CHAPTER 50: PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE - SEPTEMBER 1926


Thomas Barrow

Downton
15 September 1926

My Dear Santarelli,

Congratulations on your appointment as manager of the Savoy Restaurant! I heard the news from Ivor and Bobbie who feel, as do I, that the restaurant could not be in better hands.

I have tried to follow your advice but have been frustrated in my attempt to find a local business opportunity that will not interfere with my duties as butler. That is, until yesterday. I asked a friend what she thought was missing from Downton. Without hesitation, she answered, "A dance hall." (Why didn't I ask her sooner?) She's right. The nearest dance hall is in Ripon, which means a man must pay not only for two admissions but for two round-trip train tickets.

Now that I have the idea, I feel like a babe. I haven't any notion how to begin and am eager for your advice.

Your devoted student,

Thomas Barrow


The Lady Mary Talbot

Downton
16 September 1926

Dear Edith,

No, I never had a craving for malt vinegar over cake, but I did have one I indulged for raspberry sauce over kippers. If Henry didn't leave me when he saw me eating that concoction, then our marriage must be solid.

I've enclosed some photos of George and Katherine. You must have Bertie buy you a camera for Christmas. You'll have such fun taking pictures of Marigold and the new baby.

I'm curious to know what experience you're having with your servants. It seems that working in service on an important estate is not considered the advantage it once was. Barrow asked me today for permission to operate a business outside the Abbey as long as it didn't interfere with his duties. I was flabbergasted. And frankly, I was surprised that he asked my permission and didn't operate it on the q.t. I was surprised even more when I gave him my permission.

I was swayed by Barrow's eloquent words on the subject. He understood that no matter my loyalty to those who have served the household for years, my first loyalty was to George and Katherine. He felt no bitterness because he believed that was as it should be. He asked if I would deny him the right to prepare himself for the day when I might be forced to choose between loyalties. What could I say?

I was so stunned by the conversation that I didn't think to ask him the nature of the business. What do you suppose he's conjured up in that mind of his?

Your sister,

Mary


Loreto Santarelli

Savoy Hotel
20 September 1926

My Dear Barrow,

You've made a start. Don't overdo. You don't need to build a dance hall and create a permanent business on your first attempt. Rent a space and hold one dance. Tie it to some special promotion or local event to help you build interest and momentum. It doesn't have to be a grand ball. A successful, profitable tea dance would be sufficient.

Set simple goals:

1. Good attendance;

2. A satisfied clientele who look forward to your next dance;

3. A profit (even a small one).

Begin scouting locations and bands and looking for that special promotion.

Your servant,

Loreto Santarelli


Ivor Novello

Blackpool
27 September 1926

Darling,

You worry too much! Bobbie and I ask business favours of our friends, and vice versa, all the time. The answer is either yes or no, but no one feels ill-used.

I would be honoured to be a part of your first business venture. I could do a personal appearance on 23 October before the company plays Hull. Will that give you enough time to prepare? We're all excited for you.

I'm terribly curious to meet your friend, Minnie. Ask her to save me a dance!

I'll see you soon!

Much love,

City Mouse