion about the way Len has been going on lately & we decided to have it out with him soon.

Friday 9^th January 1942

Bert & I went round the hospital to see Ron & we had a session upstairs for a while with Piano & guitar.

Saturday 10^th January 1942

Bert & I went up the City this morning & tried to get “My melancholy Baby” but Browns were sold out & FDH had also sold out & couldn’t go to the stock room & get more because they were busy.

We bought “La Cumparsita”.

We spent ages wandering about looking for drums & as a desperate last resource we went to Ebblewhites & the chance came off – they have 2 drums in store at their country place so Bert took details & said he would let them know.

On the way home we discussed Len & what we would do when he joins the Home Guard, and what he is going to do with the music.  So after dinner I went up to his house & gave him his sax piece of “La cumparsita” & told him what I was going to do with my music i.e. write out the lists I want & then if I leave the Band will keep the music I paid for.

I went to Woodmansee’s & bought some collars etc.

Went round Ron’s & saw Bert & Ron & we discussed our campaign in dealing with Len & it was decided that Bert should suggest paying 1/6d a week into a fund for music & we would back him up & Len would be sure to disagree with it & then we could start about the music & then as a further lever we would draw a comparison between Ron & Len, Ron so badly in need of money bags a new guitar – practises hard – gets us jobs & is really keen, which Len – badly needs a new sax but all he talks about is getting a soprano sax which is hardly ever used – doesn’t practise much – he never gets us a job & shows no interest – merely takes his money & sits back & grouses. 

We went to the dance.

During the interval my nose started to bleed & it took about 1 ½ or more to stop it.  The boys really found my value then, there was Len playing a few bits on the piano & another Len – from the club playing a few & Bobs girl Joan playing a few times & when the others were playing Len couldn’t fit in on his sax thus proving conclusively he couldn’t busk for he knew the tunes – but in another key – but he still couldn’t play with anyone else.

My nose stopped at last & I resumed playing.

On the way home we did what we said we would but we got no sense from Len & we are going to let what we said sink in till Wednesday & then have another go at him, & Arthur may be there then.

Saturday 11^th January 1942

Up at 9.30.

Went to school.

 Saw Bert in afternoon & we went up the Greengate & met John & his cousin Cecil.  In the evening we went to the Hospital & Ron showed them his guitar.

We went up the Bridge House after – Bert to see Arthur about the drum because Arthur’s having the new one & Bert’s having his present one,  – & I went up to see the new sax player they have got – & boy what a saxist.  He is the hottest player I have ever heard outside a professional.  He reads & busks & plays counter melody & harmony while busking & when he takes a chorus he sounds like a member of the Radio KC Sextet. He also plays Tenor Clarry Violin & Piano – all swing style I heard him on the piano & he plays better than the real pianist. & to think that a couple of weeks back he offered to go over Lens sax for him & Len turned down the offer.

Arthur is having the new drum so I will call into Ebblewhites tomorrow & get them to bring it up for Bert.

Arthur will probably come on Wednesday.

Monday 12^th January 1942

In the evening Bert & I went round to Ron’s to do some ads for a dance.  We did very little of that but we had a good time talking about various things & we left at 11.30.  It had been snowing & was quite deep.

Tuesday 13^th January 1942

In the evening Bert & I went round to Arthurs & he got out a lot of old diaries from 1927 to 1933 & he went through them telling us of the places he has been.

Besides that we found out things about him we never even dreamed of, when Ted Temme^V was training for his channel swim Arthur used to go with him & he spent many weekends with his family beside which Arthur has played water polo for Plaistow United & has won medals for trick & high diving that explains why he is bald, swimmers always go bald, & also I know now why he is fat, – like Walter he used to go in for P.T. & when you stop it you get fat.  We had a fascinating talk & then while he was showing Bert a few tricks on the drums he let me look through his old Melody Makers that he has had bound & when at 11.30 we left, as I hadn’t even got through 1 he let me borrow 2 to read at home & Bert can let me have others as I go through them.

It had been snowing heavily & was quite thick.

I bought “My Melancholy Baby” but it was a waste of money the only instrument with melody are violin Tenor & Piano & the alto part is written for clarinet.

Wednesday 11^th January 1942

Went to the dance in the evening.  Ron took his new guitar.  The dame that runs it had asked the O.C. an antiaircraft unit to bring his men & when they came just before the interval the place was crowded in fact I think it was about our biggest crowd.  

I wouldn’t be surprised if they turn up again we played till 11 for them.

Thursday 15^th January 1942

Heard from Gerald today.  He arrived home in the morning & he is now stationed at Detling near Maidstone & will be able to come up about once a week.

Bert Len & I went to the club for about 2 or 3 hrs in the evening.

Friday 16^th January 1942

Stayed in & read in the evening.

Saw Bert & arranged to meet him tomorrow at Ebblewhites to get the drum.

Saturday 17^th January 1942

Left the office at 12.25 & met Bert outside Ebblewhites about 5 to 1.

We had a great disappointment.  They evidently thought that Bert was a green horn at the game & the drum they showed him wasn’t what he wanted & when he didn’t love it they got quite insulting over it.

We went to Bourdons in a last vain try but all we got there was a string for Ron & a reed for Len. 

Had a bath in the afternoon.

In the evening we went up the club.  The reed I bought for Len was a super one.  We played till 11.15 & we stayed talking to some of the girls & it was 12.30 when I got home.

Sunday 18^th January 1942

Up at 9.30 went to school.

After dinner I tried to orchestrate Melancholy Baby, as the one we bought is useless.  But I got stuck over some chords so I went rounds to Ron’s to borrow his guitar tutor.  When I got there Bert was there & I eventually stopped some time talking to them.

After tea I recommenced my orchestrating & after I had done most of Ron’s part & started my own I got stuck again so I took my gob strut round to Ron’s  while I played the tune he played the chords to see if they went alright.  They were O.K. too.

Then we got on to trying some other things out & eventually Bert, me, Ron & Doll all went out together.  We first went to see a chap whom Bert wants to get to play drums with us next Saturday so that he can go to a party & then we went to the Bridge House & while the boys had a rest Bert & I had a go on the piano & drums. & we were quite a success & everybody told us we were good.  

Home at 10.45

Monday 19^th January 1942

Bert took a day off & went to Selfridges to see if they still had the drums we saw there 5 weeks ago – they had – & Bert bought a Beverley Cable Drum.  They wanted £17/1//- but Bert got it for £15/15/-.

He met me in Lyons & after I had had my lunch I took him to the office & we fitted it up & tried it out.  It is an absolutely super drum it is 8 inches deep & with the foot pedal you can get about 6 different effects.

When I got home I went to see Bert again. He was going to take the drum for Arthur to see because it had been arranged that Bert was to buy a new drum & let Arthur have it.  Arthur would give him his present drum & the difference in money, but he had said he didn’t want a cable drum.

Bert found himself liking it so much that when he got round there (as he told me later) he said to Arthur” I tried to, but couldn’t get a drum like you wanted, so I’ve bought a cable drum for myself”.

When Arthur tried the drum out Bert could see that he liked it & he then said, “Well Bert, my offer still stands, my drum & the money for this”.

Bert then told me he had been wondering once or twice why Arthur had been willing to exchange his drum (Which before I had seen Bert’s had been the best drum I had ever seen so close up) for one which in all probability was not as good.  Was there something wrong with Arthurs?  So Bert’s reply was “Well Arthur, you said you didn’t want a cable drum & as that was all I could get I got it meaning to keep it myself, I’ve spent all the afternoon on it turning it up & getting it decent”

Anyway the upshot was that Bert kept the drum & Arthur & he parted brass rags^VI although he thinks Arthur will soon come round.  We went and saw Ron & was sorry it had happened as it did but he thinks Arthur will change his mind & he says Bert’s drum is better than Arthurs.

Arthur had promised to lend Bert his collapsible base drum for the weekend when he goes to Johns party & he said the offer still stands.

Tuesday 20^th January 1942

We went to the dance at Barclay Hall we played as we usually do & we had nothing but praise.  A dancing teacher there told us that we had perfect timing. & we have had the offer of 2 jobs from there.  Ron is going up there on Friday to see about 1 & the other one was mentioned by the caretaker of the hall.  Bert’s drum was super.

Home 11.45

Wednesday 21^st January 1942

Went to Cumberland Rd in the evening.

We were absolutely frozen there & if we can get another job or even gigs we will take it & leave the I.C.P. Hut.  In any case you aren’t appreciated there & only get what are supposed to be funny remarks thrown at you.

Thursday 22^nd January 1942

Earlier in the week Bert arranged with the chap we know to come & meet us at the hospital tonight so we can hear him on the drums.  We met him there at 7.15.

At the rehearsal Len was a bit funny (I think he was showing off in front of Fred the drummer).

On the way home we had a dig at him about the music & he climbed down & said he would leave it with us, but I still don’t trust him.  He has joined the home guard now.

Fred is bringing part of his kit round to Lens house tomorrow night.

Friday 23^rd January 1942

Len called down in the evening & asked me to come up for a practice with him & Fred but I wasn’t having any.

He was very enthusiastic about Fred & his kit although he is nothing wonderful.

Bert took his drum to the Bridge house collected Arthurs & I helped him.  On the way we discussed the way Len was acting.  It is ever since Bert has been leader that he has been funny, it’s plain he thinks he should be leader, though what qualifications he thinks he’s got that makes him fit for leader is beyond me.  I said I thought it was quite possible that he would form another band with himself as leader including Fred as drummer & all he has to do is get a pianist ———————if he can.

I said to Bert that it wouldn’t have surprised me had I gone to his house tonight, if he had suggested forming another band with himself as leader but I know what I would have told him.

Arthur was quite O.K. tonight & didn’t say a word about the side drum.

While we were up the B.H. the other chap who is learning the guitar from Don spoke & said he was going to see Ron some night when Don goes in the Air Force & see how they get on together.

But we had a piece of news that was absolutely super & just what the doctor ordered.

Jimmy came up & said “if ever you want a sax player one evening you have only to let me know the night before & I’ll be there”.

What a break when Len is acting the way he is.

We are going to see.

Ron’s Sister at the hospital about the municipal job & say if she gives us £2/10/- we will supply a 5 piece band that will be absolutely super Ron thinks there is a good chance she will agree too.

Saturday 24^th January 1942

I had the morning off.  Got up at 2.15.

Went to West Ham with Bert, his Uncle, his Cousin, & Percy Sculfor.

We saw a wonderful match & West Ham beat the Arsenal by 3 – 0.

After tea Bert went to his pals party & I got ready for the dance.  In Bert’s absence I was Leader.  The evening started off badly.  We got to the Broadway as a bus was changing conductors & we ran for it, Len & I got on & Ron & Fred were left behind. Len & I each had some of Fred’s kit with us.

Ron & Fred walked & then they got there the same time as the bus.

We started fairly well I was on top of my form & Ron was doing fine.  Len was the same as he always is.  Fred is one of those swing drummers no doubt he will be a very good swing drummer when he has had a lot of practice but as one of the chaps said up the club he is not bad but Bert is much better for time & a steady rhythm Len was going into raptures over him.

They have got back the piano that was broken & there is a special device that you have to work now before it will open at the top.  At the rehearsal last Thursday we tried over a couple of waltzes 1 of them Len either wouldn’t or couldn’t play – I think he wouldn’t & the other one he played the vocal & verse.

So I put up the one he could play & got ready to play it.

The next thing I knew he came dashing over & said “What the hell do you mean by playing that thing you know what happened at the rehearsal Thursday” & he was leading off something terrible so I said alright then don’t play it.  Let’s play another instead.

As he went back I heard him say to Fred “That soon settled his bash” “Oh” “I thought “has it, we will see about that”.

Then something went wrong with his Sax & he couldn’t play at all so I put this waltz he couldn’t play up again & played it without him.

When the dance finished I went over to him & told him what I thought & instead off him showing me up in front of Fred I made him look a bloody fool.

I said “When you walked away just now I believe I heard you say to Freddy “That soon settled his bash “Well” I said “If you like to show your incapability of playing a simple waltz I don’t mind but the reason I didn’t play it was because I know that if anyone is certain he can’t play a tune he won’t play it & will spoil the others besides”.  He went absolutely livid & I thought we were going to have a scrap then, but it would have suited me down to the ground he didn’t like it especially because a dame he likes was standing in front of him & I’m sure she heard what I said.

After that he started buggering about so I didn’t bother & the dance was lousy after that.  I let Fred start off one quickstep “The Sheik of Arabi” & we played that at about 70 bars a minute & we gave him a chorus in  By By Blues which started off at a good time & that finished up at about 70 when he started playing.” Len is having him round his house again tomorrow.  I am seeing Ron at the hospital.

Sunday 25^th January 1942

Up at 9.30 went to school. In the afternoon I went to the hospital & I orchestrated “Melancholy Baby” & Ron & I went through a few tunes & I make out some part for Ron.

After tea I went there again after arranging that when Bert came home he would come up the hospital.  He turned up at 5 to 9 & had John & his sister with him they left at 9 & then Ron Bert & I went we met Doll outside & we all went up the B.H. with Arthurs drum.

We told him what happened last night & although I didn’t mention to Ron about Len starting another Band he said he thought he might do that.

We saw Jimmy about his fee & he said that O.K. I just come in with you boys & that suites us fine.  He also offered to look over my Clarry tomorrow if I like to take it up the B.H. about 9.  He also gave us his opinion of soprano sax which didn’t flatter them but even if we tell Len it won’t affect him.

We decided what music to buy.

Monday 26^th January 1942

I bought the Orks of “That lovely Weekend” “Do I worry” “Time Was” & Shepperd Serenade” “I walked into a Dream”.

In the evening Bert Ron Doll & I went up to the Bridge House with my gobstick^VII I had taken the music round to Ron’s & from there I had taken it to the B.H. & up there was Pat Dodge Ex Sylvester Pianist now in an RAF band & Bert (The pianist at the B.H.) tried out a couple of my tunes & then Pat Dodge used them so now the Melody Makers Library has been used by one of Victor Sylvester’s men.

Jimmy says my Clarry is an old army instrument but he is not sure whether it is high or low pitch, however he has taken the stick, the 2 mouthpieces & the reeds & he is going to test it out at home (it was OK when he played it at the B.H.) & if it is sharp pitch he will alter it to flat pitch.

Tuesday 27^th January 1942

When I got home my K.P. book on Boogie Woogie had at long last arrived.  It is a very good book indeed.  I think I’ll get the P.M. book tomorrow.

Went to music.

Wednesday 28^th January 1942

Ron is now a father.  Doris went away Tuesday morning & she had her daughter at 10 last night. & boy! Did we celebrate while we were at the dance we played “Daddy” & “Why don’t we do this more Often” to celebrate & everything we played was swing.

On our way home we left our stuff at the hospital ready for tomorrow night all except Len who won’t be coming as he says he has to go to the Home Guard.

Mum & Dad are going to see “Babes in the Wood” at the Stoll^VIII tomorrow evening so I am not going home but will go to the hospital direct from Plaistow Stn.

Thursday 29^th January 1942

I went to the Hospital Ron & I did some practicing but Bert didn’t turn up so at 9.30 we went.  We called at his house & his mother said he was in bed.  He was taken bad when he got home last night & kept being sick. We went in and saw him.

I am going to see Ron tomorrow night.

Friday 30^th January 1942

Bert was no better today so when I saw him in the evening I asked him if we should get the other drummer we decided I should.

So I went to Ron’s house & he came with me.  We first went to Lens & asked him if he had seen or was going to see Fred, but he hadn’t & wasn’t.  So he came with us & we went to Fred’s house.  His mother said he was out, that he had lent his kit to someone, & that he had arranged to go to a dance with a friend who was coming up to see him from Dagenham, anyway we arranged Len would see him tomorrow afternoon.

Then we went on to the Bridge Hse & Jimmy got Len to play his Sax & I was on the piano, Jimmy also has got him to go round his house on Monday or Tuesday the week after next & I will take him.

Saturday 31^st January 1942

Mrs Clay called me during the afternoon because Fred had called to see Bert & they wanted to see me.

We arranged in the end that Fred would collect the kit from the hospital & we would meet at Lens at 7 & all go together.

I registered today.  There wasn’t much in it.  Just a few particulars were written down & a form given to me saying I would receive a letter to go for an appointment.

I did most of the orchestration of “My Melancholy Baby”.  Fred brought his pal with him.

It was bloody awful playing Len was up to his silly tricks messing about like a kid instead of acting like a member of a band.

To see the way he acts no one would think he is only 2 months younger than me.

Fred was running in front all the time & kept getting off beat.

Bert went for a job “2 or 3 nights a week local” that was in Stratford Express & so they wanted to know where we could be heard he put St Peters Hall & we saw a man & 2 girls there & we are sure that they were the people & they walked out soon after the interval.

Sunday 1^st February 1942

Went to school.  In the afternoon I finished the orchestration of Melancholy Baby.

Ron & I saw Bert in the evening & we arranged that Ron would get time off Wednesday & play the drums instead of Fred & he will also play on Thursday.

Monday 2^nd February 1942

My P.M. book on Boogie Woogie came by post this morning.  

Len brought back my music.

Went to music.

Saw Bert & Ron after.

Bert said that when Len came in he asked him how he was & when Bert said he wouldn’t be able to play this week he said that he would go and tell Fred then Bert told him about Ron playing & didn’t like it much.  He asked Bert if anyone had been putting ideas in his head.  If he says anything to me about it I shall tell him what I think about Fred’s drumming.

I wonder if he had someone at his house last night trying him out for a pianist.

Bert gave Ron a lesson in drumming & I finished except for Ron’s part, Melancholy Baby.

Wednesday 4^th February 1942

When we saw Len tonight he started about Fred not playing tonight but I soon quietened him.

We packed up fairly early & took our kit to the hospital for tomorrow night.

Thursday 5^th February 1945

Went to the hospital dance.  Ron played drums & was much better than I expected – he even took breaks.

Friday 6^th February 1942

Saw Bert in the evening.  He is up now but he can’t go out till next week.

Saturday 7^th February 1942

Got “Concerto for 2” backed with “Some Chicken some Rock”.

Met Len at 1.15 and after some lunch we went to see “Get a load of This” we had a super seat & the show was excellent & we had a very enjoyable afternoon.

I absolutely avoided the band except when Len said the Home Guard was disbanding its present band as from last Wednesday & were reforming this week. He said he doesn’t think he’ll join them even if they ask him so I said, “Well that is a matter for you to decide it is not for other people to advise you”.  He said they have Piano Drums Trumpet alto & Tenor & they all busk.

When I got home I had tea & then went into Bert’s house to congratulate Stan & Ivy.  I played the piano Bert had his side drum & Ron his guitar.  When Len arrived it was time to go to the dance.

Len was funny again & he said his mouth was hurting him & he only played about 2 tunes after the interval & Ron & I enjoyed ourselves.

When we had finished Bob made an announcement to the club he said, “As you all know it was decided that if we got a poor crowd we would dispense with the band from tonight but we have had a good crowd so I will give you one more chance, if we have a good crowd next week the band stays if not it goes”.

That was the first we knew of it.  I’m sure we won’t be there after next week though because a lot of the boys have got together & they are all learning instruments & I think they’ll have them to play up there.

