Olive’s diary Nov 15th 1918

All preparing for this foolish fancy dress ball on the 20th. Griffiths said I looked after him like a King! He carried my coal home singing Welsh songs. Slate quarry worker from Llanllyfni in North Wales

Olive’s diary 20th November 1918

Fancy dress affair at Beaucroft Hospital. I remained on duty and put in 16 hot water bottles and got supper. The dresses were far beyond my expectation. Nurse Howell in an old costume got 1st prize, Florence helped her to dress. Stubbs as a London cabby got the men’s 1st prize.

Lady Mary’s diary 1.1.1919

Went to village Fancy Dress Ball in hall. Met my friends, tradesmen and cook disguised beyond recognition. Danced Lancers with Mr Kit in uniform. Much amused. (public much pleased) Read précis for this last awful and wonderful year. Victory and Peace.

Jan 2nd 1919 To Mrs Pinney’s party at hall. Children of all ages from Mr Kit (75) with whom I danced Pas-de-quatre; some 50 of them, also Lady Peto, Pinney and her children. Gertrude in blue looking pretty, most of them in white w floating hair. Berlin threatened by Bolshivism “the Chickens indeed coming home to roost.”

Lady Mary’s diary Sat 11 Jan 1919

Small fancy dress party Doreen J’s, she in Egyptian dress, BVJ as cook. I took the great trouble of getting into my Queen Katherine of Aragon black velvet dress, tiara and veil. DVJ’s eyes gleaming green, excited. Supper and games