CHAPTER 51: PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE - OCTOBER 1926
Downton Village Hall
Dance To-night.
Personal Appearance by
IVOR NOVELLO
Learners 7:30-8 ~ Dancing 8-12 ~ Admission 2/6
Refreshments Available at Moderate Prices ~ Tea and Biscuits Free
Evening Dress Not Essential
Ivor Novello
Hull
October 25, 1926
My Darling Minnie,
I want to thank you for your exuberant letter. I asked you to dance five times because you were the best dancer. It's no wonder Thomas selected you to do the teaching. I peeked at you during the lesson from the little privacy tent Thomas set up for me. I decided then and there that I would partner you for as many dances as you would allow.
I believe Thomas was quite jealous, but sadly for me, there was no reason. He's a better dancer than I and has those ridiculously long legs. The two of you were a delicious couple - like Fred and Adele.
Affectionately,
Ivor Novello
Ivor Novello
Hull
October 25, 1926
Darling,
How often have I told you that you worry too much? I'm certain no one saw me slip out yesterday morning. It was 4 a.m.! I was relieved that Morgan waited for me, even if he was a bit irate. I'll make it up to him.
Will you stop worrying long enough for me to congratulate you? CONGRATULATIONS! You made a profit. It doesn't matter how much. Not losing money on your first effort is an excellent beginning.
I don't want to hear you say again that you were successful only because of me! Would you say that Santarelli is successful only because of his chef? Santarelli sets the scene for his chef to shine, and you set the scene Saturday night for me to shine. You were the one who danced so sweetly with every wallflower. I didn't see one disappointed face all night.
I'm done scolding.
I adore your darling Minnie! I can see why you enjoy her company. Clearly, Tom Branson enjoyed her company too. I thought it odd that he attended unaccompanied. I do believe he was sent as a spy by your Lady Mary. Perhaps she was concerned about the respectability of your event. Don't fret! He can't have anything negative to report.
Darling, it meant a great deal to be with you again. How dear you are to me. Absence truly does make my heart grow fonder.
Love,
Your City Mouse