Book 30

Sunday 8^th February 1942

Went to school.  Mr Richards wanted to know whether I would be going in for the intermediate exam but I said I wouldn’t unless I had a job where I was using my knowledge.

Up about 12.30 Ron called & we both went to see Bert.  We told him what happened & Ron then said that he heard a chap playing a sax in the house next to where Cherry’s used to live & he said he was good but of course he doesn’t know whether he is in a band already.

I saw Bert again in the afternoon.

In the evening I sorted out all our extra parts into their different instruments so I’ll have to get the extra sax fonts of no’s 1 & 2 back from Len so as to complete the sets.

Ron & I went up the club for a while Len wasn’t there although we had expected he would be. 

I bathed when I got home.

Monday 9^th February 1942

I put an ad in the Daily telegraph today it cost 15/6d so I won’t bother to tell Dad unless anything comes from it.

I saw Ron in the evening & we wrote the words of some songs in a book I’ve got for that purpose so that Ron can learn them.

Tuesday 10^th January 1942

Dad phoned me up to say he had heard a firm of accountants who want someone & either he would ring me again when he had the details from the person who told him or I would be phoned by the firm

I heard again from Dad he said the firm is Evans Smith Boothroyd & Co of 19 Fenchurch St.  So I am going up there in my lunch hour.

I went to the accountants.  I saw one of the junior partners & after taking down details he said he would consult his partner & they would write to me.

Went to music in the evening.  Saw Bert he had a telegram from Bob saying, “Cancel Saturdays engagement letter following”.

I showed it to Len he didn’t seem surprised at it, but then neither was I very surprised.  

He came out with a tall one as I left.  He said that he had been on guard all the previous night.

I went & saw the baby.  Mother says that it looks like Ron but to me it looks like nothing on earth.  

I showed Ron the telegram.

On the way home I saw a “glow in the sky & crackling sound like gunfire a long way away & when I went into Bert to let him have the ‘gram he said a plane had gone over very low, as we were speaking there was a terrific bang & when I went out there wasn’t a trace of a glow in the sky.

Dad & I had a talk about clothes & I decided that I would go to his shop tomorrow & get a hat & be measured for an overcoat.

Wednesday 11^th February 1942

Up early.

That glow & explosion I heard was an R.A.F plane that crashed in a Leytonstone Street & killed 9 people.^IX

The explosion was the petrol tank going up.

Went to dads shop, he measured me for a coat & I bought a hat.

At lunch I bought a pair of gloves & 2 ties.

Went to the dance.  We had the worst crowd ever.  Len only played a few tunes & then he said his cough wouldn’t let him play so Ron & I played alone & then another note on the piano went & so the old dame said we could use the other piano but that was out of tune.

She didn’t want to pay us 30/- but I got it from her & after seeing Ron & Len I chucked the job up so we won’t be there anymore.

On the way home the long awaited explosion arrived & we told Len what we thought of the way he has been treating us lately.  He didn’t have a word to say for himself either, but before he went in he said he had to make a decision before he said anything.  Tomorrow night Ron & I have to call in to collect some music off him & I expect his ma & pa will have something to say about tonight but let ‘em all start, now it boiled up we’re ready for anything.  We called in & told Bert what happened.

Thursday 12^th February 1942

Len came down this evening & Ron followed him in.  Len wanted to see Bert as well.  We all went in & when we came out Len was not in the band anymore. “He wasn’t going to practice 3 nights a week” & a few other moans & it was all over.  We get back our music etc & he gets his dues & were all satisfied. – except maybe Len.

Ron & I went to the hospital & practised & we went through 45 tunes & all Ron couldn’t sing was 5 which is much better than I thought he would do.  I was firewatching 2 till 6 & I stopped up all night.

Friday 13^th February 1942

Ron & Doll brought the baby round. We saw Bert.

Saturday 14^th February 1942

I got a reply from the advert today. I got 8 letters but 1 was from an agency so I had 7 jobs offered.

I rang up the 3 best ones but I could get no reply from any of them – as I hoped.

I had a haircut.

Washed & got ready to go with mum to the wedding.

On the way to Romford I called in Erns shop with our present for him to take & arranged that if they asked us to stay I would ring him up.

We eventually got to the church & saw them married Joyce & Doris had instructions to bring us back to the house.  Mum rode & I walked with one of the chaps. I phoned Ern & arranged about dad & he’s coming over.

Harold Edie & the bridesmaids & the Best Man went to the photographers & came back then.

We had a super party. One of the girls had a load of music & I played for a long while.  We had a load of games & we had altogether a super timer.  

Edie’s father was a funny old cuss.

Sunday 15^th February 1942

Nobody really went to bed but some of them had a few hours sleep in any odd place.  There was a gallery of sleeping beauties in the kitchen & upstairs in the bedrooms.

After breakfast about 12 Ern & Joyce & I went for a walk. We went to Romford & back & we were out till 3.  Had dinner about 4 & about 5.45 Harold & Edie went by taxi to the Strand Palace Hotel.

They got a good send off. 

All their things in the case they took were sewn up & filled with confetti & on the bag was chalked AISLE ALTER HYMN. We tied tin cans on the back as they came out we drenched them with confetti.

Going home there was Dad Mum Ern Me Joyce Aunt Lily & Aunt Maud.

I called on Ron Bert was there stopped for about an hour.

Bed 10.

Monday 16^th February 1942

I went to Aldgate East & from there I went to Shoreditch High St & then made my way to Bethnal Green Rd to the first firm, Fairbrother Ellis but then I was asked to call back on Saturday as they were busy but I had already decided I wouldn’t go there.

I caught a bus to the Bank & went to Austin Friars & saw the 2^nd firm Hope Agar &Co.^X

I liked the place & the chap I saw was very nice & he arranged to phone E.J for a reference at 12 today.

When Jose got in I told her about it.  She said she was very sorry I was going & I said that I was sorry to go but I was thinking of the future etc etc.

I had spoken to the chap about leaving & he said he would arrange that with E.J. & they decided I should stop here for 3 weeks so that Miss B will be back from her holiday & if they have got someone else I will have been able to show him around.

The labour exchange sent 1 boy round but I don’t know whether he is coming or not & I arranged to go into Lister tomorrow morning.

Bert & I went to see Bob tonight.  We found him round the club packing up with some other chaps he said he would sent the money as soon as he could.

He said Len had been there Thursday & was coming again tonight but he hadn’t told him he had left us.

We called in Lens, he was in bed with a cold.  I got one piece of music from him & Bert got his record back.  He said he saw Bob but said it was “Private Business”

Bed 10.30

Tuesday 17^th February 1942

Had a letter from Hope Agar & Co confirming that I would start there on March 9^th.  

Bert & I went to get the music from Len, but he didn’t give us 34, 59 & the extras of 1 & 2.

Walter called with news of a job.  Teds sister is getting married on March 7^th & they are having a hall & want a band, so we are doing it for 30/-.

I went to the hospital & Ron & I wrote a verse for his song & went through the others to see which he could sing.

Thursday 19^th February 1942

Bert Ron & I had a good practice at the hospital. Bert & I spent £1.13.11d on music today we got “Barcarolle” “Speak to me of Love” “Charlie Kurri Medley” “Gay’s medley” “Chattanooga Choo Choo” “Annabelle Lee” “Lullaby to a Hero” “Circus Parade” “If you were beside me”.

Friday 20^th February 1942

Bert & I went to the Bridge House.

We saw Jimmy & he is going to play for us & also get us a Tenor Sax.

Saturday 21^st February 1942

Late home. Bert & I went to Ron’s in the evening.

Sunday 22^nd February 1942

Bert & I practised during the afternoon & evening.

I was firewatching 10 to 2 so I had a bath.

Monday 23^rd February 1942

Ron & Bert saw Jimmy in the evening & arranged for him to come to the hospital on Wednesday.

Tuesday 24^th February 1942

Went to music.

Bert saw Len & got all the music except “I love the Moon”.

Wednesday 25^th February 1942

Jimmy didn’t turn up with the Tenor as he said he would so at 9.15 we packed up & went to the Bridge House.  Jimmy was there & he said he hadn’t come along because the Tenor hadn’t turned up. Arthur was there & he said on the quiet that Jimmy is funny about turning up at places.

Thursday 26^th February 1942

Ern got me a pipe & some tobacco as I asked him to.  The first pipe I had nearly killed me but it got rid of most of the taste & the 2^nd one was much better.  Mum & Dad went to see “Gangway”.

Friday 27^th February 1942

Stayed in during evening.

Saturday 28^th January 1942

Home early.

Mum wasn’t very well so I did most of the shopping.

She went to bed a 6 & Dad went up about 9. I saw Bert.

Sunday 1^st March 1942

Dad called me at 9 & I went to school. Mum & Dad each tried to get up about 1 but they had to go back to bed. 

I saw Bert in the afternoon.  Ern was queer as well but he got up about 7.

Ern Bert & I repaired the pedal of Bert’s bass drum which has gone wrong.

I went to bed about 11 but Ern said he wouldn’t go up as he wouldn’t feel like getting up if he did & he has to do stocktaking by Tuesday.

Monday 2^nd March 1942

Ern got me up at 8 & he went about 8.45.

I phoned the doctor & he came about 12.30.  Mum has had the flu but she is getting over it now.  He said Dad has got congestion of the lungs.  I had to get some M&B & 93 tablets for Dad but he couldn’t take them & he had to have Kaolin Poultices & I had to go to the doctors in the evening for medicine for mum.  I was kept busy all day but still I don’t mind that.

Tuesday 3^rd March 1942

Mum got up for a few minutes today.

Ern came home this evening so I went & saw Ron for a few minutes with Bert.

Wednesday 4^th March 1942

Mum got up today & I went to work. I was very busy at the Courts & the registry.

Home early.

Doctor said today that Dad has bronchial pneumonia & he may have to go away.

Ern had rung up Joyce today & told her & Lily & Joyce came over.  

Bert had been helping mum by doing errands & he was in when they came.  Joyce invited him over to the wedding with his drums.

Thursday 5^th March 1942

Dad seemed a bit better in the morning.

Bert rang me up in the afternoon & said that the Dr said if he goes on as he is he won’t be shifted but if he gets worse he will have to go away.

We had a dance at the hospital.  Jimmy played with us & although we were good I didn’t know what to do when Jimmy was playing because of the difference between Len & he.  With Len I knew I had to nurse him along but I didn’t know whether to just vamp to Jimmy or fill in or what to do.

Home at 12.

Dad seemed a little bit worse tonight & has been delirious again.

Friday 6^th March 1942

Dad was a bit better again this morning.

My last day at work.

Ern got Joyce to try & get some fruit from Victoria but she was unsuccessful.

Saturday 7^th March 1942 

Had a haircut & went all the errands in morning & afternoon.

Walter called for us & we went to Ron’s house & collected him & he took us to the dance.

It wasn’t bad at all except for the piano which was lousy.

Home at 12.

Dad was rather bad & had been talking about money & Mum had been getting on about the money Walter owed Dad so Ern & I decided to go & see Walter tomorrow about it.

Sunday 8^th March 1942

Today is the vital day for Dad. He was very bad in the night & in the morning I didn’t go to school but I went out & phoned Walter & arranged to meet him at his garage at 3.30.

We made an excuse to mum & we went out. Walter was a few minutes late & when he did come we had a good talk & I think that it had done some good.

Dad began to get more peaceful in the evening & he had sleeps of a few minutes when he didn’t ramble.

Joyce & Doris came over & they Ern Bert & I played cards till 11.15 when they went.

Dad gradually had longer sleeps all evening.

Monday 9^th March 1942

Dad was definitely better this morning although he was very weak.

Got to the new office at 9.15.  It is quite decent there & I’ve only had 1 job all day & I’ve not finished that yet – I had to go through 2 books & cast them.^XI

Saw Bert in the evening.

Tuesday 10^th March 1942

I went to Coates for the whisky they promised Dad but they were sold out till next Monday.  Stopped in during evening.

Dad is getting better every day.  He had something to eat today.

Wednesday 11^th March 1942

Saw Ron in the evening.

I went out today for the first time, to a stockbrokers where we did bank reconciliation statements.  I went with Miles

Thursday 12^th March 1942

Ern came to the college with us.

The 2 Sax didn’t come but sent trumpet & tenor & it was lousy the blank M.C. didn’t anything about what he was doing.

Still the less said the better.

While I was at lunch I met Sylvia Shovensky, who used to go to Lister.

Friday 13^th March 1942

Tomorrow is my Saturday off.

I went to the pictures with Ern at the Premier we saw “Ride em Cowboy” with Bud Abbott & Lou Costello & the other film was “Flying Cadets”.

Firewatching 10 to 2.  Saw Bert he & Ron have decided we ought to change our name & they decided on Bobcato & I’m quite in agreement.  Change name change luck.  We will have to alter the banner now thought.

Saturday 14^th March 1942

Had a letter from Guedalla’s asking where something had been put I will ring them Monday.

I helped mum a lot.

About 4 Bert & I went down Green St to look in the Carlton stores for a collapsible drum or a cover for a cymbal.  But they had nothing. 

Then we went to East Ham & Bert had a brainwave he said let’s see Eddie Similton he’s at the station at the back of the Town Hall so we saw him & it was luck.  He put us on to an alto who might be able to get a tenor & he told us that he was doing a dance tonight as the band does jobs sometimes.

Bert & I went to the dance in the evening & in the end we fixed up Les Wilson to play alto for us on Monday.

CHANGE NAME CHANGE LUCK !!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ron can get the loan of a trumpet for Ern & Ern said he would like to borrow it.

Sunday 15^th March 1942

Went to school.

Saw Ron and asked him to get the trumpet.

In afternoon I turned out a lot of wastepaper from my desk.

In evening Bert & I went to Ron’s house.

Home 10

Had a bath

Bed 12.15.

Monday 16^th March 1942

We started at the Cave tonight. We had to walk there from East Ham Station & got there at 7.15.

Les Wilson was outside.  I must say the place is far better than I even expected & it really looks very nice.

We did very well really & Les was a super timekeeper.  There were only a few people there however & he made a loss of about £2 or move I imagine.

Ron brought the trumpet round & when I got home I found that Ern had learnt to blow it – in fact he showed me how to blow it.

Tuesday 17^th March 1942

Went to music.

Afterwards I sorted out some stamps.

I joined a library today & I got “The Dance Band Mystery” by Ray Sonin. 

Wednesday 18^th March 1942

I sorted out stamps in the evening. 

Thursday 19^th March 1942

 Went to library & got “Vinegar & Brown Paper” by J.P. Carstairs.

Went to Premier & saw “Hellzapoppin” & “In the rear of the enemy”

Friday 20^th March 1942

Went to the cave in the evening. We had an NFS chap named Tommy Wrentham he was smashing & we played super.

In the interval I met a chap who used to be at Lister & he told me he had been going out with Kathleen Candron & I asked him to find out whether Doris Stanisky was home, he has promised to do his best for me.

Home at 1 am.

Saturday 21^st March 1942

I bought 2 quid’s worth of music from Browns. I got “When I love I love” “Baby Mine” & “When I see an Elephant Fly” “When this Crazy World is Sane Again” “Bye Bye Blues” “When your Somebody” “Margie” “In the Mood” “Oasis” “Whispering” “In an old fashioned Town” “Sweet Sue” “Lady Be Good” & “Dark Town Strutters Ball”.

We started at the Royal Naval Club tonight it’s not bad there but I don’t like clubs.

We saw Molly & Joyce there & there were one or 2 others from the club.

Sunday 22^nd March 1942

Went to school.

Richards taught me about logarithms today & I entered for the exam. 

I didn’t feel too good in the afternoon & when we saw Ron at the club he said he had been in bed all day.  We had a pretty good time & were home at 11.30.

I had a tot of whisky & a cup of hot milk when I got in bed as mum was afraid I was catching the ‘flu.

Dad sat in a chair in the bedroom most of today I expect the doctor will let him come down tomorrow.

Monday 23^rd March 1942

Dad did come downstairs today.

Jimmy Dicks played with us at the cave & he will do it for us regularly – he says.

I met a chap who used to be at Lister by the name of Johnny Knape & he goes out with Kath Condron & I got her number to ring up to see if she knew if Doris Stanisky. Home 11.45

Tuesday 24^th March 1942

I rang up Kathleen Condron but she didn’t know anything about Doris.

Went to music.

Wednesday 25^th March 1942

Stayed in all night.

Mr Webster came.

I bought a slide rule today.

Thursday 26^th March 1942

Dad went out for a while this afternoon.

 I went to Ilford Hippodrome & saw Ambrose’s Merry Go Round with George Shearing Ann Shelton & a load of other stars.

Friday 27^th March 1942

Jimmy didn’t turn up at the Cave till 8.

He found out we want an amplifier & he phoned the boss’s son at the Bridge Hse & said he would let us have one for £12.

Saturday 28^th March 1942

Up at 10.30.

Went up the Bridge House with Ron & Bert.

We got a super amplifier. The mike alone is worth £5.  It is on a stand & that is the only drawback.  The mike won’t screw in the top of the stand & we have to fix it.

Ron fixed it up round his house & we took it to the R.C.C. & used it there.

Ron did a good bit of crooning.

Sunday 29^th March 1942

Up 9.30. went to school. Doris & Joyce came over. Joyce is 21 today.

After dinner Bert & I went round Ron’s & we messed about with the amplifier.

The mike was so powerful that when we put it on the windowsill we could hear the kids talking abut 25 yards away quite plainly.

Molly & Joyce came to the club & Bert & I got dates for Thursday.

I’ve got Molly, & Bert’s got Joyce (Woo Woo)

Monday 30^th March 1942

Played at Cave in evening

Tuesday 31^st March 1942

I went down to Feltham today to General Aircraft.

There were 7 of us. We get a free lunch there.

After lunch we walked all over the factory & had a look at the airfield.  I saw quite a lot of fighters & there were some huge gliders with tanks already in them.

In evening I went with Bert to Bobs house but he was out.

Wednesday 1^st April 1942

Went to General Aircraft.

I went to the Premier & saw “Dumbo” & “Obliging Young Lady”

Thursday 2^nd April 1942

G.A. again.

Played at the Hospital. Took Molly & Joyce home & Bert & I arranged to see them tomorrow at the Carlton.

Friday 3^rd April 1942

Ern & Bert got me some music they got me “Do you Care” “Shrine of St Cecilia” “Sailor with the Navy Blue Eyes” “You Bring out the Boogie Woogie in me” “Madelaine” “I know Why” “If I Could Print a Memory” “Apple Blossom Time” “Jim” “Rustic Rhapsody” & “Greetings From You”.

Had a good practice.

Bert & I went to the Carlton but the girls didn’t turn up so we came home. I read a book.

Saturday 4^th April 1942

Up late.

Saw Ron in afternoon.

Went to the Club in evening. Home at 12. Ern & Albert were in.

They went to bed at 2.30 I went up at 3 after clearing up all the things.

Sunday 5^th April 1942

Up at 9.

I was the first to be ready Ern & Albert weren’t ready till 12.45 & Walter called at 1. We went to Forest Gate & picked up Doris & the baby.

When we got to Homerton we put the drums in the house & then Albert Ern, Bert, me, & a couple of others went round to church.

All through the service Beryl kept us all in fits of laughter because of her antics.

When we got back we had a stand-up meal.

