4th January 2004.

Sorry to hear that you do not know the Manor owners.  I know in England there has been much more of class structure, than here in the North American social melting pot, I suppose because there was no middle class in England for a 1000 years. 

Peta Young was very hospitable toward me.  Although, being friendly, and my own age, 38, at that time in 1977, she did say she was not involved in the church nor its women's auxilliary, because she did not want the Manor to become a place for tea parties and fundraisers. 

She may have not wanted to socialize with those beneath her, but like some women she may have not liked other women generally.  I will never know. 

During the first night of my visit to Findon just after attending evensong at the church, and being enthralled with the place, a parishioner, at the suggestion of the Warden, took me to the house.  The sons showed me around who knew this elderly spinster Professor's daughter - a recent Findon retiree. 

The next day at the house before noon I met with Peta who gave a drink.  A nice little dog entered the sitting room which I remarked on and she said I should have been there 2 weeks ago when Prince Charles was there and gave her the dog.  He drank out of the stem ware glass I was holding.  She said Findon was on his duty trip list because of the horses.  I would have like to have met this distant relative. 

Only recently he was on televison with his good diction and accent showing his grandfathers clocks.  Being a strong monarchist like most Canadians, I still respect him and regret years later the divorce and whole lady Diana saga. 

Peta politely dismissed the spinster who she said was a teatottler before giving me the drink.  She then donned a cape and took me down to the pub, on the north corner of the house laneway and main town street where I was staying and ordered drinks on the house for the few there.  That was one the most exciting days and nights I had ever spent. 

Two nights later of my 4 day stay it was reported all over the area that I was there and people came to the pub to meet me and awed at my North American accent. 

A lady waitress from the pub next door walked up to me and said, "Mr. Margesson, you have ruined our business, everyone is here. I was very apologetic and complied with her request to have a beer next door to help her.

Richard Somerset Margesson BA, Toronto, Canada.

3rd August 2006

Hi Valerie!

Milestone

On July 31, 2006 I spoke on the phone with my uncle, Robert John Margesson, of Victoria British Columbia Canada, who celebrated his 90th birthday. He is very alert and we had a good conversation. He went out to a coffee shop with his son, Hugh, visiting from California.

I entered Google on the internet, then my name, and there is a heading which leads into what you published about my visit to Findon.

Are you still adding to the anthology?

I turned 65 July 8th but feel and look youthful despite dreading that landmark date.

Regards,

Richard Somerset Margesson,
Toronto, Canada.