Badsey
Evesham
Mar 7/98
My Dear Kathleen,
I have come downstairs to-day and will try and write you a few lines, as I was unable to do so last week, my cold, which I think must be of the influenza type, is better but I have not ventured outside as it is such a cold wind. Ethel’s cold hangs about her but she gets out and the same with Cyril, Baby too is somewhat in the fashion although it does not seem to disturb her neither, as yet, does her arm, I think it will take in three places, altogether I think Mother is “best man” at present although she has a little cold. Clara seems a tidy sort of servant but we do not know if she will elect to stay beyond the month. I am glad you were top again last week and hope that the Latin is going on well notwithstanding that you rather “went bold” in the exam. I expect you thoroughly enjoyed your tete-a-tete with Miss White and as you say it was friendly of her to ask you. Aunt Susan has been dangerously ill from influenza but from last accounts seems gradually improving. We heard from Arthur this morning he was top in the mathematical exam, they lost the Llandovery match on Saturday, Dip and some others, who had a whole holiday for passing their reviews, hired “bikes” to go over there but owing to a side slip his pedal got bent and although he went on for a bit he made such slow progress that he was forced to turn back 7 miles from home and ride slowly back, however he consoles himself that he got off by payment of 2/6 for damage and all. Mother will write later in the week.
With love from all I remain your affectionate Father
Julius Sladden
Your joint present to Arthur was a pair of silver sleeve links and to George a pair of fine gloves which he observes fit to a T.