There were some smashing bits of stuff there. Doris brought a girl who worked with her named Joyce & there was some girls from Joyce’s place there. Ern had a bit of stuff who is 37 & it seems he has been out with her before.  I hope she doesn’t get him.

About 11 I got Doris on my lap in the sofa for about ½ an hour & afterwards I got her friend Joyce for a time.

Later on I had them both at once – luverly – some of them went out for a walk about 3.30am. when Stan & Joan got back they said a policeman followed them.  I suppose it was because Stan in his RAF clothes was wearing slippers.

About 4.30 Doris & Joyce said they would like to go out so Bert & I were going to take them but unfortunately another Bert – a sailor (actually Edie’s brother) said he would come & although he said he would go by himself when he found he split a foursome of course we didn’t let him & in the end he had Joyce & Bert & I had Doris.

We lost the sailor & Joyce once but they got home just after us & then we had another short walk.  When we got back I got some drinks & we made sandwiches in the kitchen & then we started a necking party.  The sailor Bert pinched a crate & sat on that with Joyce in his arms & I sat on the floor with Joyce on me. We had our back to the door so no one could surprise us.

Ern & this dame he was with came down once to see what was going on & we said we didn’t interrupt your necking so please leave us alone.

I had a smashing time with Doris. I know the poor kid misses Les & someone has to make up.  I wish she didn’t live at Homerton or I wouldn’t mind taking her out.  If she does marry Les in May I think he will be the luckiest block going for she is a girl in a million.

Monday 6^th April 1942

I had a couple of hours sleep in a chair and woke up at 10 so I had a wash & till dinner we just messed about.

Everything would have been marvellous but during dinner Bert had a fit.  It wasn’t very bad but it was bad enough luckily Walter came over & he took us home, on the way we left the drums at the Cave.

We played there with Tommy Wretham.  They had to shut the door and keep them out back.   Because of one or two tunes it was bloody lousy.

Home at 12.15

Tuesday 7^th April 1942

A new chap started today.  

Went to music in evening I shall go on Thursday now starting from next week.

Saw Bert.

Wednesday 8^th April 1942

Went to Browns & bought “St Bernard’s Waltz” & “I come I saw I congaed.

Stayed in during evening.

Thursday 9^th April 1942

Stayed in during evening.

Friday, 10^th April 1942

Played at Cave in evening.

Pretty good night.

Missed last bus & had to get Walter to bring us home.

Saturday 11^th April 1942

Played at R.N.C.

The old boy behind the bar has good a dislike for us because he wants a pal of his in there, & he has got rid of us for Sundays & we will get 12/6d Saturdays but he is trying to call a meeting to get rid of us for Saturday.

Sunday 12^th April 1941

Up at 12.

Saw Ron in afternoon. Bert Ron Doris & I went to the Bridge House & saw Jimmy in the evening.  He was quite eager to come back to us.

Stayed at Ron’s till 11

Monday 13^th April 1942

Played at Cave with Tommy Wretham.  We were super.

But the old boy wants to chuck us out because of changing saxes but if he likes to pay us another 12/6. Tommy can get us a Tenor double Violin & they will be able to do Mondays & Fridays.

Home at 12.15.

Tuesday 14^th April 1942

I met Doris this morning.

I met her on the platform she came back from Oxford last August & lived at Forest Gate till a couple of weeks back.  Now she is local & goes to work from Plaistow.

Actually I couldn’t think of much to say to her but I mean to meet her tomorrow and ask her to come to Ilford Hipp with me.

Wednesday 15^th April 1942

Stayed in during evening as Doris couldn’t come out with me.

Thursday 16the April 1942

Rang up Doris & got her to come to the Ilford Hippodrome.  Had a pretty good time there.

She lives at No 1 Russel St.

Home 11.

Friday 17^th April 1942

Saw Doris in the morning.

Played at Cave we didn’t have a sax player but we did very well.

Saturday 18^thApril 1942

We played at Balaam St school & were very successful.

A RAF boy there is a smashing guitarist who had played in bands & broadcast.

Sunday 19^th April 1942

Went to Laindon with Mum & dad.

Had a busy day & got home at 10.

Monday 20^th April 1942

Met Doris but she said she was going out tonight so I didn’t ask her to come out with me.

Saw Ron.

Tuesday 21^st April 1942

During lunch I went to Incorporated Accountants Hall & got their syllabus for the Prelim exam.  It is pretty stiff.

When I went to school I saw Richards about it.  He wasn’t very hopeful about it but he said you may as well try for it.

So I want to get the name of the school Doughty goes to for his teaching.

Wednesday 22^nd April 1942

In the evening Bert & I went to Ron’s place. We had a smashing time, Doll had on a very short dress that buttoned all the way down & we bet her & Bert that they wouldn’t undo all the buttons on her dress & his flies & they took us on.

Bert was lucky it wasn’t poking out.

Doll didn’t have much else on so we didn’t miss much.

I came off better thought because I had Doll on my knees for about half an hour. If the others hadn’t been there I would certainly have got somewhere.

Thursday 23^rd April 1942

Went to music.

Afterwards I saw Bert

Friday 24^th April 1942

Bert & I went to the Cave.  Ron didn’t feel well.  Tommy came. The old boy had engaged another band so we were not  wanted, we got our money though.

We saw Ron after.

Saturday 25^th April 1942

Today was my day off but as I had a job to finish for Mr Agar I went in to finish it.

Bathed in afternoon.

In evening we played at Balaam St & had a jam session.

Book 31

Sunday 26^th April 1942

Went to Laindon

Monday 27^th April 1942

Had a bad nose bleeding at work.

Tuesday 28^th April 1942

Had 2 nose bleedings at work.  I left at 5 had another when I got home.  Went to Dr Kyndt he gave me a letter for London Hospital.  Went to Ron’s when I got home.

Wednesday 29^th April 1942

Stayed in during evening.

Thursday 30^th April 1942

Went to London Hospital.

I was waiting from 9 till 2 & of all the boring things that was the worst.

However when I saw the doctor he soon got on with the job, he tested my blood pressure & had a look at my nose & gave me some ointment which he said will draw the mucous membrane together & maybe stop it altogether.

Home at 3.

Mrs Lifer called & gave us a strong invitation to call & see her.

When to music & the saw Ron.

Friday 1^st May 1942

I bought “Time on my Hands” today.

In evening Bert & I saw Jimmy & asked him about the Clarry & he arranged to meet us at 12.30 outside FD & H tomorrow.

Saturday 2^nd May 1942

Bert & I left at 8.45.  

Bert put an ad in the Daily Telegraph.

Went to several shops but Bert couldn’t get any drum stuff.  We rang up Bourdons & he said he had some stuff.

We went to Chappell’s & joined the club we got “Dream Dancing” “2 in love” “My hearts with a Convoy” “My Paradise” “Strolling Round Leicester Square” “My Mother would love you” “Swing Bugler” “How do I know it’s real” “If I painted a Picture” & “Day Dreaming”.

Also got “Harlem” “Night & Day” “Sympathy “Giannina Mia” “Softly as in a morning sunrise”.

Went to Browns & got “Soft Shoe Shuffle” “Temptation Rag” “Canadian Capers” & “Dream Rover”.

I bought the piano parts of “Whistlers Mother in law” “Spring is here again” & “This is no laughing matter”.

We played at Balaam St with Tommy & a Tenor who is in the N.F.S.

What a band.  We’ve never been so good.

We’re having them next Saturday.

Jimmy Dacks didn’t turn up to see us at FD & H & we were there from 12 till 1.

Sunday 3^rd May 1942

Up at 11.  Mum & Dad went to Laindon.

Spent most of the day round Ron’s.

Monday 4^th May 1942

I haven’t seen Doris for over a week.  After asking her to come out so many times & being refused I came to the conclusion she didn’t want me but I must try to see her again & have a last try.

We had a firewatchers meeting.  It certainly was more business-like than the others & several resolutions were passed.

I was on duty 2 till 6.

Tuesday 5^th May 1942

Went to Night school in evening.

Wednesday 6^th May 1942

I saw Doris this morning & didn’t have the guts to ask her out.

I shall have to try to get her to come to our dance on Saturday if possible.

Went round Ron’s.  Bert has tried to get Ron into Scholl’s & Scholl’s want Ron to go for an interview.

We developed one of my films & also started to make some music covers.

Thursday 7^th May 1942

Saw Doris again.

In evening I went to music.

Afterwards Bert & I went to the Odeon & saw Bud Abbott & Lou Costello in “keep em Flying” & “Man at Large”

Friday 8^th May 1942

We did the job Mary got us.

The piano was lousy & Tom wouldn’t turn his sax up but we managed alright & they said we were very satisfactory.

We dropped the gear at Balaam St.

Saturday 9^th May 1942

I made 8 music covers out of an old case today.  

We played at Balaam St.

Sunday 10^th May 1942

We all went to Laindon.

We got a good bit of work done.

Walter Doris Beryl & Ted came down about 6 & brought us home.

I went & saw Bert.

Monday 11^th May 1942

Bert is going after a job today so he came with me.

He didn’t get a job. He came to lunch with me.

We went round to Taborns in Eldon St & Bert bought a Zildjian^XII for 35/- & I bought “Georgia” “Honeysuckle Rose” “Goodnight Sweetheart” & “Bugle Call Rag”.

Bert & I had a practice.

Tuesday 12^th May 1942

Went to night school Doris & Len called in the evening.

Wednesday 13^th May 1942

Went to East Ham Palace the only good turn was the Tom Patz saxophone.

Got “Maryoneta” “Hy Ho the Merry Oh” “In an 18^th century Square” & “Flamingo” from Chappells.

Thursday 14^th May 1942

Got Anniversary Waltz from Chapple’s.

Went to hospital they gave me some more stuff to use for 6 weeks & then call back.

Work at 11.30.

Went to music.  After I took the music covers to Ron & we painted them.

Friday 15^th May 1942

Messed about in evening.

Saturday 16^th May 1942

For our job tonight we had Frank Butley alto & Cyril Wilson Tenor.  Cyril told us that Les Brown the noted pianist gave lessons at Stratford & I think I’ll have a walk over there one night.

Sunday 17^th May 1942

Mum & dad went to Laindon & Ern & I messed about all day.  I read “The Citadel” by Corrin which is a very good book.

Monday 18^th May 1942

I bought “I don’t want to walk without you”

Bert & I went & saw Tony Keith Saturday.

We saw Mrs Deeks she said Jimmy has been called up but he is going to see me when he gets home about Wednesday week.

Tuesday 19^th May 1942

Went to night school.

Wednesday 20^th May 1942

Went round Ron’s in evening with Bert

Thursday 21^st May 1942

Went to music.  Ern finished repairing the gramophone he bought & put on it an adaptor so that we can put it on the amplifier.

Friday 22^nd May 1942

I had to go to Stadler’s so I left the office at 4.30 & got to Plaistow at 5.15.  I waited for Doris but she wouldn’t come out with me.

Bert Ron Doll & I went to the Granada & saw “Vessel of Wrath” & “Mystery Shop”.

Saturday 23^rd May 1942

Played at Balaam St.

Sunday 24^th May 1942

Up late. Went round Ron’s & took the Gram & records. We put it on the amplifier.  Ern came later & we stayed till 2.

Firewatching till 6.

Monday 25^th May 1942

Up at 2pm.

Messed about all day. 

Tuesday 26^th May 1942

Messed about.

Wednesday 27^th May 1942

Went to Odeon with Bert we saw a really good show Mickey Rooney & Judy Garland in “Babes on Broadway” one of their best.  A cartoon, a war film called “5 men of Velish”^XIII & “Pips & Puzzles” showing how psychology is being used to put the right men in the right job.

Thursday 28^th May 1942

Went to music & saw Ron after.

Friday 29^th May 1942

Bert & I went to the “Fishing Smack” at Barking where Bert was playing.^XIV

We had a damn good time & we came home by car.

I arranged to go to Bert’s place tomorrow for a jam session.

Saturday 30^th May 1942

After work I went to Scholl’s & Bert Ron me & Bob who plays Clarry & John Bert’s pal went to a pub & had a jam session.

Home at 3.30

In evening we played at Balaam St there was only 3 of us & we had a huge crowd.  The district warden said it was the biggest & best of the 4 dances he had been to that night.

Sunday 31^st May 1942

Went to Laindon.

I didn’t do much work.

I brought some records home.

Monday 1^st June 1942

I took some of the records round to Ron’s.

Tuesday 2^nd June 1942

Went to school in evening. 

Firewatching till 2.

I was out for about ¾ of an hour listening to the planes flying about.

Wednesday 3^rd June 1942

Bed at 2.15 & soon after more planes came over & then guns fired & then more planes.

At 2.38 the ARW sounded so I got up.

There were only a few planes over & then the AC went at 2.56.  I went back to bed at 3.45

Friday 5^th June 1942

Messed about during evening.

Saturday 6^th June 1942

Went to Bennetts this morning he took out one tooth & told me to come back as some want filling and the rest need cleaning.  In the evening went round Ron’s & had some fun. Home 11.30

Sunday 7^th June 1942

Up 11.15.  Had a bath. In afternoon Bert & I went with Ron & Doll to some friends of theirs over Leyton.  Home at 10.30.

Monday 8^th June 1942

Doughty & I went to lunch in the Abercorn Rooms.  It cost us 5/- each but it was a grand experience for us.  There were all the usual type of people there – Bishops retired Colonels & Bishops etc. we had a very good lunch and it was excellently cooked.

Dads Birthday.

Bert & I saw Ron for an hour in the evening.

Tuesday 9^th June 1942

I went out with Selby in the afternoon & when I came out of Adelaide House at 5 a gas test was in progress & I had to go to London Bridge & travel on the Northern to Moorgate. It wasted 15 minutes for me.

Went to night school. I bought Dad some cigars for his birthday.

Wednesday 10^th June 1942

I decided to go to the Premier to see “Shanghai Gesture” & “All American Co-Ed”.

A letter had come for Ern so I took it but I couldn’t see him about when I got to the shop so I went to the films – damned good too – and then I waited outside the shop till he came along.

We went & had a drink with the chap Ern was on with & in there I saw Cyril Wilson.

Ern wants me to Firewatch for him one night & I shall be on with the chap I saw.

We went in Erns shop & while there I tried on some shoes & Ern is keeping me a pair I also got a pair of holiday shoes.

Ern has bought a clock for Doris & Les. I brought it home.

Thursday 11^th June 1942

Mums Birthday.

She & Dad went to Laindon.

I bought her some flowers.

Went to music.

Then we went to the dance at St Mungo’s. Packed up at 10.

Friday 12^th June 1942

In evening we rang up a bloke advertising in the express as a sax player. We got him for tomorrow.

Saturday 13^th June 1942

Went to Barclay Hall in evening.  The sax was good & we booked him for some more dates.

Sunday 14^th June 1942

Up late.

The Victoria Tavern was burnt out last night.  The managers wife was burnt to death.

I went & had a look at it in the evening. It is absolutely gutted.

Monday 15^th June 1942

I settled up with Dad for my suit etc.

Then I went to Erns shop & settled up for my shoes etc.

Then we went to the Premier & saw “Hay Foot” & “How Green was my Valley” which is a super film.

Tuesday 16^th June 1942

Uneventful

Wednesday 17^th June 1942

Ditto

Thursday 18^th June 1942

Bert & I went to Barclay Hall.  The other job they wanted us for has been cancelled.

Friday 19^th June 1942

Selby forgot I was going on my holidays & didn’t draw my extra money & he had to pay me out of P.C.^XV

Aunt Lillie & Doris came over. Doris is coming again tomorrow with her sister to go with Mum to order her flowers.

Saturday 20^th June 1942

Bert went to Central Park in evening & watched Eddie & the boys.

Ern & Lil went to Greenwich.

I poshed myself especially to meet Elsie (Doris’s sister) and I thought she was a peach from what I had heard of her.

But when I saw her — I didn’t think 2 sisters could be so different.

Sunday 21^st June 1942

Went to Laindon & got beautifully sunburned.

Monday 22^nd June 1942

Went to Premier & saw “Call out the Marines” & “Wake up & Dream”.  Damn good show.

I went into Bristol H.S. & saw in there a record of “Blues Galore” & “29^th & Deadborn” by Johnny Dodd’s & his Chicago boys so I bought it.  A smashing record.

Tuesday 23^rd June 1942

Went to night school & after I went to West Ham Lane Park & saw Eddie & the boys they had a 10 piece outfit & it was super.

Wednesday 24^th June 1942

Went to the Palace & saw “Full Swing” with Jack Hulbert & Cicely Courtneidge.

 A good show but I’ve seen better.

 I went round the music shops & bought

“Basin St Ball
Bounce me brother with a Solid 4
Solitude
Miss You
Angeline
If you build a Better Mousetrap
How Green was my Valley
The street of Regret
I try to say I love you
The Window Wash Man
10 million kisses
He stole my Heart away
A Gay Ranchero
Deep in the heart of Texas
How about you”

Total 16/-

I bought a couple of books “For Amazement Only” & “No coffins in China”.

Thursday 25^th June 1942

Went to the London Hospital & I needn’t go any more.

Went to Granada & saw

“Sailors on leave” & the crazy gang in “The Frozen Limits”

We played at St Marys in evening with Fred Gillam (Gtr) & Harry Bray (Alto)

What a jam session.

Friday 26^th June 1942

Went to Library & got “If Hitler Comes” “Children of the sun”.

Had a haircut.

Went to Ilford Hippodrome & saw George Scott Wood & his band.  Pretty good show.

I went to do Erns Firewatching.  I was with Mr Brooks of the Bank & I stopped with him.  I left about 6 am.

Saturday 27^th June 1942

I bought myself a white shirt.

Yvonne Major called to see mum in the evening. Her brother had got married & the reception was at Elcaas hall & the band hadn’t turned up & she asked me if I would like to go but I didn’t want to & said I had arranged to see our guitarist (I hadn’t) & went round to Ron’s.

I saw his electric guitar. Stayed till 11.

Went to library & got “Death in the A.R.P.”

Ern came back from Scotland.  He appears to have had a good time.

He had been to Homerton & had Leslie with him.

Bed 1.30.

Sunday 28^th June 1942

Up 9.30

Great Bustle all morning.

After we had had dinner Mick & Elsie came at 1.40. Walter came.

There was Walter Mick Bert Les & I in 1 car & Ted Ern Mum Dad & Elsie in the other.

The wedding was very nice & we had a good time after.

There were mostly young chaps there & Les had brought some chaps from his station one of them was a super swing style pianist.

Walter took most of the people home & we left about 1.20am.

My nose bled for about 10 minutes early in the afternoon.

Monday 29^th June 1942

Didn’t do much all day & in the evening I went to E.H. Palace & saw Eric Winstone’s^XVI Swing Quartet & Clarrie Wears Rumba Band in Battle of the Bands.  It wasn’t bad but Winstone’s played all numbers too fast & I’m not very keen on Rumba Rhythms.  Still it made a change.

Tuesday 30^th June 1942

Ern & I went & saw Walter & Doris. Ern later went to Homerton & I went over the flats.

While I was there I saw Walters dog Rover run over.  The only thing was that death was instantaneous & the dog didn’t know anything.  Walter was very cut up & broke down.

Wednesday 1^st July 1942

Ern & I went to Laindon.  Mum came down in the afternoon.

I went out on the bike.

We went to bed at 11.30

Thursday 2^nd July 1942

Up at 10.

Mum & Doris came down with the Baby at 12 & had arrived at 1.30.

Something went wrong with the bike & although I couldn’t find a puncture the tyre kept going down so I couldn’t go over Fred’s as I intended to.

We caught the 9.5 train home.

Mrs Clay said Bert had had a letter from Bray saying he couldn’t come on Saturday.

I went to Ron’s thinking he would be there but Bert had gone on to Fred’s.

Friday 3^rd July 1942

I went to the Granada & saw “Wolf Man” & “Kate plus 10”.

In the evening Bert & I went all over the place trying to get an alto tenor or trumpet.

But although we tried about 2 dozen & spent about 5/- we couldn’t get one for Saturday – we got plenty who could do weeknights – so the personnel for Saturday is Me Piano, Bert Drums Ron Spanish Guitar Fed Gillian Electric & Spanish Guitar.

Saturday 4^th July 1942

Went to dentist had 1 tooth filled price 10/-.

Although we didn’t feel very happy about going we got nothing but praise & promises of more jobs.  So it was O.K. after all.

Mum said Fred had called. He is home for good & is coming over tomorrow.

Sunday 5^th July 1942

Ern Terry I mum & Dad went to Laindon.

Going to the bungalow we were speaking to 4 girls – at least us boys were –

Soon after we had arrived the girls came & looked for us, but they soon went.

After dinner Fred called & us chaps went for a walk on top of Crown Hill we met 3 Welsh girls we spent some time with them & going back we fell in with the 4 girls of the morning.

While we were larking about one of the girls hurt her ankle & soon after I did the same thing I managed to get to the bungalow & bathed it & then put a cold water bandage round it.

We left with about 50 minutes to spare, but we would never have done it if Terry & Ern hadn’t carried me most of the way.

Monday 6^th July 1942

Mum got some lotion from the chemist that is doing my foot good.

I had to spend nearly all day sitting down with my foot up.

Saw Bert in the evening.

Tuesday 7^th July 1942

Still couldn’t go in but my foot is getting on.

Wednesday 8^th July 1942

Went to work but I had to wear my tennis shoes.

Someone had told Joyce that we were playing at St Marys tomorrow so we went & saw Bill Kemfry but there will be no dance for 3 or 4 weeks as they can’t get the hall.  

About 9 Doris came.  The band at Fairbairn won’t be able to play there for 5 weeks.

So Bert & I went along.

We asked for £2/5 for a 4 piece or 35/- for a 3 piece & they asked us for a 3 piece.  Len was up there his tone is no better but he is better at reading.

When we left Doris told us that all profits go to the forces comforts fund so we are going to get a 4 piece for the same money & also try to get Les Ashby to come for a spot of practice there.

Thursday 9^th July 1942

We had some stuff from Chappell’s “Moonlight Cocktail” & “Skylark” & “You’re the one” & “Wedding of the Gingerbread’s”.

Bert went to Browns & bought.

“I don’t want to walk without you

This is no laughing matter & Window Washer Man

Tiia Tu Tuea Ta & Somebody Else is Taking my Place

Cokey Cokey & I Overheard a Conversation

An Old Fashioned Love Song

How Green was my Valley & Miss you

Deep in the Heart of Texas 

I try to say I love you

Took Ron’s parts round & then went to Fred’s.

We arranged for a practice on Monday.

Friday 10^th July 1942

I rang up Les Ashby but he can’t come on Monday so I asked him to come round tomorrow at 2.

In the evening I went to Scholl’s where they were holding a dance of course the band wasn’t up to much but the people enjoyed it.

Home 11.

Saturday 11^th July 1942

Les Ashby came round for a practice in the afternoon but he couldn’t get in tune with our piano but still we played a few tunes.

Bert & I went over to John’s house at Lewisham. We went to a dance there with some of John’s gang.  The band was pretty good but the leader was an awful swanker.

Home 11.15.

Sunday 12^th July 1942

Went to Laindon.  Will & Arnold were supposed to be coming about 12.

I rode down to Wayletts to meet them but they didn’t turn up & so after dinner I went to Fred’s.  Fred & I came back about 5 & Will & Arnold had arrived then about 6 Ern Will Arnold Fred & I walked to the Crown for a drink we got to the bungalow again about 9.30.  Will & Arnold started for home & we went down to the station we caught the 10.21 home – proper drunken train it was too.

Monday 13^th July 1942

Bert & I went to Fred’s for a practice.

Tuesday 14^th July 1942

Went to school it is finished till September now.  Went round Ron’s.

Wednesday 15^th July 1942

We played at Fairbairn.  Jolly good it was too.

Thursday 16^th July 1942

Went to music.

When I got back I made an orchestration of the Waltz “Love Me”.

Friday 17^th July 1942

Les Ashby Bert & I went to Fred’s for a rehearsal.  Ron came later.

Les is really quite a good player & when he has had experience he should prove to be really excellent.

We had an air raid from 5.11 pm to 5.32pm.

Saturday 18^th July 1942

Went to the dentist & had another tooth filled.

Messed about in evening.

Sunday 19^th July 1942

Went round Les Ashby’s with Bert in afternoon he had the Orks of Lebensraum & Alexanders Rag Time Band which he sold to us for 4/6.

In evening we went to Ron’s & had some fun.

Monday 20^th July 1942

Went to Walters in evening with Bert as Bert had a job for him.

Firewatching 2-5 am.

Tuesday 21^st July 1942

Went round Fred’s in evening with Bert & Les.

Wednesday 22^nd July 1942

Played at Fairbairn. Les came & we had a 5 piece pretty good too.

Thursday 23^rd July 1942

Went with Ern to East Ham Palace.  Saw Harry Parry & Group with Yourk de Sousa (good) & Johnny Claes (bad).  Good supporting show.

Home 11.30

Friday 24^th July 1942

Saw Bert in evening & just messed about.

Saturday 25^th July 1942

Went to Bert’s cousins wedding in afternoon the reception was at Romford.

We were quite near to where Harold’s wedding was held.  Bert took his drums.  We had a good time but not as good as  at the other weddings this year.

Sunday 26^th July 1942

We left Romford at 12.  Home 1.30.

I wrote some Trumpet parts in afternoon.  In evening Bert & I saw Les & we had a jam session.

Monday 27^th July 1942

2 air raids one 6.31am -6.50am then 7.16am – 7.32am.  both quiet.

Went to Odeon & saw “One of our Aircraft is Missing” & “Henry & Dizzy “  Bert & I met Les Wilson & he came in with us.

Tuesday 28^th July 1942

ARW 3.5 am to 4.15am.

Guns were heavy before ARW during the raid we heard several planes & the guns were heavy.

The new Rocket AA’s were in action.  The noise was terrific & the shells look like showers of golden rain going up.

In evening Bert Ron & I went to Fred’s for a rehearsal.

Ern had to go to a meeting. He was told there that during raids in future it would be dangerous to go out because of the shrapnel from the new guns apparently all people who have to be out in raids are to be issued with special shoulder pads.  When a lot of shrapnel comes down another lot will follow & also if an AA shell lands unexploded it is not safe to go near it as a shadow passing over it will detonate it.

When Bert & I got back from Fred’s we decided to go & look for Ern & see if he required any help as he had to go & tell all party leaders.

We went up by Plaistow stn. first & we thought we saw him go down Grasmere Rd but it wasn’t him.  We came back through Clegg St & a copper stopped us & wanted to know why we were running so we explained why we were out & showed him our cards.

We came back down Dundee Rd & as we turned into Edinburgh Rd we saw something lying in the Rd.  We go & look & find a bloke laying there.  He’s alive all right & we lift him up & find his blindo with whisky.  We get him on the path & find out he lives at 4 Nile Rd & start to take him home.  We had just got into Southern & several NFS Tenders come clanking round, if we hadn’t pick up that chap when we did we would have found several bits.

Wednesday 29^th July 1942

I bought a copy of Metronome very good book.

Went to Fairbairn.

We were lousy.  Ern came.

Thursday 30^th July 1942

ARW 1.55 am to 4.10am.  We heard guns before the ARW afterwards it was quiet most of the time.

I went round Ron’s.

Friday 31^st July 1942

Saw Ron in evening.

ARWs 2am 2.35am quiet

3.8am 3.36am Guns before ARW quiet after.

Saturday 1^st August 1942

Went to dentist I now have to go once more.

In the afternoon some papers came for Ern about new types of I.B.s so I rang him up to see if I could help him by taking the forms to the party leaders. But he said he’d do it himself.  Bert & I went with him when he went out in the evening & we covered all the area we finished at the post & were there for about an hour.

Bed 1.15am.

Sunday 2^nd August 1942

Caught 9.7 train to Laindon in the morning.  We had to catch a bus to get out of the rain.

Couldn’t go out till the evening & then I went cycling with Fred we visited a lot of his pals.

Bed 10.45

Monday 3^rd August 1942

Up 11

Went out with Freddie to see the preparations for the fair at the Crown.  It seemed that it would be pretty good.

After dinner we went to the fair at the bottom of 4^th Avenue it wasn’t bad but it wasn’t  good either.  They had a dance band that would have been thrown out of any London hall.

We met the girls next door down there & we managed to have quite a good time.

We left to catch the 7.7 train but we got to the station at 7 & the 6.50 which was late was the one we caught. I went round Ron’s, Fred was there.

This morning an alarm sounded from 3.25 to 3.47 Bert told me.

Book 32

Tuesday 4^th august 1942

Went round Fred’s in evening & had a bash.

Wednesday 5^th August 1942

I saw Doris this morning. She spoke to me first & seemed quite friendly – different to the last time I spoke to her.  I think I made a good impression I’ll try to keep it up.

Played at Fairbairn.  Elsie was there.

Thursday 6^th August 1942

Went round Ron’s in evening

Friday 7^th August 1942

I bought a record of “Red duster Rag” & “I don’t want to walk without you”

Saturday 8^th August 1942

I went to the office & found everyone else was in so I went round to Bert & stopped there.  

ARW 6.4 to 6.36pm.

We played at the wedding of Mr Bills daughter at Balaam St.  Good time.

Sunday 9^th August 1942

Went to Laindon.  Doris Beryl Rose Edna & Eileen came down in the afternoon & stayed.  They’re going home on the 17^th.

Monday 10^th August 1942

Tiffney Baron & me started work at Finsbury Park with a firm named Haggis.  Lovely place.

Bert & I went to Granada & saw “Ghost of Frankenstein” & “He found a Star”

Tuesday 11^th August 1942

Left home at 8.25 home at 6.15

Messed about in evening round Ron’s.

ARW 1.15 to 1.35am all quiet.

Wednesday 12^th August 1942

Haggis again.

Read in evening.

Was firewatching 10 to 2

ARW 2.15 to 2.37 all quiet.

Thursday 13^th August 1942

Haggis again.

Went round Ron’s in evening.

ARW 2.47 am 3.15am.  Some gunfire Bombs on London area.

Friday 14^th August 1942

Haggis again.  I expect to be there till about Tuesday or Wednesday.

Went round Fred’s for a bash in evening.

Saturday 15^th August 1942

Bert & I went to a party at Johns house.

There was a smashing piece of good there named Evelyn Tilby.  I was o.k. with her getting her in all the xing games.

About 2 some of us went for a walk.  Bert & I & Evelyn were in front.  Cecil who was after her & apparently did alright at the last party was cut right out.

Anyway we lost the others & were walking about till 3.20 when we found our way back.  Bert & I had asked her out & we finally arranged that Evelyn & I Audrey & Bert & Doris & John would go out next Friday.

On the 31^st Evelyn is starting work at Barclays bank 54 Lombard St.

Sunday 16^th August 1942

Up at 10.

I stayed to dinner.  After dinner Bert John & Evelyn & Audrey had our photos taken. I went to Laindon.

Mum & Dad & Ern were going but when I got there it was 4.30.  Doris & Beryl Rose Eileen & Edna who had been there the week were there with Fred who had come down Friday night.  Apparently, the rain had put off Mum & Dad.  When I got home about 9.45 I found that was true.

Monday 17^th August 1942

Bought a copy of the Book “Ark Royal”

Tuesday 18^th August 1942

I am writing all this (15^th onwards) on 28^th Aug & I can’t remember all I did.

Wednesday 19^th August 1942

Finished at Haggises today.

Thursday 20^th August 1942

I saw Bert in evening.  He has been on holiday & been at Johns most days.  He has booked tickets for tomorrow at the Phoenix to see “Sky High” but unfortunately he could only get 4 dress circle & 2 upper circle seats so John & Doris will have the upper circle seats.

Friday 21^st August 1942

Evelyn Audrey Doris Bert & John met me at the office at 5.30 & we went to the Strand corner house first but they were only serving dinners in the Brasserie so we had tea in the ABC.

Then we went to the Phoenix, the show was quite good (Naunton Wayne Elizabeth Welch Joe Gail & the 2 Hermione’s etc)^XVII & I also got on alright with Evelyn after the show we went to the Tottenham Court Rd Corner Hse for supper then had a walk round & went to Charring X Stn

They caught the 11.44 train & Bert & I got home at 12.40

Saturday 22^nd August 1942

We went to a dance in the evening & I won 5/- in a raffle (first time I ever won a raffle).

Afterwards Les & I went to party at Les’s cousins.  It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t as good as our parties.

Home at 7.20am.

Sunday 23^rd August 1942

Went to Laindon.  Freddy didn’t call & I felt too tired to call on him.

Ern & I had a game with Crockett’s & Ern & I came home with a soldier relative of theirs on leave. Mum & Dad are staying there for the week.

Bert wrote to Audrey today asking her & Evelyn to come out again at my suggestion.

Book 33

Monday 24^th August 1942

Stayed in all night. Ern was firewatching. 

I had my records on.

Tuesday 25^th August 1942

I got a copy of “Sweet Elsie” today.  Ern came in about 10 & we played cards.

ARW 4.52 to 5.24

We heard planes & guns over city.

Wednesday 26^th August 1942

Mum came up today.

Ern Bert & I went to Senior Fire Guard meeting today.  They want to sling the fire guard training on to the Senior Fire Guards.

When the meeting was over the fire guards had one of their own & they agreed to meet occasionally but I don’t suppose anything will come of it.

Thursday 27^th August 1942

Bert & I went to the Odeon & saw Charlie Chaplin in “the Gold Rush” & also saw “Way of the Army”.

Ern was firewatching.

Friday 28^th August 1942

Mum came up.

Ern was firewatching.

I went round Ron’s till 11.30 then came back & did my firewatching went to bed at 2.30am.

Saturday 29^th August 1942

I took my stamps to the office & swapped with Cruse.

Messed about all afternoon bathing etc.

Heard the first commentary of the season when West Ham beat Portsmouth away by 5-4 in their seasons first game.

First time West Ham have won their first game of the season for years. 

Went to the dance round Pretoria. It was very hot & we played hotter than we’ve ever played before & we nearly melted away.

Les stayed at our place as it was raining

Sunday 30^th August 1942

We were talking to Ern & didn’t get to bed till 3 & it was 5 before we slept & we didn’t wake up till 10.  I was supposed to be at a lecture at 10 with Ern but I couldn’t sling Les out so I didn’t go. I missed the 12.0 to Laindon & had to change at Upminster to catch a bus but they were so slow that I took a share in a taxi to Laindon.

Arrived at 2.

We caught the 8.45 home.

There was an alert at Laindon about 2.45.  Plane came over guns fired ARW then we heard a fight & the planes gradually faded out the AC after a while.

Monday 31^st August 1942

Evelyn starts today at the Bank I didn’t get a chance to go to see her although I would have liked to.

When I saw Bert he had been to see her but was unlucky.

While I was talking to Bert a chap came from Mrs Scott to give us another date & he also gave us some tickets for Saturdays dance & on the tickets was “SIX MELODY MAKERS BAND” & we have only got 5 so we went to Fred’s & saw him & arranged to go to West Ham Lane Park tomorrow & see Eddie Sinclair.

Tuesday 1^st September 1942

I got to the Bank at 5 to 12 & waited till 12.20 for Evelyn but didn’t see her.

We went & saw Eddie & Fred has got it so that we will either get a tenor or Eddie himself.

We all went round Ron’s after.

Wednesday 2^nd September 1942

In evening Bert & I went round with Ern on F.G. business & finished up by going to 704 Barking Rd. to collect 150 sand mats

Thursday 3^rd September 1942

We started 4^th year of War

   \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Went to music

Bert & I went round Fred’s & sorted out a programme for Saturday.

Friday 4^th September 1942

Went to Premier & saw “Twin Beds” & “Women in War”

Saturday 5^th September 1942

ARW Heard guns & planes.  

We were let down by Frank the Alto & we had Piano Drums 2 gtrs & tenor.  Still we were alright.

Sunday 6^th September 1942

Mum & Dad went to Laindon.  Ern & I went over Stratford for the Stirrup Pump test for the SFG’s.(Senior Fire Guards)

Erns team was himself Miss Armstrong Mr Marchant and another chap.

Yesterday Mr Rose was best. His team took 5 ½ mins & got 75%.  Today the first team got 6 ½ mins 75%, 2^nd team 5 ½ mins 85%. Erns team 5 mins 85%.  The last team I couldn’t see what the instructor gave them but I’m sure they took longer.  Ern as No 1 did several things the others hadn’t thought of.

In afternoon & evening Bert & I went round Ron’s.

Firewatching 2-6am.

Monday 7^th September 1942

Bert & I went to Premier & saw “Pardon My Sarong“ (Abbott and Costello) and “Red Flyer”. 

ARW 10.48pm to 11.38pm. Guns & Planes bombs in distance Flares seen.  Fire started at Hainault.

Tuesday 8^th September 1942

We had a Fire Watch Committee meeting & afterwards a meeting of Dundee Rd & we got them well started

Wednesday 9^th September 1942

Went to the stationary office & bought “Air Sea Rescue” “We Speak from the Air” “The Highland Division”.

Went round Ron’s in evening & we wrote out some music.

Thursday 10^th September 1942

Went to music.

Went round Ron’s & we wrote some more music.

Friday 11^th September 1942

Ron Doll & I went to the Granada & saw “The mystery of Marie Roget” & Old Mother Riley MP”  the stage show was “War Workers Entertain”.

Saturday 12^th September 1942

Went to work in morning.

In afternoon I saw West Ham play Crystal Palace & draw 2-2.

In evening we played at Pretoria Rd.  We had Frank Bating on alto. I don’t like him much – his tone is rough & he buts in on your solos – but if Fred asks him in I shan’t quibble – he is leader.  

Frank won the raffle that makes 3 of the band winners Ron & I have also won.

Sunday 13^th September 1942

Mum & Dad & I went to Laindon & picked abut 4 ½ lbs of blackberries.  Home at 8.40.

Monday 14^th September 1942

I joined Night School & when I got home again I wrote out some more music.

Tuesday 15^th September 1942

2 yrs. ago the RAF shot down 185 jerries’.

I went to school.  Mr Richards is still teacher & there are 3 of us from last year.

Firewatching 10-2

Wednesday 16^th September 1942

Bert & I had a dancing lesson at Fred’s.  I did quite well.

Thursday 17^th September 1942

I bought Victor Sylvester’s book on Ballroom dancing.

Went to music.

Friday 18^th September 1942

I had to go to New Barnet in the afternoon. I went by tube.  I had a hell of a job to find my way to the place when I left the tube at High Barnet. & when I found it I had to serve a notice to quit on a woman – distasteful job – I got home at 7.

Saw Bert.

Les came round & I gave him the music.

Saturday 19^th September 1942

I didn’t have to go in so I had a haircut.

Bert & I saw West Ham beat Tottenham 3-1 in the afternoon. & we played at Pretoria in the evening.

Sunday 20^th September 1942

Mum & Dad went to the bungalow for a week.  I sorted out a lot of old clothes.

Ern & I went to Homerton in the evening.

We saw Doris Elsie Lillie Rose Arnold & Will but he had to go firewatching.

Some time ago when he was in the navy he took part in a film called “In which we Served”  the ads were in the paper so we put his name in prominently & cut it out & Elsie is taking it to work to put on a card & send a typed compliment slip with it to say “with the compliments of Sam Goldwyn” & saying it entitles him to 6 free seats at the cinema where it is showing.  Elsie will post the letter to Will.  I’d like to see his face when he gets it.

Monday 21^st September 1942

Ern was supposed to go firewatching but didn’t.  I went round Ron’s.

Tuesday 22^nd September 1942

I went to school. Ern went firewatching.

When I got home from work I found a note asking me to ring ALB 2599 about the band before 7.

I got in touch & found that the chap wanted a band for Oct 16^th (Friday) at the Public Hall so I booked the job & said the leader would get in touch about the fee. When I saw Bert after school we went round Fred’s but he was out.

Wednesday 23^rd September 1942

I rang Fred & told him about the job & he asked if Bert & I were coming round tonight for a dancing lesson.

We went round. & had another lesson.

Fred hadn’t been able to get in touch with the fellow as yet.

Thursday 24^th September 1942

I was firewatching 2-6 so I asked Reddin to do the 2-4 part & call me he went off the deep end & we had a glorious row. 

I didn’t go to music but I collected a new piece of Miss Elson’s one of Beethoven’s Sonatas.

Ern & I went to the Odeon & saw Will Hay in “The Goose Steps Out”.  We also saw “Dr Broadway” & Arthur Askey in a short called “The Nose Have it” about the dangers of sneezing.

Friday 25^th September 1942

I went round Ron’s & found them upside down as they are moving tomorrow.

They were proposing to sleep on the floor but as Ern was Firewatching I said they could use his bed so they stayed with me the night.

Saturday 26^th September 1942

Up at 7.30.

Bathed in afternoon.

Played at Pretoria. We got several more jobs booked.

Home 11.45

Sunday 27^th September 1942

Ern & I caught the 9.3 to Laindon.

I went over to see Freddie in afternoon & was late back.  We caught the 9.11 home.

Monday 28^th September 1942

Bert & I went to the Odeon & saw “The Palm Beach Story” & “Salute John Citizen”^XVIII which is a really good film.

Home 10.45

Tuesday 29^th September 1942

Went to school in evening. 

Wednesday 30^th September 1942

Went to Fred’s & had a dancing lesson in evening.

Thursday 1^st October 1942

Went to music in evening

Friday 2^nd October 1942

Doris rang me up to find whether we were playing tomorrow & she said Elsie & she would come over tomorrow night to come to the dance.  Trilby lent me some records & Bert came in to hear them.

Saturday 3^rd October 1942

Up at 11.15

Mrs Clay became Mrs Neaves today.  Fred & his wife & boy came to the church & were at Bert’s for a while. I played for a bit.

Doris & Elsie came at 6 we left at 6.30. we were at Pretoria it was quite good.  Ern popped in to see how we were doing & he took the girls part of the way home.

Sunday 4^th October 1942

Up at 12.45

Mum & Dad went to Laindon Ern was working on the Women’s Firewatch registration.

I heard the Jazz Jamboree on the wireless. The American band was lousy.  The RAF Band & the Blue Rockets were best.  But there wasn’t enough jazz in the jamboree.^XIX

Monday 5^th October 1942

Went to the Kinema.

Went to Ham Lane & saw “Mystery of Maria Roget” & “Blues in the Night”. Very good film indeed.

Tuesday 6^th October 1942

Went to school.

Wednesday 7the October 1942

Bert Les I & George played at the St Georges Hall Masterman Rd.

Went bad for first time.  We’re there on next Wednesday & maybe Monday & Wednesday after.  They want a new piano & want me to pick one.

Home 12.

Thursday 8^th October 1942

Went to music in evening.

Friday 9^th October 1942

We played at Drew Rd school this evening as we played till 11 we lost the last bus & train. We rang up Walter but he was on a job so we rang one of his associates & it cost us 10/- to be taken home.  Still we had quite a good night.

Saturday 10^th October 1942

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 11^th October 1942

After dinner Les came round and Bert brought his drums & we had a jam session for 3 hrs excepting when we had competition from the Salvation Army Band.

Les stayed to tea & went about 8.  I stayed in and read.

Monday 12^th October 1942

Went to Carlton & saw George Formby in “Much too Shy” & “Dangerously they live”.

Tuesday 13^th October 1942

Went to night school.

Wednesday 14^th October 1942

Played at St Georges.  Still a poor crowd.

Thursday 15^th October 1942

I went to a meeting of Party Leaders with Ern & the head Fireguard Marsden took the meeting.  Kinch was there & when the meeting was over he took us to the ELCCAS.

I am going on Sunday & I am trying to get Les to come as they want a melody man for the band.

We saw the films they have on Thursdays & then we went to see old Mr Living who is 94, a marvellous old boy.  He spoke of the time when Plaistow was all country just 50 odd year ago.

Friday 16^th October 1942

We played at the Public Hall it went down very well & Les who was a bit nervous when we started went down very well.  I had a lovely time on the Grand.

Saturday 17^th October 1942

I got up at 12.

Bathed in afternoon & we played at Pretoria in evening. 

Sunday 18^th October 1942

One of Teds sisters is getting married on Saturday and Ted wanted us to play but as we are booked we couldn’t do it but we promised to get someone else.

Mum & Dad went to Laindon. I got up at 12.15. & put on some records & generally messed about.

Ern got up at 3.30.

Bert & I went to see Eddie to see if he could get a band for Ted.

We had an interesting talk & he told us to ring Newton (he said Newton would only get in touch with him but that would be best) so Bert will ring Newton tomorrow.

Les & his pal came round in the evening & we all went to the ELCCAS. Les played the night.

Ern Bert Gerry & I all joined the club. Les didn’t get a chance to as he was playing.

We had quite a decent time but like all clubs it is too cliquey.

Les got 7/6 for playing.

The others get a dollar a night on Tuesdays & Sundays.

Monday 19^th October 1942

Had two warnings in city heard nothing. Times

10.9 am to 10.29am 

10.59am to 11.16am 

12.13 pm to 12.24pm 

Guns heard in 3^rd raid.

I joined 5 clubs today for P.Cs.

I joined Victoria. FDH, Campbell Connelly, Victoria & Sun.

I have 120 no’s in all to come & I have got 44 today P.M. wouldn’t let me join for P.l so I just bought “one more Kiss” .

Saw Ron in Evening.

Wednesday 21^st October 1942

Played at St Georges

Thursday 22^nd October 1942

Ron Bert & I played at the YMCA for Fred’s A.B. Social. Had quite a good time & had a game of table tennis after.

Friday 23^rd October 1942

Played at Drew Rd.

Saturday 24^th October 1942

Went to Football & saw Hammers play Watford & win 3.0

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 25^th October 1942

Stayed in all day

Monday 26^th October 1942

Did nothing much.

Tuesday 27^th October 1942

Played at Dockland Settlement^XX & had a talk with Miss Brierly whom Mum Dad & Walter know 

Wednesday 28^th October 1942

Played at St Georges. 2 girls whose parents Fred knows came to the dance. Bert took them home.  I didn’t go because well ———–

Thursday 29^th October 1942

Ron Bert Les & I played at St Marys Church

Friday 30^th October 1942

Fred Ron Les George & I played at Elccas.  We got nothing but had a good jam.

Saturday 31^st October 1942

Played at Pretoria

Sunday 1^st November 1942

Stayed in till evening went up Elccas & Saw Ron & Doll there.

Monday 2^nd November 1942

Ern had to Start giving lectures to the fireguard tonight & I went with him to assist in a couple of demonstrations

Tuesday 3^rd November 1942

Went to night school & then went to help Ern at his lecture.

Wednesday 4^th November 1942

Played at St Georges.

Thursday 5^th November 1942

Went to music & got “Concerto for two” classic (original) Went with Ern to his lecture after.

Friday 6^th November 1942

Played at Drew Rd.  Walter took us home.

Saturday 7^th November 1942

Went to Odeon in afternoon & saw “My Gal Sal” & “About Face”

Went to Pretoria in evening.

Sunday 8^th November 1942

Went up Elccas in evening.

Monday 9^th November 1942

I went round Ron’s & gave him a music lesson

Tuesday 10^th November 1942

Went to night school

Wednesday 11^th November 1942

Les Bert & I went to Walters & had a practice. We had a thick fog and we almost walked home as we helped to lead the bus.

Thursday 12 November 1942

Went to music & after I stayed in & wrote some sax & trumpet parts.

Friday 13^th November 1942

Played at St Georges.

Saturday 14^th November 1942

Went to Town Hall & got my 10 extra clothing coupons^XXI went to the Broadway & saw “Moontide” & “Give Out Sisters” with the Andrew Sister.

Played at Plaistow Sec.  we were on top of our form.

Sunday 15^th November 1942

Stayed in all day & wrote out some trumpet parts.

Book 34

Monday 16^th November 1942

Stayed in all evening.

Tuesday 17^th November 1942

Went to night school & went to see Ron after.

Bert saw me later.  I am going to buy all the old parts from the band in exchange for 4 orks.  I am getting Dinah, Limehouse blues, after you’ve gone & only you backed with Autumn in Old London Town.  We are also buying 3 minutes of heaven.

Wednesday 18^th November 1942

I went to Browns in my lunch hour & bought the orkes. Also went to FDM & got 2 manuscript books.

We played at St Georges in the evening.

I was firewatching with Brett from 2-6.

Thursday 19^th November 1942

Went to music in evening & after I stayed in and got bored & generally messed about.

I heard the radio show Youth Magazine.^XXII A load of tripe if ever there was.  The people brought to the mike are the minority of today’s youth not the majority.

Friday 20^th November 1942

I bought Dad & myself a diary each today.

We played at Drew Rd.  had a Jam. Walter called for us.  He may be able to get us a contract with a chap.

Home 11.30

Saturday 21^st November 1942

Had a bath in afternoon.

Played at Pretoria in evening.

Sunday 22^nd November 1942

Stayed in bed till 2.

I went to see Ron in evening but he was out.

Monday 23^rd November 1942

I went to the Odeon & saw Bud Abbott & Lou Costello in “Who Done It” also saw “The great impersonation”

Good show.

Tuesday 24^th November 1942

Went to Russo with Salkeld.

Went to Night School saw Ron after & gave him another music lesson.  He seems keen to get the alto now.

Wednesday 25^th November 1942

My 18^th Birthday.

Mum & Dad gave me some socks & Pyjamas. Walter & Doris sent a card.

Went with Salkeld to Riccardo Daniels.

I had to go to the Borough later on for Tuffney & I went in a music shop there & Bought F&Ds 4^th piano album including Russian Ray Blue Skies Wabash Blues I saw Stars Etc.  also bought “The Man who comes around”

Thursday 26^th November 1942

Played at St Marys Church (writing this on 17/12/42)

Friday 27^th November 1942

Forgotten

Saturday 28^th November 1942

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 29^th November 1942

Bert brought me my cards I’ve had printed.  

Ern brought Jean home to tea & we played cards etc after.

Monday 30^th November 1942

Started at Dingwall’s with Tuffney & Bacon

Bought “Front Line” the story of the Blitz.^XXIII

Damned awful at Dingwall’s no convivences and very uncomfortable.

Played at 7 Kings Hotel for the Assistance board.  Pretty good.  Ron got a sax & brought it.

Tuesday 1^st December 1942

Went to school & then went to Ron’s & gave him some tips on playing Sax.

Wednesday 2^nd December 1942

Went to Premier & saw Gloria Jean in “She’s my Lovely”

Thursday 3^rd December 1942

Went to music

Went to Liverpool Arms with Bert to see Arthur & as the pianist hadn’t turned up I played for an hour & got 10/-.

I shall be up there other nights as well.

Friday 4^th December 1942

Played at Drew Rd. they gave us a car home & paid 5/- each for us before getting cars.

Got the Beveridge Report.^XXIV

Saturday 5^th December 1942

Played at Pretoria.

We saw Arthur last night & he asked me to go to Princes Hall Barking with him tonight because they want a pianist after next week.

So I went & played a few numbers but the bloke they had (RAF bloke) who is going abroad said I was too inexperienced but I didn’t think much of him actually.

Monday 7^th December 1942

Had to go to the office before going to Dingwall’s.

Went to Premier in evening & saw “Went the day well” & The Postman didn’t ring” jolly good show.

Tuesday 8^th December 1942

Bought the Warsaw Concerto.

Went to night school.  I was supposed to Firewatch at work tonight but got out of it because I was out of the office.

Wednesday 9^th December 1942

Played at Pretoria.

Thursday 10^th December 1942

Fred Bert & I did a small show for a kids party at the Gwen Wilson Inst. But it was lousy & I will never do another.

Friday 11^th December 1942

Ron, Les & myself played at Elccas for the firewatchers social.  Ron getting on well with the sax.

Saturday 12^th December 1942

Bert was taken bad today & couldn’t play & Les was with the HG so Fred Ron & I put up a show at Pretoria & did quite well 2 chaps who play trpt, & Violin & Clarry gave us their addresses & will come up Elccas with us one night.

Sunday 13^th December 1942

Ern brought Jean home & we played cards etc.

Monday 14^th December 1942

Went to Kinema & saw Flanagan & Allen in “We’ll smile again” & “Murder at Midnight”.

Quite good.

Tuesday 15^th December 1942

Went to night school.

Saw Ron after.

Firewatched 10-2

Wednesday 16^th December 1942

Bert is still ill so Fred & I played at Dingwall’s alone.  It was pretty awful because most of the birks only came to skylark about.

Thursday 17^th December 1942

Went to music.

Helped Ern in evening with firewatching matters & afterwards sorted stamps.  Fred called round.

Friday 18^th December 1942

I managed to get my firewatching altered from Saturday to Sunday.

We played at Drew Rd with Ron on drums.

Walter brought us home by car. We left the kit at the YMCA.

Cruse has his papers & goes on Monday to HMS Collingwood.

Saturday 19^th December 1942

The NFS have organised a demonstration round the area for this afternoon & Ern didn’t know till Thursday night so I spent the afternoon when I got home from work rushing around getting men to come & finding out all I could about it & then I handed over to Mr Parker.  As I had to go to the YMCA at 4.

Just on 4 Doris & Elsie called over.

Bert & I got to the YMCA at about 4.15 we started at 4.30. & played till 10. It wasn’t very good thought & I was glad to finish.

Sunday 20^th December 1942

There was an ARP film demonstration at the Broadway & I went.  Ern was firewatching & got there later & I met him after. I was with Mr Parker.

The show was quite good on the whole.

Home at 1.30 Mum & Dad had gone to Laindon to get our Rabbit for xmas.

I left at 3.30 to go firewatching. I was not very keen on it.

The only redeeming feature was that I won at pontoon only 1d but at one time I was 3/- down.

Went to bed at 12.45

Monday 21^st December 1942

Up at 7.15

Went to the station & bought a paper & had breakfast & messed abut in office till the others got in.

I bought 2 records.

I got Sid P Phillips quartet playing “Running Wild” & Yankie Doodle Blues” & Mound City Blue Blowers in “Muskrat Ramble” & “High Society”.

I went with Arthur Thompson to a job for Bert Harris to hear me.  He offered me a job with the band but as I wouldn’t leave the MMs it fell through.

Tuesday 22^nd December 1942

Went to Odeon & saw Bing Crosby in “Road to Morocco” & “Wrecking Crew” jolly good show.

Went with Roff to Pharaohs Grieves at Adelaide House.^XXV

Wednesday 23^rd December 1942

Went with Roff to Pharaohs, coming home I met Doris on Monument Station. Had an interesting talk with her.  I don’t know whether to ask her out or not.

Played at Pretoria felt bored so Les Ron Harry & I went & had two whisky’s & a brown ale but we didn’t feel any better.

Thursday 24^th December 1942

Office close at 3.30 but the trains were lousy & didn’t get home till 4.30.

I went & saw Les and after listening to some records we went out round some pubs & finished up in a café for supper.

Home 12.30

Friday 25^th December 1942

Uninteresting day.  Ern went to Jeans & I messed about all day listened to the wireless all day.  We wound the day up with a game of baccarat & I won a 1/-

Saturday 26^th December 1942

Had a bath in morning went to Walters for tea then went to play at Dockland.  Absolute mess up Les didn’t come eventually.  I missed the last bus & had to walk from Green St to Walters.

Ern & Jean had arrived & we stayed till 1am.

Sunday 27^th December 1942

I went to Lens for tea & then we had a jam the chaps who spoke to us at Pretoria came as well.  The trumpet isn’t very good & the clary had to go early so didn’t bring his Clarry.

But we will see them maybe on Thursday, definitely on Friday.

Monday 28^th December 1942

Went to the Premier & saw Arthur Askey in “King Arthur was a Gentleman” & One Thrilling Night”.

Tuesday 29^th December 1942

Stayed in all night & made a list of records I want.

Working at Pharaoh

Saw Doris on the train coming home from Monument.

Wednesday 30^th December 1942

I was firewatching at the office. I was round Control. I lost at pontoon.

Bed about 12.30

Thursday 31^st December 1942

Up at 6.45.

Had breakfast out & went to Pharaohs

I bought a book called “My Thrilling Adventures” all true stories very interesting. 

Saw Doris on station.

She’s a smashing girl.

Went to music.  Then went to Pretoria to play out the old year.

Quite good dance.

1943

Friday 1^st January 1943

Saw Doris on Station in evening.

We played at the Elccas for the firewatchers social.  We had piano drums clarinet alto & 2 trumpets.

In interval Les me & the drummer went to the couch & had 3 Browns & 3 singles & a double whisky.

I was sick after it but Les was worst of because he got it in his head & didn’t know what he was doing

I was supposed to Firewatch but I went to bed.

Saturday 2^nd January 1943

Up at 2.30

West Ham won 10.3 today.  

We played at Pretoria afterwards Ron took Les & I to a wedding in Harold Rd.  we had a pretty good time.

Sunday 3^rd January 1942

Home at 8.30.

I lit a fire & read the paper & had a doze for an hour before the others came down at 11.30.

Ern Dad & I put up the wireless & cloths poles that had fallen down.

In evening I called on Ron for an hour

Monday 4^th January 1943

Up at 6.30

Went out & got a paper & had breakfast.

I was in the office & I was able to do some orchestrating.

I bought 2 records 1 of Louis Armstrong & the other a Bud Freeman.

Went to night school.

Afterwards I took my records round to Ron’s.

Fred came round. While I was there.

Wednesday 6^th January 1943.

Messed about all day in office.

I have to register Saturday.

We played at Pretoria.

Les is volunteering for Marine Board tomorrow.

Thursday 7^th January 1943

I went to music & after I played records & did some orchestrating.

Friday 8^th January 1943

Worked at Pharaoh Grieves with Roff.

I went round Fred’s & we had a talk.

Saturday 9^th January 1943

As my season ran out last night I didn’t go in today.

Up at 10.30

Registered about 2pm. Put down for RAF Flying duties.

Played at Pretoria.

Les showed us a letter he has had from the marines saying he is too old.  – at 17.

He is going to try for RAF Rescue Services now.

The MC we had was the biggest twerp I have known for an M.C.  I’d liked to have wrung his neck.

Had a bath when I got home.

Bed 2.30

Sunday 10^th January 1943

Up at 11.

Went round Fred’s for a bash in afternoon with Bert Les Ray & Ken.  Ron didn’t turn up.

Home at 5.30 just after Ern had brought Jean home.

After tea we played cards etc.  Ern took Jean home at 9.30.  I went to bed at 12.15.

Monday 11^th January 1943

Went to Premier & saw Gloria Jean in “Date with an Angel” & “Sin Town”.

I only bought a monthly season ticket for this time.

Tuesday 12^th January 1943

I went to night school.

Afterwards I listened to some of my records.

Wednesday 13^th January 1943

Bert Fred Ron & I played at Docklands. Awful as last time with all the hooligans there.

Thursday 14^th January 1943

Went to music.  Miss Elson lent me a theory book to do some work on.

When I got home I did some orchestrating & listened to some records.

I bought a copy of “Costal Command” today.^XXVI

Friday 15^th January 1943

Had some fun at the office today.

Baxter gave me the job of sending off 1200 cheques & to help me I had Miss Ginn Miss White Pratt & Trickey & we had the end room to ourselves & we had some real good fun while we were working.

Saturday 16^th January 1943

Went in in the morning, kept busy 

I sent up for 12 swing scale studies issued by Vic Fitman of Blackpool.  It is apparently very good.

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 17^th January 1943

Stayed in all day 

We bombed Berlin heavily last night & at 8.20pm we had an A.R.W

The barrage was the loudest we’ve heard & when a whole battery of rockets go up it’s like the biggest bomb ever, in descent except that it dies away instead of gets louder. Many people were killed by gun splinters for when a battery shells explode the sky is alive.  The bombers tried diving & zooming to escape the barrage but 10 were shot down

The noise of the guns was so great I didn’t hear any bombs but from Bushey Rd (a D.A.) to East Ham Town Hall (H.E.) there was trouble at Boleyn there were more H.Es and shells falling & exploding & outside the Granada there’s a D.A.

AC at 9.58 pm 

Ern was over Leyton & had some narrow escapes when he & Jean were out.

Monday 18^th January 1943

Stayed in during evening.

ARW at 4.45 am

Heavy barrage as in last raid.  A.C. 5.48 am. 

Another at 7.48pm till 8.20pm guns heard faintly just after ARW but nothing after.

Tuesday 19^th January 1943

Went to night school

Mr Richards asked me if I knew anyone who had a violin for sale as a friend of his wants one, I said I would do what I could.  I think Martin has one.

Went round Ron’s after.

Wednesday 20^th January 1943

Played at Pretoria. 

I bought two HMSO books transport goes to war & the Campaign in Greece & Crete.

We had an ARW at 12.33 while I was at lunch Geoff Pratt & I were in Lyons.

When we finished lunch most of the trouble was over but from the office roof we saw the guns firing.  A school was hit and the final death toll was 48.

Book 35

Wednesday 20^th Jan Contd.

ARW as we finished at Pretoria’s dance at 10.49pm.  There was some gunfire but the AC went at 11.3 as Fred Bert & I were halfway home.

Thursday 21^st January 1943

ARW 1.5am AC 1.22am guns with warning quiet after.

I was firewatching at office & supposed to be on duty at home but Mum who is on the rota for the first time did our turn 10-2.  I had a quiet night bed about 12.30.

Mr Roff & I started work today at the Timber Trade Federation of the UK at the London Chamber of Commerce in Cannon St.

Friday 22^nd January 1943

Bert & I went round Ron’s in the evening.

Saturday 23^rd January 1943

Les was with the H.G. & we played at Balaam St with Ray.  Quite good really.

Doris called over in the afternoon.

Sunday 24^th January 1943

Up at 3pm.

Felt very bad & had terrible pain behind my eyes.

About 9 I got rid of it by using smelling salts & clearing my head & then I had a bath & went to bed.

Monday 25^th January 1943

Felt better this morning. 

At T.T.F.

Ern started work at Ronan’s today as repair mechanic.

Went to the Premier & had to go the long way round Green St because the DA is still in front of the Granada.

Saw “7 Days Leave” “Mexican Spitfires Elephant” & a captured German newsreel.

When I got home I heard that Tommy Wretham had called round for me to do a job, I wish I had been in.

Kinch had also been down to see if I would play for him tomorrow night.

Tuesday 26^th January 1943

I rang up Kinch & said I’d play.

Went to school & to the Elccas after.

One of the girls Mary was quite friendly & I decided to go on Friday.

I rang up Les, and was told he was ill, during lunchtime.

Wednesday 27^th January 1943

I was going to see Les but didn’t feel too good so I stayed in and wrote out some band parts.

Thursday 28^th January 1943

Went to music

Went round Ron’s after.  He said he’d come tomorrow.

Friday 29^th January 1943

Still at T.T.F.

Went up Elccas at 9.

Mary was there but she disappeared at the end so I wasn’t able to take her home as I had hoped.

Saturday 30^th January 1943

I got mum to put £10 in my Post Office A/c for me.  Had a bath in afternoon & went to Pretoria in evening.

Sunday 31^st January 1943

Up at 11.30am.

Went round Les’s but he was out.

While I was knocking a chap came up & asked if I was the chap he brought home last Monday apparently he found Les half naked in the road late at night & brought him home. I left a note asking him to “Ring me tomorrow night while I am firewatching.  

I went up Elccas but Mary wasn’t there.

Monday 1^st February 1943

Roff & I nearly finished TTG & while he was finishing it I got on with L & D S M O Assn which is in the same blding & only a small job.

I bought the HMSO book Battle of Egypt.  Quite good.

I was firewatching in office 

The weather was very bad and we had the wireless on, suddenly we heard (as we thought) the guns open up.  Everybody dashed for helmets etc & we prepared for duty until someone switched off the wireless & we realised it was only thunder.

Bed 12.30

Tuesday 2^nd February 1943

Up at 7.15

Played at Elccas

Finished at TTF

Wednesday 3^rd February 1943

In the office today kept busy.

Went to music.

Friday 5^th February 1943

During lunch I went to Browns & FF&H & Pestons & got some music for band & myself & got some manuscript paper.

Got my notice for medical next Friday.

Saturday 6^th February 1943

Went in in morning.

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 7^th February 1943

Didn’t do much all day.

Monday 8^th February 1943

Went to Premier with Bert & saw “Rookies with Abbott & Costello & “Sherlock Holmes in Washington”.

Tuesday 9^th February 1943

Played at Elccas

ARW 8.33 to 8.48am.  no action

Wednesday 10^th February 1943

Bert & I went round Freds.

ARW 4.49 to 5.10pm. no action.

I was at LHWG.

Thursday 11^th February 1943

Went to music

Friday 12^th February 1943

Up at 11.

Left for my medical at 1.45.  Got at the place at 2.30.  It was only 2 private houses.  After waiting a bit we were sent upstairs & undressed keeping on shoes trousers jackets. We went round 4 at a time.  We were weighed & measured.  Descriptions noted any marks put down, then the 1^st doctor tried eyes & reflexes & called out a list of illnesses to see if you had had any of them then the second Doctor called out another list & tried ears mouth & generally ran over you.  3^rd bloke tested your chest & he laid me on a table & started poking my chest about & called another bloke over.  Anyway they passed me Grade 1.

Then I got dressed & went downstairs.  I had a talk with some of the chaps there & I met a couple of chaps from school.

After more waiting I went up to see the RAF officer & he eventually presumably accepted me as navigator or W.O.  My eyes are too weak for Pilot or anything else.

So I went downstairs & filled in an RAF VR form & an allotment form & now I have to wait till I hear & then go up for 3 days for the really stiff medical & final acceptance in the RAF. 

Home at 5.30.  on the way I saw Len & Mrs Donovan & told them & Len said that he had put down for air crew.

Les called round & of course he heard all about it.

Saturday 13^th February 1943

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 14^th February 1943

Didn’t do much.

Monday 15^th February 1943

Got a new season ticket 

I told FM about the medical & had a talk with him.

Fred has had an offer to get up a big band with plenty rhythm to play at the Public Hall several nights a week & he wants to get Alto & Tenor sax to come with Les Bert Myself & him. So the 4 of us had a talk round my place tonight but we didn’t get very far.

Something I had at Lyons today upset me & after the boys had gone I was terribly sick & in fact Ern had to hold me while I was sick I felt so awful, so I went to bed early.

Tuesday 16^th February 1943

I felt ok this morning but I took sandwiches to lunch.

Played at Elccas 

I have to go out tomorrow so I arranged to meet Ern & have lunch with him.

Wednesday 17^th February 1943

Met Ern & had a jolly good lunch with him at the Black Sun.

Played at Pretoria.  We are out of a job Saturday as there has been some wangling going on & another band is there.

Thursday 18^th February 1943

Took sandwiches for lunch.

I saw Fred & Bert.  Ray will not be able to join us as he is only free 2 nights a week so after music I went to see Ron & told him about it, he seemed keen & promised to learn to read properly.

I ordered a book “Background of the Blues” from Stoneham’s

Friday 19^th February 1943

Did some orchestrating in evening.

Saturday 20^th February 1943

Put £7 in P.O.S.B.

Doris isn’t well & I rang up to see how she is.

Started on some more orchestrating but Ron called round & asked me to a party.  It was at the Boleyn & was a friend of theirs. I had a jolly good time playing Hyde Park etc.

Sunday 21^st February 1943

In the evening I went round to Lens & took some music.  May was there.  We had a bash & heard some records.  Home 10.20.  Had a bath & went to bed.

Monday 22^nd February 1943

Went to Stoneham’s for my book & they said they were waiting for it to come in.  but he chap at the office had told me Stoneham’s keep you hanging about for book so I rang up the WMA who publish it & found they hadn’t even got an order. So I told Stonham’s what I thought of them & wrote to the WMA for a copy of the book.  I also asked for a catalogue.

Tuesday 23^rd February 193

I was supposed to be firewatching but I got Roff to change & he did tonight for me & I do Sunday.

Went to school & Elccas.

Wednesday 24^th February 1943

Got “Background of the Blues” a really good book on jazz.  And there’s a smashing list of records.  They also sent an entrance form & catalogues of music & records. Etc.

Thursday 25^th February 1943

Went to music, & afterwards I went round to Les’s.  we had a good practice & I started Les on the -12 Bar Blues.

Ray called before I saw Les.  He has got his sax – an alto 

Friday 26^th February 1943

Went to Carlton in evening on my way I met Doris who was on her way to her sisters had interesting talk.

Saw “Orchestra Wives” with Glen Miller & Orch.  Jolly fine. & “Flight Lieutenant”.

I got a letter from Miss Joseph asking if I knew anyone who wanted a job there.

Saturday 27^th February 1943

Up at 11.30.

After Dinner Bert & I took the drums to the fire station we are playing tonight in North Woolwich Rd just past Lyles.

Ern & I went to East Ham to get some fruit after we got it I brought it home & he went to Jeans.  On my way home I called in Reeves & got the RAFDO^I playing “Anchors Aweigh” & “Blue Lou” & I also bought the Decca & Parlophone Catalogues.

It was alright at the fire Stn & we packed up at 11 & were home at 11.30 because they got a tender out for us.  They’ve booked us for the 27^th.

Sunday 28^th February 1943

Up at 11.30. Ray called he brought his sax & boy – he is really good on it, & plays his dots o.k.  He can play “In the Mood” melodic or hot a great feat for any Sax player.  

The sooner he joins the band the better for us all, we could step straight into the public hall jobs then.

Went firewatching at the office.

Bed at 12 & I didn’t get to sleep until nearly 2 I should reckon.

Monday 1^st March 1942

I came home at 7.30 & went back at 9.

Roff & I went to London Hardwood, – awful place.

It was Bert’s birthday so I bought him “Adastral Bodies” a humour book of the R.A.F.^II

I also bought “Ur of the Chaldees” or 7 yrs of excavation Sir Leonard Woolley.^III

I rang Miss Joseph & said I am after a boy (through Martin) & if that failed I might get a girl from Erns shop actually).

Tuesday 2^nd March 1943

Went to school & Elccas.

During my lunch I went to St Pauls & saw the Stirling Bomber they’ve got there, it certainly didn’t look a 99 ft wingspan, but it was very interesting.  The only thing was you couldn’t get very near.^IV

Wednesday 3^rd March 1943

We played at Pretoria – or were supposed to.  On Monday we gave Berlin a bashing & really beat them up.^V  Anyway tonight Bert & I were there at 7.15 Les about 7.25 & we had a bash.  Ron came & joined in and when Fred came we started on the dance properly we played Q.S. W. F.T. Q.S. W. (quick step, waltz fox trot quick step waltz) & then at 8.19pm the ARW sounded.  They stopped the dance & everyone had to go in the long narrow hall, where they had the blast walls, & take shelter.  We kept looking out of the doors but you couldn’t see much.  The gunfire was fairly heavy and they got 2 fires going. There were one or 2 quiet periods.

They let a couple of Rocket Batteries & the first one nearly made Mary pass out. Anyway the AC went at 9.49 & everybody went home.

Firewatching 2-6

Thursday 4^th March 1943

In my Firewatch we had an ARW from 4.30 am to 5.38am but the raid wasn’t very bad: quite a lot of gunfire but the planes must have been very high because we couldn’t hear any engines.  Mum was on with me.  Dad Ern & I stayed up after the AC.

Went to London Hardwood.

In evening went to music.

Ray & Les came round.

Ray is definitely going to join us.  I didn’t feel too good & went to bed early.

Friday 5^th March 1943

I stayed in bed all day, I had a slight touch of flue. Dad rang the office for me. It was a very boring day.

Saturday 6^th March 1943

Got up. I was supposed to firewatch at office but I didn’t go. Went to the dance at Pretoria.

Reg played for a while. Wasn’t too bad.

Sunday 7^th March 1943

Went to Elccas with Bert.

Ray called & Fred called while he was here.  Had an interesting talk about the band.

Monday 8^th March 1943

Went in. I rang Roff at LHWG & he told me to go to GA tomorrow.  Bratt Bell Lalheld & Hancock are down there today.

Ashworth & I went to Trafalgar Square to see the Lancaster.

I went in to Guedalla’s. Miss Ashton & Miss Bayley were at lunch & Miss Joseph was by herself.  I had an interesting talk with her.

Went to Odeon & saw “Footlight Serenade” and “Natasha” about the Russian war.

Tuesday 9^th March 1943

Left home at 8.15. went to Monument then Bank & then by City Line to Waterloo caught the 9.14 to Feltham with Bell Lalheld Pratt & Hancock.

Mett Roff down there. Had quite an interesting day. Home at 6.30.

My nose bled & in the end I had to give up any idea of going to school.  I went to the club though.

Wednesday 10^th March 1943

Caught 9.14 again.

Spent evening going through music.

Thursday 11^th March 1943

I caught the 8.54 today.

We can get cakes at Feltham so I bought a cake home with me.  I got home too late for music.

I sorted some music & later I saw Ron & asked him to come tomorrow to Elccas for the firewatchers social.  I went all over the latest Spitfire Mark iv today.

Friday 12^th March 1943

I put £4/10/- in West Hams Wings for Victory target of £750,000.^VI

Played at Elccas with Les Ray & Jim. Bert came along.  Ron couldn’t come as Doll was Queer. 

We got browned off at the end & said we wouldn’t go any more.

Saturday 13^th March 1943

Had a lay in till 12.30.

Had a haircut in the afternoon.

We had Ray playing at Pretoria & it was super.

2 alts trpt piano Grr & drums.

Sunday 14^th March 1943

Up at 12.30.

Messed about all day. Went up Elccas in evening with Bert.

Monday 15^th March 1943

Caught 8.54 train.

I bought a weekly season to Feltham & I also had to get another ordinary season so I got a monthly to Aldgate East.

At 5 there was a meeting in the room we were working in so we caught the 5.5 home.

Went to Premier with Bert & saw “Desert Victory” the 8^th army film so far also “Silver Queen” Lousy.

Tuesday 16^th March 1943

I had to leave home at 8 to go to the office to collect a comptometer^VII as a girl is coming down to work it. Caught 8.54 train. 

Jeff and I found a record shop at Feltham & bought Teddy Powell^VIII playing “In Pinetops Footsteps” & “Sans Culottes” Count Basie playing “Harvard Blues” & “Coming out Party” & Louis Armstrong in “Lawd you made the night too long” & “I got Rhythm”.

Went to school & played at Elccas later.

Wednesday 17^th March 1943

Caught 8.54 train.

I had to Firewatch at the office so I couldn’t play at Pretoria.

I left Feltham by the 4.35 train. 

We had a damned drill on the roof – a wet drill at that.  Ern doesn’t know much about it & I know he didn’t tell me anything I didn’t know.

I had a game of darts & went to bed early.

Thursday 18^th March 1943

I left the office at 7.15 home 7.45.  left home 8.15 & though being held up by the crowd at Bank I just missed the 8.54 so I caught the 9.14.  Roff is ill & didn’t come. He will be in again Monday.

As Roff isn’t here I shall work with Salkeld & Hancock will be in the office till next Tuesday.

Home 6.30.

Saw Bert.

Last night was O.K. He & I went round Freds & took some records & we had a good talk.

Friday 19^th March 1943

While we were at lunch Pratt & I went to the record shop.  As I walked in I saw a quid on the floor, the bloke who dropped it was there & he gave me 2/-. I bought a record.

I also got some Hair cream.

In the afternoon Fillmore rang me & asked me to do his firewatching Sunday & he will do mine the following Sunday.  Stayed in in evening.

Saturday 20^th March 1943

Went to office.

Went to Football & saw West Ham lose to Arsenal.

Ray played at Pretoria with us.

Mum got me a pair of gloves.

Fred is playing at the Public Hall next Friday with Bert in the WFS band so I Bought a ticket for it. 

Sunday 21^st March 1943

I went to see Les to suggest that he, I, Ray & Ron have a practice.  He is o.k. & so is Ron, Ray was out when I called.

Firewatched at office.

Fillmore’s team are a good lot.  The best I have been with anyway.

Monday 22^nd March 1943

Roff was still out.

Ray came round & as Bert was in he heard about the practice he also turned up & we are all o.k. for Wednesday.  After they left I did some orchestrating.

Tuesday 23^rd March 1943

Roff came in.

Played at Elccas after school.

Wednesday 24^th March 1943

I was queer all day & still don’t feel well in the evening but we had a good practice just the same.

Thursday 25^th March 1947

We played at the radical club & Fred wondered where the improvement came from till we told him about the rehearsal. 

Friday 26^th March 1943

Went up Public hall to the dance, the band was quite good but it was too big – 3 saxes 2 trumpet & 4 rhythm — & it sounded overbalanced most of the time.

Ivy & Edna were there & Bert & I took them home.

Saturday 27^th March 1943

Up late.

Had a bath.

We played at the fire Stn near Tate & Lyles again. Pretty good.

Fred had some players at 1/9 for 20 so I got 60 off him.

Sunday 28^th March 1943

Ern Jean & I went to Homerton as Elsie & Joyce have their birthdays on the 28^th & 29^th.  They had a bit of a party but we had to leave at 10 to get home.

Still it made a change.

Monday 29^th March 1943

I bought some more records at Feltham.

In the evening I stayed in & made my book for my music index.

Tuesday 30^th March 1943

Went to school & Elccas

Wednesday 31^st March 1943

Ray came to Pretoria so we had a 5 piece out.

Thursday 1^st April 1943

In evening I started indexing the music.

Friday 2^nd April 1943

Roff & I were the only ones at GAL.

There was a Fireguard meeting at Lister & I went with Ern.

There was a bit of sorting out up there & Kewell asked us all to go to his place for tea & Ern, I, Marchant, Ladbrook, Bal & Marsden had tea there.

I asked Marsden if he would shift the pitch of my piano & he is coming tomorrow.

Saturday 3^rd April 1943

Went to the office.

Home 1. Sally told me I was given a 5/- rise starts next week.

I saw Ray & borrowed his sax.

Marsden called about 4.30 & I tuned up the Sax & showed him how much it was out & he is coming Monday night to start.

Went to Pretoria.

Ron had an electric gram motor & I took it home to see if it is o.k. if it is worth 25/- to me. Ern & I stopped up till 2.30 trying it. It is ok. 

The clocks were altered to double summertime.

Sunday 14^th April 1943

Up at 12.3 When uncle Bob called with Ivor the strongest of queenies twins. He is a lovely kid.

Went to Ron’s & bought the motor.

In the evening I played at a wedding at Sid Payton’s at 2 Glasgow & got 15/-

Monday 5^th April 1943

Went to G.A.L.

Marsden came & shifted up the piano nearly a tone.

Tuesday 6^th April 1943

Went to night school & Elccas.

Wednesday 7^th April 1943

Ray called round & I gave him the chords of one of our numbers.

Ern & I went to a SFG meeting at 7.

Thursday 8^th April 1943

I bought a record of J Linnieford playing Strictly Instrumental & Chuck me a Kiss.

Finished at GAL.

Firewatched at office.

For some unknown reason I changed in flannels when I got there instead of leaving it till I went to sleep, & it was lucky I did because at supper I upset a cup of tea over my trousers.

Friday 9^th April 1943

I got my increased wage overtime & exs (expenses) today.  Over time was £2-16 & exs £2-3-11 and so with my band earning I collected £9 or more this week.^IX

Had a haircut.

We had an ARW from 11.49 to 12.3 but it was all quiet in the city & at home.

Stayed in during evening.

Saturday 10^th April 1943

Stayed in till evening when I went to Pretoria.

I am going to check up on my smoking I had 73 this morning & I shall count what I have left next Saturday morning,  I also got my pipe going.

Sunday 11^th April 1943

We all went to Laindon, Ern brought Jean along. We had some fun down there & I got a good bit of work done, in fact we all did.

Home at 10.15

Monday 12^th April 1943

I bought a classic of Jazz today L Armstrong West End Blues backed with Eddie Long Ork playing Freeze & Melt.

If the tax goes up with the new budget it will be the last record I buy till the war is over.

Went to Premier & saw “Fires were Started” a very good film about the NFS & “Katina”.

Marsden came again & now I can’t play it because the notes are all out.

Tuesday 13^th April 1943

Went to night school.

I found an error in my Fieldhouse & Richards advised me to write to him about it.  NS finished tonight till 4 May.

I played at Elccas.

Kinde asked me to play next Wednesday as well as Tuesday.

Wednesday 14^th April 1943

I rang up several music companies to see if they ran PL clubs & wrote to Noel Gay L Wright Chappell’s & Linephonic enclosing P.C. sub.

Also wrote to P Maurice for a copy of “The Blues & how to play em” & to the Parlophone Co for 2 personnel booklets.  The Budget has put 100% p.t. (Purchase Tax) on luxuries i.e. records & fags are now 2/4 for 20.

& I drafted out a letter to Fieldhouse.

Played at Pretoria.

Thursday 15^th April 1943

ARW 12.28 am to 1.27am.

We heard the guns in the distance & our local guns fired after the A.C.

I finished my letter to Fieldhouse during the raid.

In the morning I had a letter —————— from the RAF.  I have to go to Cardington next Tuesday for an interview but I suppose it means medical as well.

I told the office.  It looks as though I shall get a week’s money for working Monday because even if I’m only there 2 days the end of the week is holiday.

I bought an album of solos for piano.

Ern has got a gram table for me & we have now nearly got the electric gram fixed up.

I bought a new Season Ticket.

I also spent part of the evening sorting the contents of my desk.

I saw Fred in the evening on his bike so I told him all about it.  He was surprised.

Miss Elson was going out & didn’t want me to come so Mum explained about my papers & so I shall not be going to music till 29^th April. 

Friday 16^th April 1943

Aunt Maud called in the evening to ask us to go to Stan & Joan’s wedding on the 1^st May at Hornchurch.  I may go to the church but I am playing in the evening.  Ern is to be best man.

I told Kench that I wouldn’t be able to turn up next Tues & wed.

ARW 4.50pm to 5.3pm.  Quiet in City & at home.

Saturday 17^th April 1943

We had an ARW this morning at 12.20am till 1.39am.  we heard the guns several times & also heard planes but as it quietened towards the end I went back to bed.

I had 14 fags left this morning so I smoked 59 during the week, a big cut on my usual.  I usually spend 10/- a week on fags.

I got 100 Top Score from Mrs Jenick for 10/- this afternoon.

Marsden called again & finished the piano, he only charged 19/-.

Played at Pretoria.

Sunday 18^th April 1943

Mum & Dad went to Laindon.

I got up at 12.

After dinner I pressed my trousers.

Had a bash on the piano.

Bert’s pal Johnny came over. After tea Bert Johnny & I went up Elccas.  Johnny & I took 2 girls home.

ARW 1.52pm 2.3pm all quiet.

ARW 10.23pm 10.42pm.

Heard planes and guns fired in the distance our local guns fired after the A.C.

Monday 19^th April 1943

ARW 1.5 – 1.19am few guns heard & our locals fired once.

Wasn’t very busy at work.

I messed about all evening.

Tuesday 20^th April 1943

Up at 8.30.

I left home at 11.5. 

Had lunch at Kings X in the A.B.C.

While I was in the train waiting to go I saw Woodford a chap who used to be at Guedalla’s’ so I got in with him.  He was off to Cardington, after the same job as me – navigation – or pilot.

We had a change at Hitchin so we had some tea there.

When our train came in, it was a potty affair of an engine & 2 carriages & it ran on a single track to Bedford.

When we got to Cardington we found a one eyed little station & we had to jump over the lines & pass through a little gate & we were in the camp.

The security officer sent for a chap to take us to the actual camp as it is quite a big place.

Our first job was to have an F.F.I. & then we went to the “Intake Section” & sat in a room with some other chaps – mostly aircrew but some ground among them.  All the ground chaps were there for good.

Our only entertainment in the room was a notice that we should give & obtain a receipt for any cameras firearms alcoholic drinks seditious or obscene literature etc.

After about ¾ of an hour we were sorted out by a Corp into Ground & Air & then issued by a WAAF with a course pillowslip containing 2 sheets & a towel, mug, knife, fork a spoon which we signed for.

Then we went to the next room & had our particulars taken & were given a tag slip with a hut no & bed no.

We were then marched to the hut & told to put our kit on the bed by the corp.

Later he called back for us & with our mug knife fork & spoon we went to tea.

We lined up as though for a cafeteria & filled our mugs with tea & collected a plate that had something that looked like custard on it.  As we passed on another chap slung some bread & cake on our plate & then we went to a table.  On the table was a plate with marg & another with jam.

The custard looking mess we eventually found to be mashed spuds & grated cheese.

When we finished we joined on a line & scraped our plates in a swill bin — & the waste was awful & then filed in & rinsed our mug knife fork & spoon under a tap & then went back to our hut No 401.

I had a wash then.  Eventually the corp collected us & we went off to a hut & filled in a lot of forms & then we were taken into another hut & again subdivided & some of us went off for our first test – the Morse aptitude test.

In this test you wear headphones & a record is played.  You have a paper on which you put your name  & on it is “practice test” & no’s 1 to 4 & by each no is “yes” “no”. The other side is No. 1 to 78 “Yes” “no”.

When the record starts you hear 2 Morse sounds i.e. ….-.-. & …..-..-. & you have to underline “Yes “ if you think they are alike & “no” if they sound different to you. The practice questions are easy & so is the first part of the test but it gradually gets harder.  What I did though when possible was to liken the sounds to fragments of tunes & this made it easier & so I think I did well.  

After the test we did some more waiting & then had the “Joystick” test

In this test you sit in a wooden affair supposed to be a cockpit & put your feet on rudder bars & your right hand on a joystick & your left hand on a lever on the side of the jib.

In front of your eyes is a glass screen with lines on it like this   

• 

& you are supposed to keep a little white light in the square in the middle, the light, controlled by something is always trying to move from the middle & you adjust it by using the rudder bars for left or right & the joystick for up or down.

Under the screen is a white light on the left & a red light on the right. When the red light come on, you push the lever forward with our left hand & it goes out. When the white light flashes on you pull the lever back to put it out.  You have a practice run & then your test is on

I did quite well except for the occasions when I forgot the rudder bars worked the opposite way to a bike, so I managed the lights well except when the little light got up top & didn’t notice the red light for about 3 seconds.

After this we finished for the night & we went back to our huts. We made our beds – you each get 3 blankets – & then we went to the NAAFI.

Woodford & I were going to have a supper but there was such a queue we left & got on the tea queue at another counter & had a cake & tea. The tea was awful but the cake was good.

We went back to our hut & cleaned up & got in bed.

We tried to listen to “Music Society of Lower Basin Lt” but the wireless was awful.

There are about 30 beds to a hut.  At 10.15 the Corpl came in & said we would get up at 6 & be ready for the breakfast queue by 6.20 & have our beds packed up & then our kit on the shelf above the bed by 7.30 when our day would start. Then he said that we were to take no notice of an alert but if the take cover came over the speakers the shelters were behind the hut & get in em.

He finished by saying that all men on one side would take down their blackouts after he had put out the lights.  I was one of the unlucky ones. & so my day ended.

If I had been at home I would have been swinging it at Elccas.

The last cigarette I had was on Sunday night coming home with Johnny.  It was a struggle but I might get through the medical & if I do it will be worth not having smoked for a couple of days.

ARW 22.30 – 22.59 Mum & Dad said that it was fairly heavy & flames had to be put out.

Wednesday 21^st April 1943

Up at 6. Dashed out to wash & came in frozen & couldn’t put my collar on. Got in the queue with my knife mug fork & spoon at 6.30, the corp marched us off about 6.15. We had tea sausage & mash porridge & bread & butter.

Went back to the hut & listened to the news, heard there was a raid on London last night & bombs were dropped.

We went for our intelligence test about 7.30 & started it at 8.

We had a general knowledge test & maths test & had to write 2 essays & one on the Battle of the Atlantic & one on the AA Defences.

After that we were marched to another hut & waited till about 10, then we were asked some questions & then we went before the selection board.

I thought I was o.k. at first but eventually the twerp in charge said, “as you know our job is to accept people not turn them down but you can’t swim & know nothing about aircraft recognition & haven’t been in the scouts or A.T.C. & so I am afraid we must turn you down.”  I crawled out & sat down & couldn’t even think – except that I would like to kick the twerp from here to Berlin.

But I found that he had turned down everyone else so far & eventually he only passed 2 flight Engineers, which they are short of, so I suppose he had been told to .

I palled up with another chap who had been turned down & eventually we were taken elsewhere & a Waaf saw us & asked if we would like to be ground so we said yes.

Then we went before a flight sergeant he asked me if I would like to be a W.Operator,  so I said yes & he then told me to go to hut 342 for another intelligence test.

The other chap got the same.

We saw the Corporal & told him & then he said that we could not have 2 intelligence tests in 1 day the reason being that a load of ATC blokes once came & failed their air crew & when given their ground test said that it was too much to do 2 tests in one day so the CO said that no man could have 2 tests in one day.

All we had to do then was go to the intake section & get accommodated & we were then finished for the day.

So we had a walk round & went to the Naafi & I had a bash on the piano & in the evening we went to the Camp Cinema & saw “In which we Serve” but I didn’t see uncle Will. The other film was “Operational Heights”

We went to bed at 9.30.  I was one of those who had to get out of bed again for the Blackout.

---

I: Ernest Loring “Red” Nichols (May 8, 1905 – June 28, 1965) was an American jazz cornetist, composer, and jazz bandleader.
Over his long career, Nichols recorded in a wide variety of musical styles, and critic Steve Leggett describes him as “an expert cornet player, a solid improviser, and apparently a workaholic, since he is rumoured to have appeared on over 4,000 recordings during the 1920s alone.”

II: Ministry of Information (MOI)Cinema Wikipedia
The story of the British cinema in the Second World War is inextricably linked with that of the Ministry of Information. Formed on 4 September 1939, the day after Britain’s declaration of war, the Ministry of Information (MOI) was the central government department responsible for publicity and propaganda in the Second World War. It was the ministry’s function to “present the national case to the public at home and abroad”. The MOI was keenly aware of the value of commercially produced entertainment films in furthering the national cause generally and maintained close contact with film makers:
The Ministry both advised the producers on the suitability of subjects which they had suggested, and proposed subjects which we thought would do good overseas. Whenever the ministry had approved a subject we gave every help to the producer in obtaining facilities to make the film.
As a result, the typical British war film attempts to construct a gripping suspense story which at the same time conveys propaganda ideas in support of the Allied cause. Kenneth Clark, as head of the Films Division of the MOI, argued in 1940 that the public must be convinced of German brutality, stating “we should emphasise wherever possible the wickedness and evil perpetrated in the occupied countries.” Subsequently, the Home Planning Committee felt it essential to portray fully “the evil things which confront us … to fortify the will to continue the struggle”. By 1942, the fear of invasion (as depicted in films such as Went the Day Well?) had receded, and film makers began to turn to the brutal reality of life in occupied countries. The Day Will Dawn (1942) was a film about the Norwegian resistance, while Uncensored told the story of the Belgian resistance. Tomorrow We Live show the French Resistance and the heroism of ordinary French civilians, while One of Our Aircraft Is Missing (1942) shows Dutch civilians risking their lives to help a group of British airmen back to England.
Films were also imported. Churchill ordered the entire sequence of Frank Capra’s Why We Fight to be shown to the public.

III: Orchestrations

IV: From Wikipedia 
Birth of the Blues is a 1941 American musical film directed by Victor Schertzinger and starring Bing Crosby, Mary Martin and Brian Donlevy.
The plot loosely follows the origins and breakthrough success of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band in New Orleans. It was well received by critics on its release. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.

V: Wikipedia Edward Harry Temme was an English swimmer and insurance clerk. Temme was the first man to swim across the English Channel both ways, from France to England on 5 August 1927 and from England to France on 18 August 1934. Born: 16 September 1904, Plaistow, Newham. Died: 26 June 1977, Padua, Italy

VI: Source: theidioms.com
part brass rags, Meaning:  
quarrel and break off friendship with someone
to part with a friend by breaking friendship
This expression has its explanations in The Tadpole of a Archangel a short story by W. P Drury written in the year 1898. According to the story When sailors want to prove the brotherly love to inspire one another, it is a ritual to keep their brass work cleaning cloth in a joint ragbag. But if their relations become unhealthy, the bag owner would throw away his brother’s rags on the deck. As the brass rags separated bitterness creeped. The phrase has its origins from the 19th century.
P G Wodehouse used it a lot — it appears in at least five of his early works, in the decade from 1906 onwards — and my guess is that he did a lot to popularise this odd bit of lower-deck slang.

VII: Slang for clarinet

VIII: cinematreasures.com
Stoll Theatre, 22 Kingsway, London, WC2 6NR
Closed, Demolished
Previous Names:
London Opera House, Stoll Picture Theatre
Opened as the London Opera House, a project of American impresario Oscar Hammerstein to have his own theatre in London which would be a rival to the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. It opened on 13th November 1911 with a production of an opera new to London “Quo Vadis?” by Jean Nougues.
The building was huge, the area covered 24,500 square feet of ground and cost over 200,000 pounds to build. It took up an entire block along the newly constructed Kingsway. The length of the facade was 272 feet and was treated in a French Renaissance style in Portland stone with Norwegian grey granite bases. The building was 80 feet high and had Corinthian pilasters on the upper storey. A notable feature was a centre window which was 39 feet tall. On the main cornice were twelve statues sculptured by Thomas Rudge of Clapham. At the ends of the building were groups of three figures, representing Melody and Harmony, and over the central window were seated figures representing Inspiration and Composition. Between these and the end groups were four single statues of Comedy, Tragedy, Dance and Song.
The entrance hall was flanked by white and gold fluted columns, surmounted by bas-reliefs of famous composers.
The interior matched the exterior in elegance and extravagance. It had everything an opera house of its time should have. Designed in a lavish French Renaissance style with three rows of three boxes plus two stalls boxes on each side of the proscenium (that’s 22 boxes in total), three balconies and numerous painted panels on the ceiling. The seating was provided for 675 in the stalls, 40 seats in the boxes, 625 seats in the dress circle, 403 in the upper circle and 344 in the gallery. The proscenium was 44 feet wide, the stage 83 feet deep and there were 13 dressing rooms which could accommodate a total of 76 artistes.
With all good intentions and despite having a beautiful building, Hammerstein soon came up against his rivals at Covent Garden. They had the international stars and a well-known repertoire of opera’s, and the London Opera House was left with new works or those that were not so well known. Hammerstein was forced to close the London Opera House on 13th July 1912. He returned to America, said to be 47,000 pounds out of pocket.
The theatre remained closed until Christmas 1912 when French impresario Fernand Akoun took over with a season of variety and films. Oscar Hammerstein then disposed of his interests in the building to a new company London Opera House Ltd. They experimented with variety shows and then a revue “Come Over Here” which ran for 217 performances. Three other shows followed which were not successes and the theatre was closed more than it was open.
In 1916 Oswald Stoll took control and staged several attractions which were only minor hits. On 31st April 1917 he converted the building into a full time cinema, known as the Stoll Picture Theatre, and at last, this was a success. A Jardine tubular pneumatic orchestral organ was installed in 1927, played by Jack Courtney and it was so popular that in 1930 Jardine installed a larger theatre organ. There was a large orchestra to accompany the silent films.
The Stoll Picture Theatre, despite its ‘out of the way’ location was a popular family cinema and stage shows were introduced as part of the programme. It began losing out to the newer, more modern cinemas opening in London’s busy West End and the Stoll Picture Theatre was closed in September 1940 with a double feature film programme and a stage show. The effects of Hitler’s Blitz on London took its toll on ‘family’ audiences.
It re-opened on 1st September 1941, but as a live theatre presenting mainly revues and musicals. Oswald Stoll died in January 1942 and the theatre was taken over by Emile Littler, and re-named the Stoll Theatre. Shows that played during the next few years included revivals of “Rose Marie”, “Lilac Time”, “Show Boat” and “The Student Prince”. In 1947 it became the home of a series of “Ice Spectaculars” staged by Tom Arnold on the enormous stage. A revival of “Wild Violets” was followed by a transfer from the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane of “Oklahoma”. In 1951 the Festival Ballet performed for a sell-out season with Anton Dolin and Alicia Markova. This was followed by “Porgy and Bess”, Ingrid Bergman in “St. Joan at the Stake” in October 1954. “Kismet” with Alfred Drake and Doretta Morrow opened in April 1955 and ran for 648 performances, the longest run at the theatre. Some Italian opera filled in until the final production at the theatre was Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh in “Titus Andronicus”. The theatre closed to a packed house on 4th August 1957. There was talk about it being converted into a Cinerama Theatre, but the London Casino was chosen for that role.
It had been purchased by a development company to be demolished and an office block to be built on the site. Permission to demolish was given only on the proviso that a theatre would be included in the new development.
It was demolished in 1958 and a new office block rose on the site, the new theatre was in the basement, with an entrance tucked away around the corner in Portugal Street. This opened in June 1960 as the Royalty Theatre, now known as the Peacock Theatre. Cinerama did play eventually on the site, as the Royalty became London’s third Cinerama Theatre for a while.
The loss of the Stoll Theatre was one of the great tragedies of London’s West End, and if it had survived another few years, would definitely have been granted Listed building status and saved. Sadly back in 1958, the greed of commerce was king and it was ‘out with the old, in with the new’.

IX: Article in East London & West Essex Guardian 9^th April 2014
Relatives of 11 people who died when a bomber crashed in a Leytonstone street during World War II may still live nearby, an amateur historian believes.
The Vickers Wellington MK1C aircraft came down on February 10, 1942, when its electrical generator failed in bad weather and radio contact was lost, forcing it to fly lower to identify its position, but the engines stalled.
All six crew died, as well as five Civil Defence volunteers working as air raid precautions (ARP) wardens on the ground.
A plaque dedicated to their memory now stands in Corn Way, where the plane crashed into what was formerly Harrow Green School.
Local historian and researcher John Turner believes bomber X9905, which was based along with its crew at Bassingbourn in Cambridgeshire, was attempting to carry out an emergency landing on Wanstead Flats during a night flying exercise when it nose-dived.
“I feel there’s quite a possibility, although it’s 70-odd years ago, there are descendants of those who died still alive nearby,” the 58-year-old Langthorne Road, Leytonstone, resident said.
“The ARP wardens who sadly died on that day in 1942 all lived in the Crownfield Road area, except for one who lived in Wanstead.”
He said it would be fascinating to make contact with any relatives.
Four of the ARP wardens killed, Henry Arthur Edwards, Joseph G Smith, James Edward Gorham and Walter G Black, lived in Leytonstone, Mr Turner said, while Albert Edward Stanlon came from Wanstead.
Four of them were given a joint funeral, attended by the mayor of the Borough of Leyton, as it was known then.
The crew consisted of two pilots, William Mance and John Taylor, an observer Harold Jowett, two wireless operators and air gunners Allen Rogers and Arthur Ford, and a third air gunner Arthur Foote.
The final crew member and second pilot Jack Taylor came from Whelley, near Wigan.

X: This is the firm he did his Articles with.

XI: Add up.

XII:  Wikipedia
The Avedis Zildjian Company, simply known as Zildjian is an American-based cymbal manufacturer founded in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul, Turkey) by Armenian Avedis Zildjian in the 17th century. It is now based in Norwell, Massachusetts. Being nearly 400 years old, Zildjian is one of the oldest companies in the world. Zildjian also sells drum-related accessories, such as drumsticks and cymbal carriers. It is the largest cymbal manufacturer in the world.

XIII: From BFI 
The FIVE MEN OF VELISH (1942)
Presenter Wilfred Pickles 
Production Company  Soviet War News Film Agency
Sponsor Ministry of Information

XIV: closedpubs.co.uk
The Fishing Smack was situated at Hewett’s Wharf, Fisher Street (now 92 Abbey Road).
This pub dates back to 1855 or earlier. Closed in 2003 and demolished with surrounding buildings in 2008/9. Subsequently replaced by housing. A smack was a type of boat used by fishermen.
Colin Price – My father was the landlord of the smack from the early thirties to 1946 he was George Applebee in 1946 his brother Jim took over until retiring to be a hotelier on the isle of wight (the Burlington)in the late seventies I lived in the smack for only one year 1945 when my father moved to the White Hart in Collier Row and then on to the Coach &Bell Romford where he died. My mother took over for 5 years and then moved to the Bell at Rainham for 6 years after which we moved to the Laurie Arms Romford for2 years then finally in 1964 to the Woodman’s Arms in Thundersley until she retired in 1989 end of an era
Chris Applebee (June 2016)

XV: Petty Cash

XVI: Wikipedia
Eric Winstone (born 1 January 1913 in London, died 2 May 1974 in Pagham, Sussex) was an English big band leader and composer.
Playing piano in his spare time from a job as Westminster Gas and Coke Company led him to form his first band in 1935.  He learned the accordion, started an accordion school and formed an accordion quintet, a swing quintet, and a big band orchestra.
During World War II his orchestra entertained the forces and performed at holiday camps after the war. In 1955 a CinemaScope short of The Eric Winstone Band show was made.
He was quoted in 1955 as saying that “With the exception of money, length of working hours, living and working conditions, the price of beer, and the opposite sex, a musician is completely unconcerned about the material things of life.”
Dance Band Diaries Volume 12 1941-1943 0009 – National Jazz Archive
https://archive.nationaljazzarchive.co.uk/…band…/52285-dance-band-diaries-volume-…
Eric Winstone achieves a big success with his Battle Of The Bands stage presentation at London Cinemas with Edmundo Ros, who now has to leave and is replaced by Clarrie Wears and his Rumba Band.

XVII: http://archive.spectator.co.uk/article/12th-june-1942/11/the-theatre
“Sky High.” At the Phoenix Theatre.
The stage is bigger, the settings more elaborate, the costumes more kaleidoscopic than in those far-off days when the two Hermiones divided our pleasures between two small theatres instead of combining them into one large one ; but the material is very much the same. To say that it is not so good as in the previous show might be unfair. It is probably just as good, but it is also far too similar. For aught I know, Miss Gingold’s lecture on bicycling is—as Bertie Wooster would say—of the essence ; but one cannot feel that it is really as good as her lecture on the music of Bucolosi. In the same way Miss Baddeley’s tropical vamp hardly stands up to her Chelsea drab or her equally famous Madam Butterfly. On the other hand, the two Hermiones together have seldom, if ever, equalled their antics as two ladies of the deep, scanning the barnacled bottoms of passing ships and making dates by impaling letters on convenient anchors ; Miss Baddeley’s yellow wig (which, as her opposite number acidly points out, is full of surf) is in itself worth a pair of opera glasses, while Miss Gingold’s refusal (by telephone) of a boatswain’s offer to mate, is a model of undersea curtness.
There is a good deal of the usual sort of revue-dancing and revue- singing, which is quite pretty to look at ; and there is also a fine effort by Walter Crisham, splendidly out-of-step and out-of-voice as the Norwood Nightingale—a choir-boy whose voice has capitulated to the onslaught of adolescence. Of the two newcomers to the usual galaxy, Naunton Wayne, with the exception of an excellent parody of Emlyn Williams, is given little opportunity to exercise his dry and delicious wit ; while Elizabeth Welch, simply by refusing to let anything damp her splendid exuberance and her magnificent voice, infuses an electric excitement into a series of musical clichés. If only someone would let her take the stage for fifteen minutes with, say, a programme of unadulterated Calypsos—that would indeed be a revue-item worth seeing and hearing.
BASIL WRIGHT.

XVIII: Wikipedia
Salute John Citizen is a 1942 black and white British drama film directed by Maurice Elvey and starring Edward Rigby, Mabel Constanduros and Jimmy Hanley.  The Bunting family face up to the fortunes of war during the Second World War.
Plot
The life of an ordinary family during the London Blitz. In the summer before that explosive September, elderly clerk Mr. Bunting (Edward Rigby) loses his job at the Department store where he’s worked for over 40 years. George Bunting is the head of a happy home, with wife Mary (Mabel Constanduros), daughter Julie (Peggy Cummins), and two sons, Chris (Eric Micklewood) and Ernest (Jimmy Hanley). When the Blitz hits London, we observe its effect on the family, and how they cope with the crisis. Mr. Bunting is rehired in his former job due to the shortage of manpower, though little else in his life is positive. Daughter Julie goes to work in a factory. The London blitz destroys everything in sight, and one of his sons, Chris, is killed. In the wake of this destruction, his other son, Ernest is converted from pacifism to the war effort.

XIX: http://genome.ch.bbc.co.uk/schedules/forces/1942-10-04
‘JAZZ JAMBOREE, 1942’
Presented by the Musicians’ Social and Benevolent Council. The greatest annual dance-band concert in Europe, held in aid of the Musicians’ Union (London Branch) Benevolent Fund. The following bands, introduced by David Miller , are heard in the broadcast :
No. 1. Balloon Centre Dance, Orchestra (by permission of the Commanding Officer), directed by Cpl. Paul Fenhoulet
United States Army Dance Orchestra (by permission of the Commanding General)
R.A.O.C. Blue Rockets Dance, Orchestra (by permission of Brigadier E. P. Readman , O.B.E., T.D.), directed by Sgt. Eric Tanri
Dance Orchestra of His Majesty’s Royal Air Force (by permission of the Air Council), directed by Sgt. Jimmy Miller.

XX: Dockland Settlements
http://docklandsettlements.org.uk/history/4587831784
The Dockland Settlements has been helping deprived communities since 1894 when Malvern College school in Worcestershire started a school mission, in Canning Town in London’s East End, for the purpose of bringing welfare and recreation to the youth of the dock area slums, who were mostly unemployed and extremely poverty-stricken. The Docklands Settlements used to have centres across the country, traditionally located in areas where dockers and their families lived. Over the years this has changed and we now operate in areas where deprived families might live including Newham, Southwark and Tower Hamlets.

XXI: Imperial War Museum
Extra coupons were given to children
Children’s clothes had lower coupon values in recognition of the fact that they would need new clothes more often as they grew. From 1942, all children were allocated an extra ten coupons, with additional coupons being issued for older children or those classed as ‘outsize’. Coupons were also needed for school uniforms, which could be a particular problem as many schools did not relax their rules on uniform during wartime. Clothing exchanges were set up by the Women’s Voluntary Service (WVS) to help meet the needs of women struggling to clothe their families. Women could take the clothes that their children had outgrown and were given a number of points for the clothes she handed in. These could be ‘spent’ on other clothes at the exchange. Mothers were also encouraged to buy children’s clothing in bigger sizes so it could initially be taken in and then let out gradually as the child grew.

XXII: http://genome.ch.bbc.co.uk/2dd9c1f3a3f9465e82007ad69130dd38
‘YOUTH MAGAZINE’
BBC Home Service Basic, 19 November 1942 20.00
Synopsis
Weekly programme for under-twenties, introduced by Hamilton Kennedy

XXIII: Front Line 1940-1941 This book was amongst his war memorabilia

XXIV: nationalarchives.gov.uk
The welfare state
On 1 December 1942 the wartime coalition government published a report entitled ‘Social Insurance and Allied Services’. It had been written by Sir William Beveridge, a highly regarded economist and expert on unemployment problems. The Beveridge Report quickly became the blueprint for the modern British welfare state. More than 40 years later, even a white paper on social security drafted by Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government, which opposed many of the principles behind Beveridge’s work, recognised his report as ‘by any measure a landmark’.
The Beveridge Report aimed to provide a comprehensive system of social insurance ‘from cradle to grave’. It proposed that all working people should pay a weekly contribution to the state. In return, benefits would be paid to the unemployed, the sick, the retired and the widowed. Beveridge wanted to ensure that there was an acceptable minimum standard of living in Britain below which nobody fell.
Although it was a complex document of more than 300 pages, the publication of the Beveridge Report was a huge success. Opinion polls reported that the majority of the British public welcomed the report’s findings and wished to see them implemented as quickly as possible. This shows the extent to which the population had shifted to the Left during the course of the Second World War. The first post-war election, in June 1945, resulted in a landslide victory for the Labour Party, who were enthusiastic supporters of the Beveridge Report.

XXV: Wikipedia
Adelaide House is a Grade II listed office building in London’s primary financial district, the City of London. When it was completed in 1925 it was the City’s tallest office block, at 43 m (141 ft). It is located on King William Street, adjacent to London Bridge, on the site of the old London Bridge Waterworks. London Bridge Wharf stood below it and was later incorporated into New Fresh Wharf, before being redeveloped in the late 1970s.
The building was named in honour of King William IV’s wife Adelaide, who, in 1831, had performed the opening ceremony of London Bridge.
Adelaide House was the first building in the City to employ the steel frame technique that was later widely adopted for skyscrapers around the world, and also the first office block the United Kingdom to have central ventilation and telephone and electric connections on every floor.
It was designed in a discreet Art Deco style by Sir John Burnet and Thomas S. Tait, with some Egyptian influences, popular at the time after the recent discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb. There used to be a fruit and flower garden and an 18-hole mini golf course on the roof.

XXVI: This book was amongst his war memorabilia

I: Royal Airforce Dance Orchestra
https://www.amazon.com/Squadronaires-Royal-Force-Dance-Orchestra/dp/B004NIYEHK 2011 collection. The Squadronaires, one of the leading British bands of the 1940s, first came into being in direct response to an executive decision taken by Wing Commander Rudy O’Donnell (Director of the RAF’s Central Band Wing) to recruit professional dance-band musicians. O’Donnell rightly believed that dance bands would boost morale on a par with other military ensembles. Initially, the recruits were formed into five-piece groups and posted at RAF stations throughout Britain, but in March 1940, 14 top British players were selected for the RAF Number One Dance Orchestra which, as far as the RAF were concerned, remained their official nomenclature for the duration of their service, the ‘Squadronaires’ being their unofficial name. Features 25 tracks. Bygone Days.  
As an aside, one of the last shows he saw was at the Cliffs Pavilion theatre Southend, was the Squadronaires in approx. 2009.

II: Taken from Waiting for Something to Happen: An RAF Serviceman’s Reflections on Life by Athol E Varley
I have bought two books by the Punch writer Basil Boothroyd –   “Adastral Bodies” and “Home Guard Goings on”. The former is a brilliant effort to describe life in the RAF and it deals with all the inefficiency and nonsense in the only acceptable way – with a sense of humour.

III: Wikipedia
Sir Charles Leonard Woolley (17 April 1880 – 20 February 1960) was a British archaeologist best known for his excavations at Ur in Mesopotamia. He is recognized as one of the first ‘modern’ archaeologists, who excavated in a methodical way, keeping careful records, and using them to reconstruct ancient life and history. Woolley was knighted in 1935 for his contributions to the discipline of archaeology.

IV: historytoday.com
Bomber in the City, 1943
The appearance of a Short Stirling Bomber near St Paul’s Cathedral prompts Roger Hudson to recall the Wings for Victory campaign.  Published in History Today Volume 66 Issue 4 April 2016
It is the beginning of the Wings for Victory campaign in March 1943 to raise money for warplanes. A Short Stirling bomber has been brought in pieces and then reassembled on a bomb site to the east of St Paul’s Cathedral and there is an Avro Lancaster in Trafalgar Square, too. The high point of the City of London’s effort is a parade and march past the Lord Mayor, the biggest since 1939, with contingents from the three services and men of the merchant marine. At the end there are various-sized bombs on trolleys, including a blockbuster with ‘Hitler’s Easter Egg’ chalked on its side. At Trafalgar Square 1,300 carrier pigeons are released with messages for savings committees throughout the country.
There had been a War Weapons Week in 1940 to replace armaments lost at Dunkirk, a Warship Week in 1942, as well as a Spitfire and a Tanks for Attack Week and, of course, there was always Dig for Victory. Now most towns were to devote the first week of May to Wings for Victory. Targets were set for counties and then divided up between urban and rural district councils. The Yorkshire town of Settle’s target was £150,000, enough for three Sunderland flying boats, though its final total was £223,000. For every target achieved, the Air Ministry awarded a white plastic plaque featuring a nude St Michael the Archangel brandishing his sword at a three-headed Lucifer, while the planes were named after the town or county which had raised the money. Plastic was an exotic novelty in 1943.

V: http://ww2today.com/1st-march-1943-bomber-command-revisit-berlin After a couple of large raids in January Bomber Command had made a point of visiting Berlin on the 10th anniversary of the Nazi party. That had just been a minor diversion with Mosquitoes. Now in the largest raid they had yet made on Berlin the heavy bomber fleet made the long trip in a dramatic demonstration of what the RAF was capable of achieving. In the belief that German morale was already under strain, raids on the capital were regarded as an essential part of the war effort, undermining all the Nazi claims that they could protect the Reich.
There were 302 aircraft on this raid, including 86 Halifaxes. Squadron Leader Alan Frank was leading No. 51 Squadron in this aircraft:
Although there were 5.6 % losses on this raid and much of the bombing was dispersed over an area of nearly 100 square miles, it was regarded as a success. A significant proportion of the bombs fell in concentration on the south west of Berlin, destroying large areas on factories and workshops.
The weight of bombs was now so large that even a raid where only a proportion of them hit the target was regarded as a success. For analysis of every World War II bombing raid by the RAF see the Bomber Command War Diaries.

VI: The Wings for Victory Weeks were held across the country in 1943, from March onwards, to raise money by, among other ways, encouraging civilians to save with War Bonds.

VII: Wikipedia
The comptometer was the first commercially successful key-driven mechanical calculator, patented in the United States by Dorr E. Felt in 1887.
A key-driven calculator is extremely fast because each key adds or subtracts its value to the accumulator as soon as it is pressed and a skilled operator can enter all of the digits of a number simultaneously, using as many fingers as required, making them sometimes faster to use than electronic calculators. Consequently, in specialized applications, comptometers remained in use in limited numbers into the early 1990s, but with the exception of museum pieces, they have all now been superseded by electronic calculators and computers.
Manufactured without interruption from 1887 to the mid-1970s, it was constantly improved. The mechanical versions were made faster and more reliable, then a line of electro-mechanical models was added in the 1930s. Notably, it was the first mechanical calculator to receive an all-electronic calculator engine in 1961, with the ANITA Mark VII model released by Sumlock Comptometer. This created the link between the mechanical calculator industries and the electronic.
Although the comptometer was primarily an adding machine, it could also do subtractions, multiplication and division. Its keyboard consisted of eight or more columns of nine keys each. Special comptometers with varying key arrays were produced for a variety of special purposes, including calculating currency exchanges, times and Imperial weights. The name comptometer was formerly in wide use as a generic name for this class of calculating machine.

VIII:  Teddy Powell (Teodoro Paolella) (March 1, 1905 – November 17, 1993) was an American jazz guitarist, composer, and big-band leader. Some of his compositions were written under the pseudonym Freddy James.

IX: https://www.moneysorter.co.uk/calculator_inflation2.html#calculator
£9 in 1943 worth £286 today